Noise sensitivity in dogs and the link to pain
Doggy Day Care at the Willows
As we move into autumn, it’s that time of year when our canine companions can become distressed by seasonal noises, such as Bonfire Night fireworks. Did you know there’s a link between noise sensitivity in dogs and pain? Noise fears can be extremely distressing for both your pet and your family, who often feel helpless in knowing how to act. However, there are certain things you can do to reduce their reaction to noises and their suffering.
Why is my dog so reactive to noises?
Noise sensitivity is a common behavioural issue in dogs. It’s thought that up to half of dogs show some fear or anxiety in response to loud noises like fireworks, thunderstorms, gunshots or sudden household sounds. Common reactions include panting, shaking, hiding, or trying to escape. In more extreme responses to noise, dogs might even defecate or vomit.
There are a few possible causes for noise sensitivity in dogs including genetics, poor socialisation, traumatic experiences, underlying health conditions, and a lack of exposure.
What’s the connection between noise sensitivity and pain?
The definition of pain is “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage”. Pain can be experienced with or without physical damage to the body and is subjective and unique to every dog. Recent research shows a clear link between noise sensitivity and underlying pain, especially dogs with musculoskeletal pain.
Noises can cause dogs with chronic pain to tense their muscles, leading to discomfort, which then becomes associated with the sound itself. As a result, noise sensitivity can trigger avoidance and anxiety in dogs. Always get advice from your vet if you have any concerns.
How do I desensitise my dog to noises?
Resolving a fear-based noise reaction will enhance the overall welfare of your dog by removing a source of chronic distress and discomfort. Desensitisation is a type of behavioural therapy that can help to improve your dog’s noise sensitivity. This approach could take a couple of months or longer to see results, depending on the severity and whether they have a health condition. Read Our guide to firework training for dogs.
Studies show that dogs with noise aversion and pain tend to develop sensitivity later in life than those without pain. Noise fears can worsen over time if left untreated and can exacerbate any underlying pain. See our blog Spotting the signs of when your dog is in pain.
Can dog socialisation help with a dog’s fear of noise?
Yes, socialisation is a useful method for managing a dog’s fear of noise and involves gradually exposing them to new experiences and sounds. It’s an important part of a puppy’s development. When it comes to socialisation, one of the best ways to help your dog is to arrange regular visits to a doggy daycare centre. They will get used to being around other dogs, while enjoying mental stimulation and physical exercise through an array of activities.
Visit your local doggy daycare centre
At Doggy Daycare at the Willows, we have a fully air conditioned and heated barn for dogs including a playroom and rest area. Our fully trained Doggy Daycare Assistants will help to build your dog’s confidence by socialising your furry friend with dogs of a similar size and temperament. Our aim is to both improve and enhance your canine companion’s wellbeing.
Why not arrange a visit to our doggy daycare? Get in touch for a chat with our team.
Thank you for reading our latest blog, Noise sensitivity in dogs and the link to pain.
Sources:
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00017/full
https://www.pure.ed.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/294002222/29346_Noise_sensitivity_editorial_Vet_Record_final.pdf
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/fear-of-noises-and-places-in-dogs
https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/professionals/vet-clinics/resources/how-pain-affects-behaviour
https://www.vettimes.com/news/vets/small-animal-vets/prevalence-and-impact-of-sound-sensitivity-in-dogs
https://wagwalking.com/condition/noise-sensitivities