Noise phobias can be especially challenging, says Becker, because the anxiety may snowball. Maybe it starts with fireworks on the Fourth of July, for example; then the dog becomes afraid of loud bangs on TV, honking horns, the microwave.
1- Consult a trainer
In some cases, you can "train the dog out of having the reaction in the first place," says San Diego-based veterinarian Jessica Vogelsang. The traditional approach, she says, is desensitization, which entails gradually introducing your dog to scary noises while offering him rewards. Rewiring your pooch’s associations is a long-term solution. The catch? It’s a lot of work, and your best bet is to hire a trainer who specializes in the technique, says Vogelsang.
2- Play music
Vogelsang recommends a series of albums called Through a Dog's Ear. "[The music] is specifically composed to decrease a dog's stress response," she explains. If your pup is freaked out, put her in a dark room (ideally with no windows), and play one of these CDs. You can also do this in advance of a known trigger: Say you're planning a road trip, or a party at your house. Try this music therapy in the day or two leading up to the stressful event. (Regular classical music may help as well.)
3- Get rid of static
You may notice that your dog gets anxious prior to a storm. That’s because he's triggered by the buildup of static electricity in the air, explains Becker; and in response, he may hide in the closet, bathroom, or basement. One possible remedy: “Take an unscented dryer sheet and wipe down the trunk of your dog’s body," suggests Becker. "About half [of dogs] won’t have a problem with the storm."
4- Try a Thundershirt
The Thundershirt is a compression garment designed to reduce fear in dogs. "It's like swaddling a baby for comfort," says Becker, "like a comforting hug." The company says that the vest (also available for cats) can help with a range of phobias, and works for about 80% of pets.
5- Use pheromones
When a mama dog nurses her puppies, she releases a calming pheromone that encourages them to lay down quietly. You can buy a synthetic version of that pheromone to help your dog relax at any age, says Becker, who suggests asking your vet for a recommendation. He likes a company called Adaptil, which sells both a collar and a diffuser.
6- Give your dog a chill pill
Becker often recommends a supplement called Zylkene, which packs a calming milk protein. Another option: chews that contain the green tea extract L-Theanine, available at many pet stories.
7- Talk to your vet about medication
If the strategies above don't relieve your dog's anxiety, it may be worth trying a prescription med like Xanex or the new non-sedating drug Sileo. According its manufacturer, Sileo works by blocking the fear chemical norephinephrine to dampen a dog's anxiety response.
This article originally appeared on health.com.
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