References
Abstract
This comprehensive guide delves into the phenomenon of noise-related fear in dogs, a prevalent issue with a significant impact on canine wellbeing. The article explores the intricate relationship between a dog's emotional response to noise and its behavioural expressions, highlighting the complexity of noise-related fear, its clinical manifestations and therapeutic approaches. It emphasises the importance of differentiating fear from anxiety and phobias, as they exhibit distinct characteristics that necessitate separate consideration in both diagnostic and therapeutic contexts. The guide explains how various factors can contribute to the development and progression of noise-related fear in dogs, including genetic predispositions, breed-specific traits and traumatic events related to noise exposure. It also addresses the critical role of veterinary professionals in managing noise-related fear, advocating for informed, proactive approaches in prevention, management and treatment. The guide stresses the importance of early detection and intervention, tailored treatment strategies, and the collaborative involvement of pet owners. Overall, it offers a holistic approach to safeguard the development of noise-related fear in dogs, aimed at improving their behavioural response and overall quality of life.
Noise-related fears are a prevalent problem in dogs and were the highest reported anxiety-related trait in a recent owner survey (Salonen et al, 2020). They reportedly affect up to half of the population of pet dogs (Blackwell et al, 2013; Storengen and Lingaas, 2015; Tiira et al, 2016); however, only a small proportion of these owners seek professional advice to help their pets (Dale et al, 2010; Blackwell et al, 2013; Tiira et al, 2016). For many pet owners, concern relating to noise fears may be centred around specific times of year such as bonfire night and New Year's Eve, as well as other celebrated holidays such as Diwali which are associated with fireworks (Figure 1). Fireworks are often reported within the literature as being the most common triggers for noise fear in dogs alongside fear of gunshots and thunderstorms (Overall et al, 2016). However, this perspective fails to recognise the plethora of other sounds which can contribute to noise fear and the relative ease with which these fears may generalise to a wider spectrum of noise events.
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