Noise aversion in dogs describes a true phobia (mental disorder) triggered by a particular noise or loud noises in general. This is more than the reaction of a dog who “doesn’t like” the triggering sound and affects quality of life for the dog and pet parents.
- The cause of noise aversion is unknown, although there are factors that can increase the chance of development
- There are many possible behavioral responses to stimuli that indicate noise aversion (whining, pacing, barking, aggression, bolting through windows/doors)
- These symptoms are involuntary and can occur for hours after the stimulus
- High levels of panic may result in self-harm, property damage, or harm to others
- Treatment plans differ for each case and include avoiding or masking the stimulus, creating a safe space to hide, medication, desensitization, counterconditioning, or using items to lessen anxiety
A closer look: Noise Aversion in Dogs
As noise aversion is common, there is a wide range of intensity reported. In mild cases dogs display a light fear response, for example trembling or whining and recover as soon as the trigger stops. In severe cases intense panic incites dramatic symptoms lasting for days after the trigger stops. Severely affected dogs are not able to live a normal life without treatment.
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Risk factors
Noise aversion is common in dogs, affecting approximately 1 in 3 dogs, and can be extremely distressing. In extreme cases the fear may also be triggered by specific places, objects, people, or other stimuli related to the noises and may last well beyond the end of exposure to the stimulation. The most common noise averse phobia triggers in dogs are storms, fireworks, and gunshots.
Noise aversion can be managed and lessened, but rarely goes away completely.
Possible causes
The exact cause of noise aversion is not known. Many factors may contribute to a dog developing noise aversion, including:
- Genetic predisposition
- A traumatic experience associated with a specific noise
- Lack of early socialization or exposure to stimuli
- Vulnerability due to underlying illness
- Changing health and brain chemistry in an aging or elderly dog, causing anxieties to develop
Main symptoms
Dogs indicate their fear and anxiety when suffering from phobias like noise aversion in many different ways.
Testing and diagnosis
There is no specific diagnostic test for noise aversion. Diagnosis is usually based on the presence of typical symptoms. A thorough physical examination and basic blood tests are indicated prior to starting treatment for noise aversion in order to rule out other underlying medical problems. These tests will also indicate if there are any limitations on therapeutic options for the individual dog.
Steps to Recovery
Once present in a dog, noise aversion is rarely cured completely. The goal of treatment is to decrease the symptoms and improve the quality of life for the dog.
A combination of environmental management, behavior modification, and medication may be recommended to treat noise aversion. In severe cases, all three approaches are the most effective.
Environmental management is the process of reducing the dog’s exposure to the trigger. Whenever possible, triggering noises are simply avoided. When avoidance isn’t possible, the use of other sounds (music, white noise, etc.) to drown out the sound of the stimulus is often helpful. Some dogs successfully wear ear muffs to reduce exposure to triggering noises. Some noise triggers have associated visual cues, so avoiding or masking those is also recommended, where applicable.
Another aspect of environmental management includes establishing a safe space for the dog to hide during an episode. The safe space can be any number of places, including a crate, bathroom, or closet with no outdoor windows. Swaddling a dog in a calming wrap may also help him cope with his fear.
Behavior modification utilizes two primary strategies: desensitization and counterconditioning. Desensitization aims to acclimate an animal to the stimulus. It is achieved by repeatedly exposing the dog to the stimulus at low volume, raising the volume slowly until they can experience the stimulus at full volume without fear. Counterconditioning is changing the emotions associated with the noise, repeatedly using positive experiences or emotions when the noise is occurring to rewrite the automatic response. Desensitization and counterconditioning are best when used together. It is best to consult a vet and certified behaviorist before attempting to use behavior modification to treat noise aversion in a dog so the therapeutic experience does not increase the dog’s anxiety.
Medication for noise aversion falls into two categories: short-acting medications that are given when exposure to the noise trigger is expected, and long-term medications used in an effort to decrease overall anxiety.
Short-acting medications are most effective when administered before an expected event to diminish fear or anxiety. Dexmedetomidine (brand name Sileo) is one example of a short-acting medication. As the first pharmaceutical noise aversion treatment approved by the FDA, it comes in the form of a gel applied along the gums.
Long-acting medications are used in some dogs with noise aversion to try to decrease overall anxiety levels. These are typically given orally every day, and may be supplemented with as-needed use of short-acting medications.
Behavioral medicine is a rapidly developing veterinary specialty, and board-certified veterinary behaviorists can guide pet parents through the process of determining the best pharmaceutical plan for each individual dog.
Prevention
Noise aversion is not contagious, but an anxious dog may lead to increased anxiety in other dogs.
Is Noise Aversion in Dogs common?
Yes, noise aversion affects approximately 1 in 3 dogs.
Typical Treatment
Noise aversion is usually treated with a combination of anti anxiety medication, behavior modification, and environmental management.
