My dog is suddenly terrified of all noises. Is this normal with age?

Poor pup! This level of anxiety about noises isn't normal, so I would consider talking to your veterinarian about prescription anti-anxiety medication for him. This could dramatically improve his quality of life, just like treating chronic pain with medication. If your veterinarian isn't well-versed in behavior issues, you could see a veterinary behaviorist instead - you can search for one in your area here: www.dacvb.org In the meantime, there are a few other things you can do that may help. I would suggest getting a white noise machine to help mask noises from the upstairs apartment and keep him from being able to hear every little thing that happens. He might also benefit from a DAP pheromone diffuser and a daily calming supplement like Zylkene or Composure.

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. It is hard to say for sure what the problem is without seeing him myself. There could be an ear infection bothering him or something else with the ears or he is becoming more nervous as he ages with certain noises and things being near his head if his vision is not very good any more. I would recommend having him examined by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps!

I’m sorry to hear that this is going on with Lady. It is common as a dog ages to develop some anxiety disorders. It sounds as if the construction next-door probably precipitated the anxiety issues with Lady. What you are already doing is great and if you feel like it is helpful then I would continue to use the diffusers and supplements as needed. It may also be beneficial to get Lady a ThunderShirt for days you know there will be a lot noise and commotion around the house. If her anxiety is becoming severe and/or she’s beginning to have separation anxiety or restlessness at night you may want to discuss with your Veterinarian and anti-anxiety medication to help her stay calm. These issues are very common in older, geriatric pets so what you’re going through with Lady is very normal. Thanks for reaching out for help. If there’s anything else we can do to help you please let us know. Best of luck. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/thundershirt-heather-gray-dog-anxiety-solution

Shaking can be a sign of anxiety (as with thunderstorms) or could indicate pain and discomfort. I would recommend taking Molly in to be examined by your veterinarian. She likely has some degree of arthritis and this could be causing her discomfort. She may need to be started on a joint supplement and an anti inflammatory drug to help with pain. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

These links may help: https://www.petcoach.co/article/fear-of-thunderstorms-fireworks-and-noise-phobias/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-deal-with-noise-induced-anxiety-in-dogs/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/7-natural-treatments-for-dog-anxiety/ I hope this helps.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like Bear is just a little on edge from his itchy skin, unusual bath, and (I’m guessing) recent vet visit. I wouldn’t worry too much about it. Keep doing your daily walks and training reinforcement and give him a few days. Even if this anxiety persists, it can often be managed with extra exercise and training in dogs of this age and breed. Best wishes to you and Bear!

Poor pup! It sounds like your dog is a fearful girl in general - this can be due to genetics, lack of early socialization, negative early experiences in life, or some combination of all three. Many fearful dogs are afraid of loud noises, and are often more fearful of men because they are physically larger and have louder, deeper voices than women. Generally speaking, a treatment plan for this type of problem would involve managing your dog so that she isn't put in stressful or scary situations as much as possible, as well as working with her to help associate good things (like treats!) with men, noises, and other things that frighten her. Depending on how severe her anxiety is, medication may also be helpful. I would suggest making an appointment with a veterinary behaviorist who can evaluate her in person - he/she can put together a detailed plan to help you work on this problem, and can also prescribe anti-anxiety medication for her if needed. You can search for a board-certified veterinary behaviorist in your area here: www.dacvb.org