Does Your Dog Suffer from Noise Phobia? Is CBD a Possible Solution?

Many dog owners have seen firsthand their furry companions trembling, hiding, or behaving anxiously during thunderstorms, fireworks, or other loud noises. This fear of loud noises, known as “noise phobia” or “noise aversion”, can vastly distress dogs and impact their overall well-being. In the last several years, there has been growing interest in using cannabidiol (CBD) as a potential natural solution, in order to help ease canines during stressful situations. So, we will be exploring the reasons behind your dog’s fear of loud noises and even cover what CBD might be able to offer.

What Exactly is Noise Phobia?

Noise phobia is a condition where an individual has an excessive and irrational fear of loud sounds. It's a form of anxiety disorder that can be triggered by a variety of noises. This phobia can even cause significant distress and impair the ability to function normally in daily life. The exact cause of noise phobia is not entirely clear, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition, lack of early exposure to a variety of sounds, and traumatic experiences associated with loud noises. Some breeds of dogs may be more prone to developing noise phobias than others.

Why Do Dogs Suffer from Noise Phobia?

Dogs can suffer from noise phobia due to a variety of reasons, and it's a relatively common issue amongst canines.

Factor #1: Lack of Early Exposure

Puppies that aren't exposed to a variety of sounds during their critical socialization period (between 3 to 14 weeks of age) may become fearful of noises later in life.

Factor #2: Genetics and Breed Predisposition

Certain breeds are more prone to developing noise phobias. For example, herding breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds often exhibit higher sensitivity to sounds.

Factor #3: Traumatic Experiences

A traumatic event associated with loud noise(s) can lead to a long-lasting phobia. For instance, a dog that has been scared by a loud thunderstorm may develop a persistent fear of storms or similar loud noises.

Factor #4: General Anxiety Disorders

Dogs with general anxiety disorders are more likely to develop specific phobias, including noise phobia.

Factor #5: Age-Related Changes

As dogs age, they may develop hearing loss or cognitive decline, which can alter their response to sounds and potentially lead to increased anxiety or fear.

Factor #6: Lack of Control

Animals, including dogs, can become more fearful if they feel they have no control over a scary situation. Loud, unpredictable noises like fireworks or thunderstorms can exacerbate this feeling.

Factor #7: Owner Behavior

Sometimes, the way an owner reacts to a dog's fear can inadvertently reinforce the phobia. For example, overly comforting a dog during a noisy event may be perceived as a reward for fearful behavior.

Factor #8: Physical Health Issues

Occasionally, underlying health issues can contribute to a heightened response to noise. For example, a dog with ear pain may be more sensitive to sound.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Noise Phobia in Dogs?

The signs of noise phobia can vary from dog to dog, but these are usually some common behaviors and symptoms to watch out for:

1. Pacing or Restlessness: A dog might pace around the house or seem unable to settle in one place when they hear noises that scare them.
2. Shaking or Trembling: This is a common sign of fear in dogs. Again, they might shake uncontrollably during a thunderstorm, fireworks, or other loud events.
3. Hiding or Escaping: Many dogs with noise phobia will seek shelter in a safe place, such as under furniture (couch, table or bed), in a bathroom, in a crate, or they may attempt to escape from the house or yard in order to get away from the noise(s).
4. Whining or Barking: Vocalizing more than usual can be a sign of distress in response to loud noises.
5. Drooling or Panting: These can be indicators of anxiety or stress in dogs.
6. Refusing to Eat: Some dogs might lose their appetite or refuse to eat when they are scared.
7. Destructive Behavior: In their panic, some dogs might chew on furniture, dig at doors or carpets, or once again, try to escape from the house.
8. Clinginess or Seeking Comfort: Your dog might become unusually clingy and might follow you around more than usual or demand more attention.
9. Unusual Bathroom Habits: Fear can lead to accidents indoors, even in dogs that are normally house-trained.
10. Physiological Changes: Increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and dilated pupils are also common physiological responses to fear and anxiety.

How is Noise Phobia for Dogs Treated?

Treatment for noise phobia often involves a combination of behavioral therapy, such as desensitization and counterconditioning, and sometimes medication to help reduce anxiety. It's important to approach treatment gently and patiently, as forcing an animal to confront their fears too quickly can worsen the phobia. Owners are encouraged to consult with a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist for the most effective treatment strategies.

What About CBD for a Dog’s Noise Phobia?

Some pet owners report that cannabidiol can help calm their dogs, potentially reducing anxiety-related behaviors caused by loud noises. You see, cannabidiol is believed to interact with a dog's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which can influence mood and stress levels.

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties could potentially alleviate any physical discomfort caused by stress or anxiety. In fact, dogs with noise phobia may experience muscle tension, headaches, or gastrointestinal issues, which CBD might help manage.

Keep in mind, too, that unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-psychoactive and does not induce a "high" in canines. CBD-infused products for pets are specifically formulated to ensure they contain negligible levels of THC.

Note: The scientific research on CBD for dogs is still in the early stages. And while there have been studies on the use of CBD for issues like pain and epilepsy in dogs, research specifically focusing on noise phobia is limited. This means there's a lack of concrete evidence to conclusively state its effectiveness for this specific issue, so it’s best to talk to your veterinarian first, before going this route.

How to Select and Administer CBD to Your Pup

Before getting into the basic steps for selecting and administering CBD to your pup, we do need to mention that, while cannabidiol is generally considered safe for dogs, it's not a cure-all and may not be suitable for every pet. Always use CBD as part of a broader wellness plan tailored to your dog's individual needs. Also, administering CBD to your pup requires careful consideration and often, guidance from a veterinarian, as once again, they can advise whether this cannabinoid is appropriate for your dog's condition and what dosage to start with.

Step #1: Choose the Right Product

Look for CBD products specifically formulated for dogs. Ensure the product is high quality and from a reputable source. It should have a certificate of analysis (COA) showing the amount of cannabidiol and confirming it's free from harmful levels of contaminants. At The Calm Leaf, we carry CBD pet products that have these traits.

Step #2: Choose the Best Administration Method

Canine-based CBD products comes in various product types/delivery methods, such as tinctures, treats, or topicals. Some dogs may prefer treats, while others might better absorb oil placed directly in their mouth or on their food.

Step #3: Select the Proper Dose

Begin with a low dose and observe your dog's response. The correct dosage can vary based on the dog's size, age, and overall health. A general guideline is to start with 1-2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight.

Step #4: Monitor Your Dog's Response

Keep an eye on how your dog reacts to the CBD. Look for signs of positive effects (like reduced anxiety or pain relief) and any adverse reactions.

Step #5: Adjust Dosage as Needed

Depending on your dog's reaction, you may need to adjust the dosage.

• If you don't see any improvement after a week, you might increase the dose slightly.
• If there are adverse effects, reduce the dose or stop the CBD.

Bottom Line: There are Ways/Techniques to Help Your Dog Deal with Their Noise Phobia, Including the Use of CBD it Seems!

Understanding the cause of a dog's noise phobia is important for addressing the issue effectively. Treatment often involves desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques, and in some cases, the help of a veterinary behaviorist or the use of anti-anxiety medications may be necessary. It's crucial for dog owners to recognize the signs of noise phobia and seek appropriate help, as prolonged fear and anxiety can significantly impact a dog's quality of life.

If given the greenlight to do so, properly administer CBD to them in an attempt to calm them down. And, in fact, for the best results, administer CBD to your dog at the same times each day, while also documenting your dog’s response to CBD, including dosage and any changes in symptoms, as this can be helpful for ongoing treatment adjustments. Don’t forget though, regularly discuss your dog’s progress with your veterinarian, especially if you're using CBD to manage a specific health condition.