Our dogs are like our kids, and we don’t want to see them suffer in any way. When our pooches are clearly scared of something, we try our best to allay their fears or remove that which scares them. But when the source of their terror is the vacuum cleaner, should we give up housekeeping? As with anything which inspires a negative reaction in our dogs, it is important to understand why they are afraid, and help them to cope with and overcome their fear. Scared dogs can become happy dogs with a little patience and training.
We might intuitively understand why the vacuum cleaner scares our dog. But the reasons go deeper than you might originally think.
A dog’s hearing is more sensitive: Dogs have extremely sensitive hearing. Scared dogs may actually be agitated dogs if the sound of the vacuum literally hurts their ears. Loud noises can bother humans, but they can torture dogs. Add to this the fact that the dog can also hear the high pitched noises which we cannot, and the very sight of the vacuum cleaner coming out of the closet can incite panic. Scared dogs may act differently based on their personality – whether whining, barking, or hiding.
A dog’s sense of smell can trigger him: In addition to his hearing being more sensitive, a dog’s sense of smell is also far more acute than ours. When you vacuum, dirt and dust is kicked up and can release many trapped scents. All of the noise combined with a mixture of smells can result in sensory overload, frightening your dog. If you have a dog breed known for tracking or hunting, this may be even more pronounced. When the dog sniffs at the vacuum to identify the scents, the vacuum “sniffs” back, but with a lot of noise and powerful suction.
How Scared Dogs Can Be Trained to Be Brave
If your dog is still a puppy, you can gradually expose him to the vacuum cleaner (as well as any situations which may be frightening.) Turn on the vacuum while petting him, giving him treats, and using a positive tone of voice. Your puppy will soon learn there is nothing to fear.
However, adult dogs may take just a bit more convincing that the loud, suctioning monster in the room is harmless. One great way to train an adult dog who already has instilled fear will require two people to pull off. Have a friend or family member turn on the vacuum a few rooms away, while you love on your dog and give him comfort and praise. As the dog learns to accept the noise from afar, have your accomplice move a room closer and repeat your positive reinforcement. Finally, encourage your dog while the vacuum is turned on in the same room. Because you are with them and apparently unconcerned with the vacuum, they will learn it is not worthy of their attention – or fear.
Scared dogs may react to fireworks, thunderstorms, or vacuum cleaners – but the best response is not to avoid these things, but to teach him that there is nothing to fear. If you need help training your dog to overcome fear or learn better manners, call Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training. We can help with all your canine behavioral challenges.
