March, 2011 Dear Deena, I recently adopted a dog from a rescue in the country and have discovered he is skittish around loud noises. As I live in the middle of the city, how can I acclimatize him to the sounds around? Regards, Derek Dear Derek, I would suggest you take your dog out at night or early in the morning when the streets are quieter, and practice some basic commands like "sit". Try to get him to take a treat from your hand, and if he does than you know he's not that nervous. You need to build this up over a series of a few weeks or months depending on the severity of his fear, and gradually introduce him to busier streets. Anytime he shoes fear regarding a bus or loud truck going by, do not reassure him saying its ok and petting him, instead make fun of the situation so he will realize that you are not afraid so why should he be afraid. Best Deena |
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