Tuesday Training Byte: Helping your dog calm down

Many dogs go missing during fireworks. With Independence Day just a few days away, I am well aware that many dogs are very anxious when they hear loud noises like thunder, gun fire, or fireworks. It is helpful to prepare in advance, but sometimes that is not possible. We need to keep our dogs inside and secure at least.

Here are some things you can do at home to help: Pheromones can naturally help calm a dog. You can purchase a plug in spray or buy a collar. I recommend the brand Calmicollar. Leave your dog in a crate with soothing music playing. Cover all but the front of the crate. Remember, dogs are den animals and love to hide in darker, confined spaces for safety. Providing this safe space at home can help. Consider a lick mat or frozen kong toy with peanut butter to leave in their crate. Avoid making a big deal out of your dog's fear. Don't continually pet, soothe, or hold him. Your dog needs to learn he can be safe even in your absence.

Other training can be used to deal with situations that cause your dog to get over aroused, such as people at your front dog or kids playing loudly or running. Remember, dog will pick up on your emotions! This is why it is so important to not yell at your dog that is over excited as it will make matters worse. Choose the word you wish to use. "Settle" and "Chill" are most common, just be consistent. I had a dog that was intimidating and pushy to visitors, so I trained him to go to the bedroom and wait whenever people came over. His command was "bedroom". For my other dogs, I trained them to go to their beds/mats. Calm behavior would get lots of rewards like those mentioned above and calm praise. Practice doing this before the fireworks start. Have fun, be safe, and happy training!