My 4-year-old dog is suddenly afraid of fireworks. Is this normal?

Question

Is it normal for a dog to suddenly develop a fear of fireworks at age 4 years old? Pet's info: Dog | Shiba Inu | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 4 months old | 23 lbs

Lauren Kennedy, DVM · Accepted Answer

Dogs can develop a fear or noise-induced anxiety at any age and, unfortunately, the anxiety can get worse as the dog gets older. Many dogs benefit from anti-anxiety medication that can be given right before or during the episode (fireworks, thunder storms etc). If you prefer a non-medical approach I would recommend trying a Thunder Jacket. These can help decrease the stress levels of some dogs. I personally, have a noise-phobic dog. Typically he does well with the Thunder jacket but if there is a severe/long lasting storm we also use an anti-anxiety medication.

My 4-year-old dog is suddenly afraid of fireworks. Is this normal?

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