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My German Shepherd puppy fears loud sounds. How can I help him cope?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 10 days old | 4 lbs

how do i adapt my dog to sounds like firecrackers' which occurs 1 to 2 times an year on certain festivals? also other occasional sounds like car horns and sirens... and constructions? also he is a freakin german shepherd so he literally react on any and every unfamiliar sound.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on November 4th, 2018

Socialization is key, and that means exposure to everything! Make it a fun game and every time your dog hears or sees something new, praise them and give them a treat when they show interest in it. If he's too scared, move him to a distance where he isn't as startled, and then treat and praise from there until he is more comfortable. If he's very scared, or runs away, taking a break and trying again later is best, as you don't want to force him into it and then turn it into something bad instead of something good. Since Tobi is so young, everything is probably very scary and new right now, and a lot of this will get better with time and practice. I also highly recommend a puppy kindergarten class once he is old enough and vaccinated so that you can practice learning together in a structured environment.

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