Many pets are afraid of loud noises, but new research has found that four in five dogs fear everyday household appliances such as vacuums, blenders and hairdryers.
According to the study conducted by comparethemarket.com, nearly two in five dogs (38%) will leave the room until the appliance has been switched off, while one in five (22%) will hide under a table or sofa in angst.
Dogs often feel fearful around certain objects because of the unpredictable noises they make, with the study finding these appliances can make dogs shake (21%), excessively bark (21%), chew (21%), and cry or whine (20%). Meanwhile, one in 12 dogs (8%) were found to pant in response to certain household appliances.
"As our research highlights, one in five dogs misbehave and can become destructive in response to various common household appliances, something many pooch parents will have experienced," Chris King, head of home insurance at comparethemarket.com, says.
"Ultimately, it's inevitable that your dog is going to be near these items daily, so owners must try to ease their worries and avoid any potential accidents or damages that may arise due to them being frightened."
6 household appliances dogs fear the most
- Vacuum cleaners (45%)
- Hairdryer (24%)
- Lawnmower (21%)
- Washing machine (15%)
- Food blender (13%)
- Sweeping brush (10%)
Wondering how to help your dog if they are feeling fearful at home? According to veterinarian consultant Dr Heather Venkat, fear-related accidents are not uncommon but can be treated.
Some of the ways you can ease the nerves in your pup include:
1. Giving them space to move away from the noise. If your pup leaves the room when you are vacuuming, then let them do so.
2. Place your dog in a different room so they are less likely to feel fearful when you are using the loud appliance.
3. Play calming music to try to drown out the loud noise. You may also try giving them a stimulating toy to distract them from the appliance.
4. Pairing the noise with a treat also helps the puppy associate the noise with something positive.
Waterproof dog coats: 13 gorgeous styles to keep your pup cosy and dry
Keep your pups snug and dry with this bright red raincoat from Joules. A little rain never stopped the fun and games!
In sleek navy, this waterproof comfort coat has a standup collar and adjustable fastening to keep your pup secure. Simply pop your pup in the coat and head out for a refreshing walk.
In a mustard hue, this lovely raincoat has a striped lining, button trims and cord-and-leather toggles to stay secure on your pup. As well as being water-resistant, it's incredibly lightweight making it perfect for spring.
Keep your pup warm and cosy on a winter walk with this fleece-lined winter coat. Thanks to the hole behind the neck, you can easily attach a lead whilst still ensuring your dog is safe from the weather.
With a country-inspired print, this olive green waxed coat has adjustable straps and a back opening for securing a lead or harness.
Great for smaller breeds, this reversible plaid coat has a windproof outer layer and a soft inner layer to keep your furry friend warm all the time. We love the gorgeous red and white print!
Danish Design Blue 2-in-1 Ultimate Dog Coat
Superb for both the winter and warmer months, this breathable 2-in-1 coat has a removable fleece inner lining, waterproof outer shell and a light reflective beading and fastening strap, too.
We love this waxed cotton version of Barbour's best-selling classic dog coat — and we're certain your pup will love it too. Available in a range of sizes, it has an underbody strap and a riptape-fastening neck to ensure a comfortable fit.
Reflective and reversible, this cosy jacket is great for evening walks. It has an inner layer with down cotton, plus is lightweight, splashproof, windproof and snowproof.
READ MORE: Light-up dog collars: 11 styles to keep your pups safe and seen
Hugo & Hudson - Orange & Navy Puffer Jacket
Keep your furry friend cosy with this bright orange puffer jacket. As well as being incredibly warm, it has a high-quality stuffing, zip fastening and can be easily machine washed after a muddy walk.
Got a dachshund? This custom-fit waterproof coat will keep these tiny pups warm in cold, rainy or snowy weather. Plus, the added pop of yellow will help to keep them seen.
With a reflective trim for visibility in low light, this charcoal grey dog jacket is wonderfully both fleece lined and waterproof.
In a stylish hue, this water-repelling dog coat has been made with a reflective trim for nighttime walks and a warm fleece lining.
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Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
