Sudden fear of the dark
 Could it be shadows or reflections in the windows? We live on a very quiet street, little traffic and no street lights so it is very dark at night. But its been very dark at night for the two years she's been here! Any clues?  |
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| It could be any number of things. Shadows are a possibility, but I wonder if there's some critter that is outside the house making some sort of noise that she hears. If it's a sudden onset, and at the same time (when it gets dark) I wouldn't be surprised if something's rustling outside and bothering her. She can hear lots that you can't. Or maybe the scent of something nocturnal is catching her attention. A passing skunk perhaps? I'd try to ignore it (don't respond to her fear) and try to redirect her. Maybe play a favourite game or give her a treat to munch on. If it is a critter it probably won't last too long. How does she handle going outside after dark? |
| I would second the "critter" idea. Your pup is probably smelling something outside that is making her a bit anxious. Tracie's recommendation of redirecting the anxiety into something positive is a great idea. Laurie and Oscar |
| Funny thing is she will gladly go out with her bigger brother to run and play in the dark. That doesn't happen too often as I don't like them running when I can't see them or anything that might bt in their way. But while she is in the house, this fearful behavior starts. We don't have skunks here. But maybe a possum or racoon? Tonight I am going to try leaving the back porch light on and the inside light on shadows are not as clear. By the way, do dogs see well in the dark? Or do they see like us, not as great - at least I don't see as good in the dark! |
| I would leave a radio on low just to mask any noise |
| Dogs do have much better night vision than humans. Their retinas are dominated by rods, as opposed to cones, which helps them to see in low light. Laurie and Oscar |
| We may have found the culprit! We live on the water and there is a bar/restaurant across the water that has a live band at night. If the wind blows a certain way, we hear the music and its very loud. Even for humans. Sometimes we hear nothing. Other nights its a loud thumping sound. I think she hears it and it scares her.... I have found putting the oven overhead on does help...A few more weeks and it will be cold and no more problems...That fear is so pathetic to see  |
| Maybe the thumping bass is a bit like thunder in the distance; lots of thunder. That would be scary. |
| Moe is eight months old and never has had any problems until recently going down the steps in the dark. A few nights ago he would bark and it was a sruggle to get him down the steps. Last night we discovered the problem...toads. a family of toads has taken up residence under our grill.( I still dont understand the fear when he was a pup he ATE toads) |
Hey MoesMOm, I am afraid of Toads as well! Been known to kiss a few too in my younger years! Ha ha  Funny how things they played with when they were pups suddenly become scary when they're older! |
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