England fans may need to take extra care for 1am match

England’s World Cup match against Mexico will have a 1am kick-off on Monday after FIFA reversed its decision to bring it forward by six hours.

However, the early start means dog owners should take extra care, as some pets are sensitive to noise and may be disturbed while they would normally be asleep.

According to PDSA‘s page titled “noise phobias in dogs”, it notes: “Dogs can hear a much broader range of frequencies than humans, so what feels like a quiet, far away noise to you, can be loud and scary for a dog.”

Common noise phobias

A dog can be afraid of almost any noise, but common triggers include:

• Fireworks
• Thunderstorms
• Vacuum cleaners
• Cars
• Bangs
• Beeping
• Hairdryers

Some dogs may be disturbed by everyday loud noises, such as TVs and shouting. During a goal, cheering, yelling and banging on tables can be overwhelming. Even car doors slamming or groups of people arriving to watch the match could trigger a dog’s noise phobia.

Experts at Dogs Trust suggest that younger dogs could be more at risk of being scared, especially if they haven’t been exposed to certain noises. It explains: “Your puppy needs to experience a range of household noises.

“This includes washing machines, vacuum cleaners, doorbells, telephones, radio or TV, and food mixers. In most homes, this will happen naturally. But if there are particular noises they are unlikely to experience, then you should use recordings of these sounds.”

What are the signs and symptoms of noise phobia in dogs?

Some of the most common symptoms of noise phobia include:

• Looking scared (showing the whites of their eyes, tucking their tail away)
• Tremors
• Cowering down or freezing on the spot
• Running from noises
• Hiding
• Becoming uncharacteristically jumpy
• Excessive barking/growling
• Attention seeking
• Destructive behaviour such as digging and chewing
• Toileting in the house

It adds that a dog may develop a noise phobia for several reasons, such as a previous bad experience like being startled by a car or balloon as a puppy, which can have a lasting impact. Dogs that were not exposed to a variety of sounds early in life are also more likely to become fearful of noises they encounter as adults. In some cases, pain can increase sensitivity to sound, so a sudden noise phobia should always be checked by a vet.

My dog is scared of noises. Should I contact my vet?

Yes. PSDA stresses: “An untreated noise phobia is likely to get worse with time, so it’s best to contact your vet as soon as you notice your dog showing any signs of fear.

“Your vet will first check your dog is healthy, not in pain and then discuss the best steps to get them some help. They might recommend seeing an accredited behaviourist.”