Why are dogs scared of vacuum cleaners? (HELP ME)
The vacuum cleaner is one of the most useful cleaning tools in any home. It sucks up dust, dirt, and debris from floors. It can also clean carpeting and furniture with ease.
But for some dogs, it’s also a scary beast that will have them running for cover! So why are dogs scared of vacuum cleaners? It’s a combination of things.
Vacuum cleaners make loud noises and some of them can be quite scary. They also move in ways dogs don’t expect. They swirl around on the floor and sometimes even come right at them.
Dogs are naturally curious creatures, so they want to investigate anything new. When they approach a vacuum cleaner they may get a nasty shock from the cord or be scared by the loud noise.
Read How Often Should I Vacuum With Pets
How Do I Get My Dog To Not Be Afraid Of The Vacuum?
The best way to keep your dog from being afraid of your vacuum cleaner is to introduce it gradually.
Start by placing the vacuum in an open area where your dog can sniff it.
And without trying to play with the vacuum or chew on any cords. When your dog seems comfortable around it, turn it on briefly and let him hear how loud it is (but don’t let him near any electrical outlets).
The next step is to let your dog see you use it for a few minutes before turning it off. This way your dog can get used to the sight and sound of the vacuum without being scared by how loud or powerful it is.
The final step is to let him walk across the room and touch the vacuum with his nose. If he seems scared or nervous, don’t force him to do it—give him time to get used to it before trying again.
Trying again…
If your dog seems interested in the vacuum but not scared of it, try turning it on again.
If your dog still seems comfortable with the sound, move closer to him and let your dog sniff at it for a few minutes before turning off the vacuum.
Next, let him walk across the room and touch it with his nose again—if he doesn’t seem scared or nervous, try holding out your hand or finger so he can touch them with his nose instead.
If he still seems comfortable with the vacuum and doesn’t seem scared or nervous, try turning it on again. If he doesn’t seem bothered by the sound, move closer to him and let him sniff at it for a few minutes before turning off the vacuum.
Next, let your dog walk across the room and touch it with his nose again—if he doesn’t seem scared or nervous, try holding out your hand or finger. That way he can touch them with his nose instead.
If he still seems comfortable with the vacuum and doesn’t seem scared or nervous, try turning it on again. If he doesn’t seem bothered by the sound, move closer to your dog and let him sniff at it for a few minutes before turning off the vacuum.