Research has revealed which appliances our four-legged friends hate the most. And while it's a surprise to no one that the vacuum cleaner is the number-one doggy nemesis, it turns out there's a whole host of household items they don't love being around.
Regularly cleaning your floors and sofas is a dog owner secret to getting rid of pet hair – here a vet shares tips on using cleaners and other appliances without upsetting your dog.
Househould appliances your dog hates the most
A study by Compare The Market (opens in new tab) showed that four in five dogs are scared by at least one household appliance. One in five dogs exhibited 'misbehaviors' caused by these machines, from chewing and chasing them to excessively barking.
- Vacuum cleaner (45%)
- Hairdryer (24%)
- Lawnmower (21%)
- Washing machine (15%)
- Food blender (13%)
- Sweeping brush (10%)
The hairdryer was the second-worst, followed by the lawnmower. According to Compare The Market, 40% of dogs will leave the room until the appliance has been put away or turned off, and 10% of dogs will even pant out of anxiety when appliances like the food blender are on.
Future Homes Digital Editor Hebe Hatton says her one-and-a-half-year-old whippet Willow is always very intrigued in the vacuum cleaner. 'I wouldn't say she hates it, but as soon as I turn it on, she runs in and starts to bite the head,' she says.
'The best way to solve the problem is to offer her a more fun game like a Kong, available at Amazon (opens in new tab)or a cardboard box with a couple of treats in it,' Hebe says. Veterinarian consultant Dr Heather Venkat (opens in new tab) shared some tips with Compare The Market to nip it in the bud.
To prevent dogs from being afraid of appliances when they're puppies, Dr Venkat says pet parents should introduce their dogs to noises at a low volume or far away. Giving your puppy a treat at the same time will also help them to build a positive association with your noisy appliance.
Make sure they can move away from the noise, so they can go and find somewhere they feel more comfortable among your favorite pet-friendly houseplants. If your dog is seriously troubled by noise, consult your vet and ask about anti-anxiety medication.
