Training Guide

What is sound desensitization?

Sound desensitization is a gradual process of exposing your dog to a trigger sound (like a doorbell, thunder, or fireworks) at very low volume, then slowly increasing the volume over days and weeks. The goal is for your dog to learn that the sound is nothing to worry about.

This technique is recommended by veterinary behaviorists and professional dog trainers as one of the most effective ways to reduce sound-related fear and reactivity.

Why counterconditioning matters

Desensitization works best when paired with counterconditioning — giving your dog something positive (like a high-value treat) when the trigger sound plays. This helps your dog build a positive association with the sound instead of a fearful one.

This is why SoundSettle includes an owner-alert chime — a brief tone that plays before each trigger. When you hear the chime, get a treat ready. If your dog stays calm when the trigger plays, reward them immediately.

How to use SoundSettle

1. Choose a trigger sound that your dog reacts to — start with the mildest one if there are multiple.
2. Configure your session — start with shorter sessions (5–10 minutes) and fewer triggers (3–5).
3. Download the MP3 and play it on your preferred device or speaker.
4. Start at very low volume — so low that your dog barely notices the sound. This is the most important step.
5. Stay present with treats. When you hear the chime, prepare a treat. If your dog stays calm when the trigger plays, reward immediately.
6. Gradually increase volume over multiple sessions across days and weeks. Only increase when your dog is consistently calm at the current level.

Recommended training protocol

Speaker recommendations

For thunder and firework sounds, use an external Bluetooth speaker or home sound system. Phone and tablet speakers typically can't reproduce frequencies below 400 Hz — meaning the low rumble that makes thunder and fireworks scary for dogs simply won't play through phone speakers.

Doorbell, knocking, and siren sounds work fine through phone speakers since they are mostly in the higher frequency range.

When to stop

• If your dog shows signs of strong fear (trembling, hiding, panting, trying to escape), stop the session immediately.
• Lower the volume significantly for the next session.
• Always end sessions on a positive note when possible.
• Multiple short, successful sessions are better than one long, stressful session.