Why does my dog hide under the table when I cook?

Your dog likely hides under the table when you cook due to sensory overload or fear. Dogs have incredibly sensitive senses, and the kitchen during cooking is a hotspot for triggers. The most common reasons include:

1. High-Frequency Noises: Kitchen appliances emit high-pitched beeps (microwaves, ovens, timers) that can be painful or anxiety-inducing for dogs. Clanging pots and pans also startle them.
2. The Dreaded Smoke Alarm: If your smoke detector has gone off while cooking in the past, your dog may associate the kitchen smells or cooking sounds with that terrifying, ultra-loud alarm.
3. Overwhelming Smells: Strong spices, citrus, onions, or smoke can irritate a dog's highly sensitive olfactory system, driving them to seek shelter.
4. Seeking a "Den": Under the table is a covered, secure space. When stressed, dogs instinctively seek out den-like environments where they feel protected from threats.

To help your dog, try to identify their specific trigger. If it is noise, work on counter-conditioning by offering high-value treats when appliances beep. If it is smell or smoke, use exhaust fans and keep the kitchen well-ventilated.