Vizslandobes, I love it when I find a suggestion that helps! When Rosie freaked out at noises outside, I used to speak to her in a more animated reassuring voice. Last night, I thought about the tone you said you used about the trash cans, and when Rosie got upset at a noise outside, I just looked at the window and said casually, "no biggie." I couldn't believe it, she actually looked at me and calmed right down. I did the same thing today when she got upset about a video (of a vizsla) I was watching. I think they must be incredible readers of body language. I'll have to keep trying that "cool and casual" attitude.