It's not just the sound of thunder that scares your dog during a storm.
Unfamiliar loud noises like fireworks, wind, and thunder can certainly upset your dog.
Dogs can also feel the changing barometric pressure and static electricity can build up in their fur.
On top of that, a dog's ear is much more powerful than a human's ear. They can even hear thunder that we cannot hear yet because it's so far away.
In fact, dogs can sense a thunderstorm before even the first drop of rain has fallen.
Dogs are sensitive, and the buildup of changes in air pressure and static electricity, followed by loud noises, can be a recipe for storm anxiety and noise phobia.
There are many ways to learn how to calm dogs during a thunderstorm; you just have to find the one that works for your pooch.
Signs Your Dog Has Thunderstorm Anxiety
Dogs who are scared of thunder or storms may show their anxieties in a variety of ways.
The most common signs of stress in dogs include whining, pacing back and forth, barking, hiding or even urinating on the floor.
If you notice these signs, you should try to help calm your pet and make him feel better.
Depending on the level of your dog's anxiety, you may need to try a few different methods when learning how to calm dogs during thunderstorms.
Likewise, a method that works for one dog may not work for another.
That's why we've put together some tips you can try to see which one works for you!
How To Calm Dogs During A Thunderstorm
Static electricity from the air builds up in your dog's fur during a thunderstorm.
Your dog may receive repetitive shocks during a storm, which will scare them and cause anxiety.
Rub A Dryer Sheet On Your Dog
You can use a dryer sheet to remove the static from your pet's coat.
Rub a dryer sheet through your dog's coat if you know a thunderstorm is coming.
They are specifically made to reduce static in clothing, and they are just as effective on your dog's coat.
If you're worried about the chemicals that dryer sheets are made with, spray water on your dog and rub that through his coat instead.
Buy or Make A DIY Anxiety Wrap
Another easy way to help calm your dog during a thunderstorm is by using an anxiety vest or wrap. You can purchase commercial products, but they can be pricey.
Plus, you don't know for sure if they'll work for your dog.
I made a video recently that shows how to make an easy DIY dog anxiety wrap. I make it with an elastic bandage.
It's cheap, and it only takes about 5 minutes to make.
Use A White Noise machine
If it is the noise from a thunderstorm that bothers your dog (which is most often the case), try using background noise to help reduce or silence the sound of the thunder.
It's been proven in studies that dogs enjoy music, and some sounds can specifically help to calm them down.
White-noise machines work by playing soft noises or sound that drown out noises from outside, which is perfect in this case.
You could also play music for dogs from any device with internet access.
There are many sights, videos, and mp3 downloads available that are made specifically to calm canines.
In fact, dogs like classical music and it can drown out thunder rumbles.
Put Your Dog In A Crate
Sometimes, this works. This gives your dog a place where they can escape what is going on outside.
A scared dog likes a crate because it creates shelter.
Create A Safe Space For Your Dog
When a thunderstorm hits, provide a safe space for your Fido, offer comfort and distractions during the storm, and (most importantly) stay with him.
Try some of these solutions for how to calm a dog during a thunderstorm, and eventually, you'll find something that will help your pet.
Find A Way To Distract Your Dog
Many dogs just need something else to focus on besides the flashing lights and loud sounds outside.
For me, my dog is very food driven so giving her some treats works counteract fearful behavior.
Create A Sound Proof Room For Them
Chances are there is a room or place in the house where it's harder for noises to make it through.
Find a room with no windows and that is insulated from noise and create a safe place for them to lay down and be calm until the storm blows over.
You can pick a dark closet that creates shelter.
Make sure they have a bed with some toys in the room.
Any way you can make them feel safe the better.
Anti-anxiety medication
This is more of a last resort.
When you have tried everything and nothing has worked for dog thunderstorm anxiety you resort to medication.
Unfortunately, sometimes this is the only thing that works when the dog's fear of thunderstorm has turned into destructive behavior.
Now You Know How to Calm a Dog During a Storm
Hopefully, some of these tips were helpful.
Whether it is fireworks, or thunderstorms both scare dogs because they are sensitive to sounds.
There are several ways to calm them down: dryer sheets, putting them in a crate, creating a safe environment with toys, and more.
Storm anxiety is hard to watch your dog go through.
But it doesn't have to be like that forever.
READ NEXT: 12 Best Dog Anxiety Aids for Calming
