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Having a pet who is scared of thunderstorms isn’t fun for pet or owner. Pets can become anxious and even destructive, sometimes even before the owner realizes a storm is rolling in. What should you do if your dog is scared of thunder?
Keeping a calm demeanor and offering reassurance to your stressed pup during this time can help reduce concerning behaviors and help your pet feel calmer and safer during storms. But what’s the deal with dogs and thunder anyway?
Why Is My Dog Scared of Thunder?
It is theorized that dogs are sensitive to changes in air pressure and static electricity which can often be detected even before the start of thunder and lightning. Just as some dogs are scared of fireworks, it is likely that the sudden bright flashes of lightning and the loud booms of thunder are to blame for most dog’s thunderstorm anxiety. Our furry friends have much more sensitive ears than we do, so it is understandable the loud thunder may make them uncomfortable. It may also be an instinct of survival for our dogs to be on high alert and take shelter when there are loud noises.
Signs Your Dog Is Scared of Thunder
During a thunderstorm, dogs may exhibit several signs consistent with fear or anxiety. Your canine companion may pant excessively and pace or some will bark loudly at the sound of thunder. Some dogs may become destructive especially if left alone or confined during a storm, chewing up shoes, or even carpet and dry wall. Dogs who are afraid during a storm may try to hide in a space where they feel secure. This may be under or behind furniture, in their kennel, or any other space they feel safe. Some pets feel safest curled up near their owner, so an anxious pup may try to curl up in your lap. It is important not to punish anxious behavior as this can make things worse. Consider the following suggestions instead.
What to Do When Your Dog Is Scared of Thunder?
As pet parents, it’s hard to watch our pups tremble and be fearful during thunderstorms. Fortunately, there are several ways to try to intervene to help your anxious pup relax and feel more at ease during a storm.
Create a safe space
Sometimes dogs just want to find a good hiding place to hunker down during the storm. Creating a safe, comfy space for them helps them feel secure and hidden from the storm. For pets who like their kennel, consider putting a thick blanket over the top and sides to help cushion the loud noises. Other pets may prefer a corner of a small room with bedding and blankets to nestle in. This safe space could also be on your lap, snuggling them for reassurance.
Distraction
Distraction can be helpful for those anxious during a storm. Playing calming music or the TV over the sound of thunder can help drown out the scary booms. Having an interactive playtime session is a great way to take their mind off of things. Offer mental stimulation with a treat-filled Kong or Lickmat. Don’t punish for bad behaviors, instead try to distract with affection and treats.
Desensitization
For pets who are scared of booming thunder, desensitization can be a useful technique to help them realize it’s not so bad. The easiest way to do this is to softly play sounds of thunder on your phone and reward your pet with praise or treats for keeping calm. Increase the volume gradually, rewarding positive behavior along the way to show them thunder isn’t all that bad.
Calming products
There are over the counter options or home remedies for dogs scared of thunder. Calming vests can have a relaxing effect similar to swaddling a baby. The Thundershirt is a popular brand that comes in a variety of sizes to help your pet feel held and secure which can help with storm anxiety. There are also calming supplements available that use more of a holistic approach to managing anxiety. These often contain naturally calming ingredients like L-theanine, melatonin or even CBD. When purchasing a CBD based product, it is best to consult your veterinarian as there is a lot of variability to product quality with CBD.
Consult your vet
When at home options fail or for those pets with extreme anxiety, prescription dog anxiety treatment is the way to go. What can you give your dog for anxiety? Medications like Trazodone, Gabapentin or Alprazolam can help reduce anxiety during stressful times like during thunderstorms or the Fourth or July. Your vet may have additional recommendations on supplements and calming techniques for your individual pup.
Financial Security for Dogs Scared of Thunder
So, we’ve talked about lots of ways to help your furry friend through those scary thunderstorms, from creating cozy dens to trying calming treats and even chatting with your vet about medication. But let’s be real, vet visits, especially if you’re dealing with ongoing anxiety issues, can add up.
For dogs with storm phobia, pet insurance for dogs provides valuable support. It can reimburse costs associated with diagnosis, behavioral therapy, and medications, allowing you to prioritize your dog's care without financial stress. This includes covering prescription medications like Trazodone and offering financial protection should your dog's anxiety lead to destructive behavior or self-injury requiring emergency veterinary care.
While pet insurance is essential as a safety net, consider adding an optional, non-insurance pet wellness plan that can help you budget for routine care. Regular checkups covered by a wellness plan can help your vet identify early signs of anxiety or other underlying issues that might be contributing to your dog’s fear of thunder. These wellness visits can also be a great opportunity to discuss preventative strategies and management techniques with your vet.
Dogs and Thunderstorms
Nobody wants to watch their furry friend shake, hide or whimper during the occasional thunderstorm. Fortunately, from desensitization to distraction to anti-anxiety products, there are lots of options available to help your pet relax during storms. Utilizing a combination of the above strategies can work even better. Remember to use your veterinarian as a resource if your pet is struggling with anxiety. Next time you hear a storm rolling in, play some soothing music, offer a high reward treat and get ready to snuggle your canine companion for reassurance. And honestly, those cuddles during a thunderstorm? They’re not just comforting for your pup—they’re a great way to build an even stronger bond between you.