Thunderstorms: How to Keep Your Dog Calm

A Fear of thunderstorms is common for dogs. Similar to fireworks, which many dogs are also afraid of, the loud, unpredictable sounds and flashes of light can be stressful for dogs because they don’t understand why it’s happening. Some of the most frequent symptoms of dog storm anxiety include restlessness, shaking, panting and hiding. It can be heartbreaking to see your dog so fearful and agitated, but as a dog parent there are things you can do to help calm your dog before and during a storm.
9 Ways to Calm Your Dog During Storms
If your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, there are a few things you can try to help soothe them when stormy weather rolls in.
Plan Ahead & Act Early
Compared to humans, dogs are much more sensitive to the signs that a storm is coming. Dogs can sense barometric pressure changes, feel static electricity in the air, hear the low-frequency sounds of distant thunder before you can, and smell when rain is on the way.
If a storm is coming and your dog is showing early signs of anxiety, don’t wait for them to start freaking out before you take action! Getting ahead of storm anxiety can make the symptoms less severe. Use these tips to create a “storm action plan” and monitor the weather forecast so you can be prepared.