If you’re a dog lover, it can be hard to watch your usually calm pup get stressed during a thunderstorm. While some dogs show mild signs of stress, like licking their paws, others can become so anxious that they get destructive.
To understand why some dogs are afraid of thunderstorms, we spoke with Trista Miller, a CPDT-certified trainer and AKC CGC and Trick Dog Evaluator. Here’s what we found out.
Why Do Dogs Hate Thunderstorms?
While trainers and experts may not have all the answers, Miller thinks the main reason dogs hate thunderstorms has a lot to do with the loud noises. “Dogs have such sensitive hearing—they can detect sounds much earlier than we can,” she explains.
She also thinks it’s instinctive. “It’s a survival instinct to be scared of loud noises and want to find shelter,” she says. “Thunder is definitely a part of it, but I also believe dogs are sensitive to changes in air pressure and even static electricity. There might be things they can sense, like sounds or changes we can’t pick up on.”
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Tips for Soothing Your Dog During a Thunderstorm
When a thunderstorm hits and your dog starts to get nervous, here are some helpful tips to calm them down:
- Give Them a Safe Space
Let your dog retreat to their safe space, and don’t punish them for behaviors like whining or chewing during a storm. Miller says dogs often feel comforted by spaces like their crate or a dark closet, because it’s familiar and cozy.
“Dogs evolved from wolves, and wolves used to live in dens. They still enjoy den-like spaces,” she explains. “Being in an enclosed area where they feel safe helps them relax and feel secure.” - Provide Background Noise
If your dog can’t hear the thunder or see the lightning, they’re less likely to get stressed. In addition to providing a safe, dark space, try adding some background noise to distract them. Just like us, dogs get uneasy when they suddenly hear a loud sound.
“Playing white noise or calming classical music works well,” says Miller. “You can also talk to your dog in a soothing voice, and if they enjoy it, pet them with long, calming strokes.” - Soothe Your Dog with Toys, Treats, and More
Chew toys and puzzles can help keep your dog distracted and calm during a storm.
“If your dog gets destructive, chewing or licking can be a way for them to soothe themselves,” Miller says. “If that’s something they naturally do when upset, giving them a positive outlet, like a toy, can help.”
Try getting toys like a Lickimat, which you can spread with peanut butter, cream cheese, or soft bananas—your dog will have to work to get the food off.
Calming treats, CBD oil, peanut butter-filled Kongs, or anxiety vests can also make a big difference. “Anything like that is great for dogs,” Miller adds. “If they love their crate, try giving them these treats and toys in there.”
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Learn Your Dog’s Body Language
It’s easy to get frustrated with your dog when they’re being destructive or whining during a storm, but it’s important to understand why they’re acting this way and how to help them. The key is learning to read your dog’s body language.
Dogs are great at communicating with their body language. “They’re really good at reading other dogs’ body language and ours, but we often miss what they’re trying to say,” Miller explains. “A lot of people misunderstand their dog’s signals.”
For instance, if your dog yawns, it’s likely a sign that they’re feeling stressed. By starting to recognize these signs before a storm hits, you can be prepared and help calm your dog down before things get too out of control.
