Dogs Scared of Thunder
What to do when your dog is scared of thunder.
Fear of thunder is a common trait amongst many domestic dogs. As we all know, a dog’s sense of hearing is much more powerful than a human’s. So when that loud crack of thunder sends chills down your spine- imagine what it sounded like to your canine. Pretty terrifying to an animal who can’t comprehend where or why the noise is coming, right? It’s difficult not to feel helpless when your canine is scared during a storm. A few of these tips can not only calm your dog- but over time teach them that thunder is nothing to fear.
Blanket Rap or Dog Coat:
You’ve probably seen the TV ads for “Thunder Shirt” a dog coat that you can put on your dog during a thunder storm to calm their anxiety. But you don’t necessarily need to rush out and spend $20.00 to $50.00 on a new dog accessory. Although they are highly reviewed, they can be mimicked with other items around your home. Thickly insulated dog coats can have the same effect on many dogs. Also taking a blanket and wrapping it securely around your dogs body can help calm them down when they’re stressed. The security of being ‘protected’ by an object hugging them often puts many dogs at ease.
Comfy Indoor Dog House:
People will often find their canine running frantically around the house during a thunder storm- crouching under the bed, curling into a corner, or searching for a better place to hide. By having a small secure place for your dog to go to, such as an indoor dog house, a blanket-covered crate, or even a cardboard box with a blanket inside, you give your dog a small and tight place where they can feel secure and protected. Having a ‘safe spot’ where your dog can run to when they’re scared will often prevent them from frantically searching the house for a place to avoid the noise.
Make Other Sounds:
If the thunder is constant and unrelenting, making other sounds available can help distract your dog from the sounds outside.
Turn on a television, radio, or a music player. The other sounds can help ease your dog’s stress, by taking their attention away from the thunder and offering up an alternative sound for them to focus on.
Find A “Quiet Room”:
Do you have a bathroom without windows? Is your basement well-insulated and quiet? If you have a room in your home that’s a bit quieter than the rest of the house- secure your dog in that specific room. Anywhere where the thunder sounds less loud is going to make your dog feel less stressed.
Comfort Them:
A few kind words, a gentle belly rub, and a bit of cuddling can go a long way with many dogs. Dogs are social creatures and companionship above all else makes them feel safe and calm. So offer your canine some love and affection. Above all of these ideas- this one is most inclined to teach your dog that thunder is nothing to be afraid of (but it is a good excuse to get attention).
Bach’s Rescue Remedy:
If all else fails, and your dog is still shivering the second lightening strikes, try Bach’s rescue remedy. Bach’s is an over-the-counter herbal blend safe for all pets that helps your dog calm down without making them drowsy or tired. Many people have used this medicine during thunder storms, and slowly weaned their dogs off of it, over time allowing them to become naturally calm dogs during lightening strikes.
