1. Create a Safe Space
Dogs often feel more secure in enclosed, quiet areas during thunderstorms. Set up a cozy space for your dog where they can retreat—whether it’s a crate, a quiet room, or even under the bed. Adding blankets and their favorite toys can help them feel more protected.
2. Use White Noise
Drown out the sound of thunder by playing calming white noise, soft music, or even turning on a fan. The steady sound can help mask the loud booms outside and create a more peaceful environment for your dog.
3. Try a Thunder Shirt
A ThunderShirt or similar anxiety wrap applies gentle, constant pressure to your dog’s body, which can have a calming effect during thunderstorms. It’s like a reassuring hug that helps many dogs feel less anxious.
4. Give Them a Distraction
Offering a favorite chew toy or engaging puzzle toy can divert your dog’s attention away from the storm. Keeping their mind busy with treats or toys can help reduce stress as they focus on something positive.
5. Use Calming Scents
Certain scents, like lavender or chamomile, have calming properties for dogs. You can use a pet-safe calming spray or diffuser in the room, or even apply a tiny bit to your dog’s bedding to help them relax.
6. Provide Gentle Physical Comfort
Sometimes, your presence is the most calming thing for your dog. Sit next to them, offer gentle petting, or speak softly to reassure them that everything is okay. Just being there can provide a lot of comfort.
7. Try Calming Supplements
Natural supplements like CBD oil, valerian root, or melatonin, made specifically for dogs, can help reduce anxiety during storms. Always consult your vet before introducing any new supplements to make sure they’re safe for your dog.
8. Desensitize Your Dog
Before the next thunderstorm hits, you can work on desensitizing your dog to the sound of thunder. Play recordings of thunderstorms at a low volume while rewarding your dog with treats, gradually increasing the volume over time to build their tolerance.
9. Stay Calm Yourself
Dogs pick up on their owners’ emotions, so if you’re anxious or stressed during a storm, your dog is likely to feel the same way. Try to stay calm and act like everything is normal to help your dog feel more at ease.
10. Close the Curtains or Blinds
The sight of lightning can be just as frightening for dogs as the sound of thunder. Keeping the curtains or blinds closed can block out visual stimuli and help make the storm feel less intense for your pup.
11. Offer a High-Value Treat
Reward your dog with their favorite high-value treat when a storm starts. This can help create a positive association with thunderstorms over time. Treats like peanut butter or a Kong filled with goodies can keep them focused and happy.
12. Try Anti-Anxiety Medication
For dogs with severe storm anxiety, anti-anxiety medication prescribed by your vet may be the best solution. These medications can be highly effective in helping your dog stay calm during thunderstorms.
13. Keep the TV or Radio On
Turn on the TV or radio to distract your dog from the sound of thunder. A show or calm music can offer comforting background noise and help mask the sounds of the storm.
14. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise your dog for staying calm during the storm, even if they’re just slightly less anxious than usual. Offering treats and positive attention when they exhibit calm behavior can reinforce the idea that storms aren’t so scary after all.
