How to Calm Your Dog During a Thunderstorm

If you’re new to pet parenthood (welcome!) you might learn that your dog has a storm phobia; it’s not uncommon for dogs to have a fear of thunderstorms.

It could be due to a general fear of loud noises (thunder, fireworks, etc.) or the changes in barometric pressure and humidity could be affecting their senses or even causing them some discomfort like it can for us humans. While we can’t know for certain what causes it, we can know what signs to look out for (eg. dogs shaking during thunderstorms), and be equipped to help them.

Common signs of thunderstorm anxiety in dogs

From dogs panting during thunderstorms to seeking comfort by becoming extra clingy, there are many signs that your dog might be feeling stressed.

Some signs of dog stress include: 

• Heavy or fast panting
• Pacing 
• Clinging to their owner
• Hyperactivity
• Excessive drooling
• Hiding in a closet or under the bed
• Trembling or shaking

Tips for calming a dog during a storm

1. Create a space in your home to help your dog feel safe

If your dog feels safe in their crate, you can place it in a quiet part of the house and cover it with a blanket. Or, find a room without a window, or with windows that can be fully covered, so they can’t see flashes of lightning. Depending on how much room you have, you can set up the space with their bed, favorite toys, blankets, etc.

2. Make some (good) noise

Try replacing the frightening sound of thunder with something that will put your dog at ease. Put on a soothing playlist or turn on a white noise machine to help drown out the thunder. Check out our Calm & Confident Dogs playlist on Spotify to help your dog relax!

3. Try a dog anxiety shirt

Similar to how we use weighted blankets to help us relax and fall asleep, the constant, gentle pressure of an anxiety shirt around your dog’s mid-section may feel like a hug and have a calming effect on them. You can pick up a Thundershirt or anxiety wrap online or at your local pet store, or you can make a DIY dog Thundershirt! Check out this step-by-step guide by Trupanion to making your own anxiety wrap at home.

4. Try a clinically proven calming supplement

VetriScience offers a range of science-backed dog calming supplements to help your canine companion relax without causing drowsiness or affecting their personality. Calm & Confident (formerly Composure*) bite-sized chews are clinically shown to work within 30 minutes and help soothe stress for up to 4 hours. You can even choose from tasty flavors that your dog will love, like chicken, bacon, and peanut butter.

So the next time you see a thunderstorm in the forecast, don’t worry. There are plenty of options to help keep your dog relaxed.