Skip to main content

6 useful tips for helping an anxious dog through a thunderstorm

As many areas brace for storm season, pet parents both dread and prep for their fur babies’ inevitable thunder anxiety. According to the Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies, up to 40% of dogs suffer from some degree of noise-induced stress, though we can hardly blame them. Storms can be overwhelming!

Luckily, you don’t just have to wait it out; there’s a lot you can do to keep dogs calm during thunderstorms. You may have heard about the canine calming anxiety vests often used for noise anxiety, but this is just one way of keeping your pup chill and distracted while a storm rages outside. Here are our favorite techniques, tips, and tricks:

1. Use white noise to distract them

In some cases, distractions are more than enough to take the edge off your dog’s anxiety. White noise — whether through TV background noise or an actual white-noise machine — can mask the sounds of thunder (though be sure your sounds aren’t too loud).

Music with a beat is another fantastic idea (via VCA Hospitals). The bass and drumbeats sound like thunder — minus the excruciating volume, of course. Not only does this help hide the real storm sounds, but it also may help desensitize your dog to thunderous sounds moving forward.

a brown dog looks out from underneath multicolored blankets
Image used with permission by copyright holder

2. Create a safe space for your dog

No matter what’s stressing them out, giving your four-legged friend a secure place to call their own can reduce a lot of their anxiety. Dogs are den creatures, so an enclosed space like a crate with a blanket over it can be all you need for their perfect hidey-hole.

Of course, a few cozy and comfy items will give their space a reassuring, personal touch. If your pup doesn’t have a blanket they prefer, give them one of yours for the duration of the storm; your scent will be familiar and comforting for your furry companion. Toys, bones, and treats are all great ideas to make a safe space feel inviting and exciting to a dog, but don’t worry if your buddy doesn’t take to their den immediately.

3. Stay calm and stay with your dog

Dogs are pack creatures, and although they can withstand some time alone while you’re out, it’s much less stressful for them to spend a thunderstorm by your side. Having you around also gives your fur baby more chances for distraction and affection — two effective anxiety relievers.

In extreme cases, a dog can be so frightened by thunder and lightning that they escape their crate or even their home. This is just another reason to stay with them throughout the storm, though not a reason to stay anxious yourself.

When you’re with your stressed-out pooch, it’s important that you keep calm. Your dog is learning from you, after all. If you’re panicked, they’re sure to panic, too. A confident canine companion can be enough to make an anxious dog feel reassured, so this buddy shouldn’t be at all fazed by loud sounds. Two stressed pups won’t be fun!

4. Don’t reassure fearful behavior

One well-meaning but significant mistake that many pet parents make is comforting their anxious dog. Of course, we want our fur baby to feel better! But by coming to their rescue when they whine, scratch, or jump, we let them know that those behaviors succeed in getting comfort. This makes them more likely to do it again!

This isn’t to say you shouldn’t comfort your pet when they’re stressed out; you just shouldn’t do it in response to an action you don’t want them repeating. While they’re still crying or jumping, it’s OK to talk to them positively and casually but don’t give in to comfort or baby talk. When they’re done whining, call them to you and pick them up (or whatever comfort you’re willing to give) on your terms, not theirs.

a french bulldog leans in on their owner's lap as they get pet
Image used with permission by copyright holder

5. Engage your pet in another activity

Although this is easier said than done, distracting your dog can sometimes get their mind off their fears. Try an extra-special treat — something they get only once in a blue moon — or a brand-new toy to keep them engaged. Play with them, too, since they’re less likely to get bored when they’re not the only ones playing.

6. Try desensitization therapy

If thunderstorms are common where you live, it might benefit both you and your pup to give desensitization a shot. This strategy will have you slowly introducing your dog to thunder sounds on some kind of CD or video. At first, the volume will be incredibly low, but you’ll increase it over time as your dog becomes more confident. If your pup shows any sign of anxiety at all, it’s probably best to take a break and decrease the noise a little next time.

However you decide to approach thunderstorms, you and your dog have some work to do. It’ll take some time and patience from you both. In the end, though, you’ll be so glad you did it. Neither you nor your pup will have to worry when the forecaster says there’s a storm coming in because you both know that you’ll be just fine.

Editors' Recommendations

Gabrielle LaFrank
Gabrielle LaFrank has written for sites such as Psych2Go, Elite Daily, and, currently, PawTracks. When she's not writing, you…
Everything to know about the adorable Yorkie dog and its characteristics
Do Yorkie dogs make good pets? Here's everything you need to know
A cute Yorkie on the floor

Whether you're a canine pro or new to the dog world, Yorkshire terriers are one of the most recognizable dog breeds. Maybe it’s their teeny-tiny size, their brown and black markings, or the numerous celebs like Kristin Cavallari and Giselle Bundchen who have allowed their Yorkie dogs to ride in their designer handbags. But whatever it is -- no one's questioning these cuties' recognizability.

As you may have guessed, parenting a Yorkie dog can be a rewarding experience. Small in stature, this breed boasts a massive personality. However, Yorkies also have a big (and sometimes bad) reputation. Despite their tiny size, they’re known as rather vocal dogs and considered high-maintenance pets. While some of these claims are unfair, others have some truth.

Read more
8 autumn Instagram pet photographs that will get you excited for the gorgeous season ahead
Fall Instagram pet photos sweeter than a pumpkin spice latte
a dog and woman cuddling on fall woodland walk

Fall is such a fun and inspirational time of year. Nature offers up some awesome colors as leaves turn from lush green to stunning shades of red, yellow, and orange. Farm fields are dotted with orange pumpkins, and people and pets get to dress up for Halloween. It’s the perfect season for taking photos of your pet. We scoured social media. Here are our favorite autumn Instagram pet photos.

Dogs falling for autumn on Instagram
These pups have an extra pep in their steps as the seasons change. They're dressing up, winding down, and taking scenic routes.

Read more
The 6 biggest myths about Chihuahuas, debunked once and for all
Chihuahua fact or fiction? Here's the truth behind 6 common myths about these small dogs
A black Chihuahua against a yellow backdrop

Chihuahuas are a small breed with a big personality. Some have a Napoleon complex — they totally think they can take on the mail carrier, and they will threaten to do so. Purebred Chihuahuas don’t exceed 6 pounds, so their valiant efforts can be more comedic than anything. Their reputation as an opinionated, snuggly, and incredibly loyal breed precedes them, and more than a few dog owners dream of being a Chihuahua's favorite person.
However, not every part of their reputation is true, and there are more than a few myths about these lovable dogs. We’re debunking them and giving you straight Chihuahua facts.

Myth 1: Chihuahuas don’t need much exercise
This statement is one of the biggest Chihuahua myths. Though the breed is small, Chihuahuas are full of energy and need stimulation. Any dog can become overweight, and Chihuahuas are particularly prone to obesity. Physical activity is one way to keep your Chihuahua healthy. While they don’t need as much physical activity as a larger breed, such as a Labrador Retriever, they need frequent exercise. About 30 minutes of walking and playing per day should do, and it’s a great way to bond. Some dogs may need more or less, depending on their age and overall health. Talk to your vet.

Read more