What Calms a Dog Down During a Storm?
35% off on product page · save $9.69
What Calms a Dog Down During a Storm?
Create a Quiet Place
A quiet, familiar space can help your dog feel safer during a storm, especially if you choose an interior room away from windows and close the curtains to soften flashes of lightning. Put your dog’s bed or a familiar blanket there, offer access before the storm starts, and let your dog decide whether to settle in that spot rather than forcing them inside.
Reduce Noise and Offer Reassurance
Steady background sound, such as a fan, television, or soft music, may make sudden thunder less noticeable, although you should keep the volume comfortable and make sure your dog can leave the room. Stay nearby if your dog seeks you out, speak calmly, and offer gentle attention; comforting a frightened dog is appropriate, but avoid holding or restraining them if they want space.
Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating reduce noise and offer reassurance.
Featured in this guide
Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Storms | Ebook for a Dog Afraid of Thunderstorms | Anxiety Relief Guide, Calming Training & Proven Techniques
Try Familiar Calming Activities
Before a storm arrives, a walk, bathroom break, and normal meal routine can help you prepare, while an enjoyable chew or food puzzle may give a dog who is still willing to eat something else to focus on. During intense fear, your dog may refuse treats or play, so remove the pressure to participate and focus on keeping the environment quiet and secure instead.
Prepare for Future Storms
For gradual practice between storms, you can pair very low-volume recordings of thunder with treats or another enjoyable activity, increasing the sound only when your dog remains comfortable and stopping if they show distress. Some dogs also tolerate a properly fitted calming wrap, but introduce it on a calm day, watch for discomfort, and remove it if your dog struggles or seems more anxious.
Know When to Ask for Help
If your dog panics, tries to escape, injures themselves, or cannot settle after storms, talk with your veterinarian about a tailored plan and whether prescription medication or a referral to a qualified behavior professional is appropriate. For more ideas, our team’s ebook, Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Storms, covers calming training and techniques; you can also read our guide to making a calm, safe storm plan.
“Wow, this guide is a lifesaver! My poor pup used to shake like a leaf during storms. Now? He’s as cool as a cucumber. It’s not just about the immediate calmness it brings but also the long-term resilience he’s developed. Highly recommend!”
FAQ
How do I stop my dog from freaking out during storms?
Give your dog access to a quiet retreat, soften storm sounds with comfortable background noise, and stay close if they want reassurance. If their fear is severe or recurring, ask your veterinarian for help rather than waiting for the next storm.
What can I give my dog to calm him down in a storm?
You can offer a familiar chew or food puzzle if your dog is interested and can use it safely. Ask your veterinarian before giving medication or supplements, and never give human medication unless your veterinarian specifically directs you to do so.
See if Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Storms | Ebook for a Dog Afraid of Thunderstorms | Anxiety Relief Guide, Calming Training & Proven Techniques fits your setup
Leave a comment