Q&A for How to Calm a Dog During Thunderstorms

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Should I comfort my dog during thunder?

Beverly Ulbrich
Dog Behaviorist & Trainer
Beverly Ulbrich is a Dog Behaviorist and Trainer and the Founder of The Pooch Coach, a private dog training business based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is a Certified CGC (Canine Good Citizen) Evaluator by the American Kennel Club and has served on the Board of Directors for the American Humane Association and Rocket Dog Rescue. She has been voted the best private dog trainer in the San Francisco Bay Area 4 times by SF Chronicle and by Bay Woof, and she has won 4 "Top Dog Blog" awards. She has also been featured on TV as a dog behavior expert. Beverly has over 18 years of dog behavior training experience and specializes in dog aggression and anxiety training. She has a Master of Business Administration from Santa Clara University and a BS from Rutgers University.

Beverly Ulbrich

Dog Behaviorist & Trainer

Expert Answer

Yes! Give your dog a bone or toy to play with while you play thunder sounds so it starts to associate the sounds with positive things.

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Question

How do I calm down a dog during a thunderstorm?

Community Answer

Block out the noise as best as you can, talk to your dog in a soothing voice and stay calm.

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What should I do for my large dog who hides in a box when a thunderstorm hits?

Community Answer

It's best to let him stay in the box. You could try a thunder shirt and some lavender spray to calm him.

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Is it possible my dog is just not scared?

Community Answer

Of course it is. Not all dogs are afraid of thunderstorms. If your dog isn't showing any signs of fear, then you don't need to do anything.

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How can I help my dog relax during thunderstorms?

Community Answer

If you know a storm is approaching, take your dog for a long walk to calm him and tire him out before the storm strikes. Stay near your dog away from the windows during the storm, try to distract him with his favorite toys and play music to cover the sound of thunder and rain.

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How do I keep my large dog from hiding and getting stuck under the bed?

Community Answer

Put up a card table and throw a big comforter over it. Place a blanket or shirt that smells like you inside.

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Question

What can I do to comfort my dog during a thunderstorm?

Community Answer

First, stay calm; dogs are sensitive to human emotions and can become anxious if those around them are anxious. Give your dog a safe, comfortable, and quiet place to rest, distract them with treats and toys, and stay with them. Some dogs might prefer physical contact and comfort, while others may prefer to be left alone, so you'll have to use your judgment and knowledge of your own dog to determine which course to take. Some pet stores may sell noise-blocking headphones or other comfort devices for dogs, too.

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What do I do about middle-of-the-night storms?

Community Answer

The same steps as are in this article apply to storms that happen in the middle of the night, with some alterations (eg. you may not be able to call your dog as the storm begins because you may be asleep and wake up while it's already in full swing).

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How can I calm my dog during night time storms?

Community Answer

Look into Thunder Vests for your dog; they fit snugly around your pup and give him a sense of security. You can also let your dog snuggle with you so he sees that you aren't worried so he can relax, too.

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How do I get my dog out from underneath our coffee table during a thunderstorm?

Community Answer

You could try luring them out with treats or toys, but the other option is to just let them stay there. Being under the table can make them feel safe, which can help them calm down; moving your dog might frighten them. If you lure them out, make sure to comfort them.

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Question

What can cause my dog to look for something while music is playing?

Community Answer

Maybe you can teach the dog before thunderstorms. You can do it on a regular basis and that might help. After storms you probably should give the dog a treat to show there is nothing to be afraid of.

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How can I calm my dog during thunderstorms when it is too scared to even come to me?

Community Answer

If the dog won't come to you, you should go to the dog. Even you can't reach them where they are (like if they're hiding under something), just get as near to them as you can. Reassure them in a calm, soothing voice that everything is going to be okay. Turn on some calm music, like classical or jazz, and just hang out near your dog until the storm passes.

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