Dog Anxiety in Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms can be difficult for dogs--storms cause loud noises and may even reduce their walks or opportunities for them to relieve themselves. However, for some dogs, thunderstorms are more than an annoyance; they are actually frightening. Though phobias are often difficult to treat, thunderstorm phobias have been extensively studied by behaviorists, and treatment options are available.

  1. Symptoms

    • All dogs may be startled by a loud clap of thunder or be hesitant to go outside in the rain, but most dogs will recover quickly and maintain their normal behavior. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, if your dog has an actual thunderstorm phobia, the symptoms will be more severe, such as panting, trembling, whining, pacing, hiding, drooling and, in severe cases, destroying furniture, doors, walls and window frames. If these symptoms appear during every storm and disappear after the storm has subsided, this is a thunderstorm phobia.

    Causes

    • Causes of thunderstorm phobias are largely unknown. Certain breeds, such as herding and working breeds, tend to be more likely to develop thunderstorm phobias, so it may be genetic. Dogs who were never exposed to thunderstorms as puppies may be improperly socialized to them, and dogs may also learn them from owners who are frightened of thunderstorms themselves. It is also largely unknown which part of the thunderstorm is causing the anxiety: the noise, the light flashes, the sudden drop in air pressure or the electrical static in the air.

    Medication/Supplements

    • Dogs who are severely crippled by thunderstorm activity may require medication from a veterinarian. Clomicalm is often prescribed to dogs with anxiety issues and has been demonstrated to work on thunderstorm phobias. Dr. Nicolas Dodman of Tufts University has also found that the supplement melatonin is effective in reducing phobias associated with thunderstorms. However, medication is often a temporary solution that is most effective when used in conjunction with behavior modification.

    Additional Calming Strategies

    • To reduce anxiety around thunderstorms, provide your dog with a safe place to hide during the storm. Dogs often have preferred places, such as the closet or bathtub, which indicates that it may be the electric charge disturbing your dog since bathtubs are not conductors of static electricity. Try using an anxiety wrap or T-shirt tied tightly around your dog, which dog behaviorists use to provide comfort and reduce stress. Rub your dog with a dryer sheet to reduce the effects of the air static.

    Behavioral Modification

    • If your dog is frightened by thunderstorm noises, training is usually the best option. However, behavioral modification is often used in conjunction with medication and other relaxation strategies to be most effective. Baytown Humane Society recommends buying a thunderstorm sounds CD and playing it at a volume where your dog's ears prick up but it is not frightened. Give your dog treats for tolerating the noise. Gradually increase the volume over a period of several weeks. If your dog ever gets frightened, you are moving too quickly. Keep the training sessions to only a few minutes each day to reduce stress.