Storm Anxiety in Dogs

Storm phobias are among the most common dog phobias mentioned by dog owners, according to the American Animal Hospital Association. But different aspects of a storm can frighten different dogs. Though the most common assumption is that dogs fear the sounds of a storm, some experts believe dogs also might be frightened by the drop in air pressure during a storm or by electrical activity in the air.

  1. Symptoms

    • For most dogs exhibiting fear, the symptoms are easy to recognize: big pupils, ears back, tail tucked, hiding or barking. Dogs with storm anxiety may also tremble, whine, drool or pace. If these behaviors happen during thunderstorms, it's safe to say your dog has a phobia. The symptoms may even start an hour or more before the storm hits if the dog is responding to the air pressure or electrical activity that precedes the storm.

    Behavioral Treatment

    • Many of a dog's fears can be reduced through desensitization, which involves exposing your dog to the frightening stimulus at low levels, gradually increasing the stimulus until he is comfortable with the noises. This is usually done in conjunction with treats to make the stimulus rewarding rather than frightening.

      To do this with storm phobias, you can purchase a CD of storm sounds and play them at a low level, at the point where your dog is attentive but not distressed. Feed your dog treats, while he can hear the noise. Keep the sessions short to avoid stress. If your dog shows signs of stress, you are moving too fast. Practice until your dog can tolerate the noises at the loudest volume.

    Natural Treatments

    • Dr. Nicolas Dodman and Dr. Linda Aronson of Tufts University recommend melatonin for noise-phobic dogs. When used in conjunction with training, melatonin can reduce stress symptoms. It's available in pill form at most health food stores. Recommended dosage for a medium-sized dog was 3 milligrams. Flower essences, such as Rescue Remedy and Calming Essence, can also reduce stress symptoms. You can purchase these at most pet stores and add a few drops to your pet's water bowl or rub them on her collar when thunderstorms strike.

    Medical Treatment

    • If your dog's fear seems severe, consult your veterinarian. Calming medications, such as Clomicalm or Valium, can reduce an animal's anxiety, but they are only available from your veterinarian.

    Additional Tips

    • Do what you can to help your dog remain calm during a thunderstorm. Create a calm, quiet place where your dog can relax, such as a small, enclosed place--a crate, closet or under a table. If he seems comfortable there, give him treats or a bone, but don't force him to leave this space. Let him wait out the storm where he feels safest.