If your dog is terrified of sudden, loud or high-pitched noises, thunderstorms are likely distressing times for them. Storm stress can leave your pets feeling unnerved and overcome with fear. Yet there are certain things you can do to alleviate this stress and comfort your dog.

In this blog, we discuss the signs and symptoms of stress in dogs and provide tips on how you can support them during a thunderstorm.

Signs and symptoms your dog is stressed

The main signs of storm stress in dogs include shaking, panting, and pacing around. Their panting is more excessive than usual and may be accompanied by yawning and drooling. Some anxious dogs may also put their tail between their legs. Other common symptoms include:

• Whining
• Barking
• Excess drinking

How to support dogs during a thunderstorm

There are several ways you can support your dog during a thunderstorm, including:

1. Switch on the TV

Turn on the TV or radio to muffle the sounds of the thunderstorm. Put on some calming music, use white noise, or play some interesting videos. This technique may only work if your dog is used to household noise already. Background noise reduces stimulation in dogs and has a calming effect.

2. Provide distractions

Distract your pet by playing with them. Bring out their favourite toys or give them a puzzle toy to chew on. Engaging with them prevents dogs from focusing on the storm. Where they show thorough engagement, reward them with a treat.

Some dogs may become destructive in storms as licking and chewing are considered self-soothing behaviours. Provide positive outlets for these behaviours by, for example, smearing peanut butter or soft banana on a lick-mat.

3. Don’t let them sense worry

Keep calm and avoid showing your dog that you’re worried about them. Dogs can tell when you are stressed, which makes them feel uneased. Avoid jumping or shouting at the lightning and keep your body language calm and confident.

4. Provide comfort and a safe space

Comfort your pet and create a safe place where they can retreat to. Stroke or cuddle your dog if it helps them relax but avoid disturbing them if they’re in a comfortable place. Your pet may go to a closet or their crate because they find it familiar and soothing. Consider placing some of your clothes in the den to emanate your scent and keep your pet calm.

5. Avoid frustration

It’s important to remain calm with your pet and steer away from punishing them for things such as whining and chewing. Remember, these actions are your pet’s natural worry response to a storm much in the same way some humans jump at sudden lightning strikes or play music to drown out thunder. Do what you can to soothe them and stop yourself from getting annoyed if your efforts are unsuccessful.

6. Use Pet Remedy

Pet Remedy provides natural calming products that are suitable for all kinds of pets and mammals – including dogs. Pet Remedy products are widely used and highly rated by vets across the UK and worldwide. Calming products kick in immediately, helping to alleviate stress in your pet without sedating them. They help dogs become more settled, attentive, and receptive to their owners.

Looking for a calming solution for your pet during the next thunderstorm? Browse Pet Remedy calming products today.