Dog Thunder Anxiety 101

If your pup starts to shake or pace anxiously when he hears the first rumble of thunder, you’re certainly not the only dog owner to experience this.

Thunderstorm and fireworks anxiety is extremely common in pets—but that doesn’t make it any less distressing for both you and your furry friend. You may even find that your dog grows anxious at any sign of a storm, from rain to wind and even barometric changes. 

But the good news is that with the right dog thunder anxiety management and long-term strategies, you can help your dog feel more at ease—and take some of that secondhand stress off of your own plate. In this article, we’ll tell you how to do just that. 

Recognizing the Signs of Thunder Anxiety in Dogs

The first step to helping your sweet pup find anxiety relief is to keep an eye out for the signs that her anxiety is revving up. You may notice that your dog begins to show signs of fear even before the storm hits. Common early cues include restlessness and changes in behavior, such as hiding, excessive licking, or suddenly becoming very clingy and seeking comfort from you.

General signs of anxiety in dogs include trembling, panting, pacing, drooling, hiding, chewing or destruction, vocalizing, incontinence, and seeking attention. Once you recognize these giveaways—both big and small—you can better strategize to manage the symptoms.

Immediate Calming Tips for Dog Thunder Anxiety (During the Storm)

When your dog is feeling anxious in the moment, there are several things you can do to help him find a sense of calm. For starters, consider creating a den-like safe space to which he can retreat, such as a crate or closet filled with his favorite toys and other comfort items.

Background noise such as white noise, classical music, and a calming TV show can mask the thunder and help your dog relax.

Other soothing tools include: calming chews, lick mats (e.g., peanut butter), and puzzle toys. A pressure wrap, such as a Thundershirt, might also be effective when used with other tactics.

Meifsou Dog Anxiety Vest, Skin-Friendly Thunder Jacket: $26.99

As an owner, you should do your best to exude calm energy. Stay composed and avoid punishment. Above all, make efforts to comfort your frightened dog without overwhelming him.

Planning Ahead & Long-Term Management

If your dog is prone to thunder anxiety, planning ahead and practicing long-term stress management can make a big difference when the next storm rolls around.

Consider desensitization and counterconditioning tactics, such as exposing your four-legged friend to recorded thunder sounds, paired with positive reinforcement.

Medication and supplements are also viable options. Talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medications like SSRIs and Sileo, pheromone sprays, and calming supplements.

Bottom line

Helping a dog through thunderstorm anxiety doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When you start with quick, practical steps and build on these strategies with desensitization training, consistent cues, and support from your veterinarian, you and your pup will be on your way to a greater sense of inner peace. 

Note: Golden Puppies is a participant in Amazon’s affiliate program. If you purchase a product through one of our links, we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.