Just like people, every dog experiences storms differently—some may barely notice the rumble while others turn into nervous wrecks at the first distant boom.
My sweet Ziva struggled terribly with thunder, fireworks—really, any loud noise. It was heartbreaking to watch her tremble and try to escape the booming sounds. When her fear took over, she would chew through walls, jump fences, and even try to leap out windows in pure panic. We tried so many things that helped a little, but it was always a challenge to keep her safe from herself during those panicked moments.
Thankfully, there are now better medications available through your vet for dogs who suffer this severely. But for dogs with milder anxiety—or for young pups you want to gently prepare—I’ve put together a list of tips and ideas to help them feel calmer and more confident during storms.
Disclaimer: I am not a vet or behaviorist. If your dog’s behavior is severe consult a licensed professional to help guide you guide them through their anxiety.
Let’s start with the basics:
Create a Safe Space
Set up a quiet retreat in your home’s calmest room—like a closet, bathroom, or basement. Close windows and curtains to soften noise and flashes. Add comfy bedding and favorite toys. Some dogs feel safer in covered spaces like a crate with a blanket over it (if they’re already crate-trained and find it calming).
Turn on Background Noise
Mask the thunder by turning on the TV, a calming playlist, white noise machine, or even a loud fan. The goal is to make the storm less noticeable and give their mind something else to focus on.
Stay Calm Yourself
Dogs are super in tune with us—if you’re stressed, they’ll pick up on it. Speak softly, move slowly, and act like the storm is no big deal. Your calm confidence can help reassure them.
Use Calming Products
Over-the-counter calming treats, CBD products, pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil), or anxiety wraps (like Thundershirts) can help take the edge off. Every dog responds differently, so you may need to experiment to see what soothes yours best.
Talk to Your Vet About Medications
For dogs like my Ziva, whose fear is extreme and dangerous, prescription medications from your vet can be life-changing. Newer anti-anxiety meds are more effective and faster-acting than those available years ago, and they can truly make storms safer for severely anxious dogs.
More Advanced: Working to Eliminate the Fear
Desensitization & Counter-Conditioning: Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Storms
One of the most effective ways to help your dog overcome thunderstorm anxiety—especially if they are young or only mildly fearful—is through a gradual training process called desensitization and counter-conditioning. It takes time and patience but can build real confidence and reduce fear responses.
Here’s how to do it, step by step:
1. Start with Sound Recordings
Use high-quality thunderstorm soundtracks (YouTube has many, or you can find apps specifically made for this purpose). The key is to start at a very low volume—so quiet that your dog barely notices the sound and doesn’t react fearfully.
2. Pair the Sound with Something Positive
While the storm sounds play softly, give your dog high-value treats (something they don’t get every day like small bits of cheese or chicken) or engage them in a favorite game or toy. You want them to form a new, positive association with the sound of thunder.
3. Keep Sessions Short and Sweet
Training sessions should last less than 5 minutes and always end on a positive note. If your dog shows any sign of anxiety—like lip licking, yawning, pacing, or leaving the room—the volume is too high. Stop, lower the volume, and try again later.
4. Gradually Increase the Volume
Over several days or weeks (depending on your dog), slowly increase the volume as long as your dog stays relaxed and engaged with the treats or toy. Never rush this step—progress at your dog’s comfort level. Some dogs may take weeks or even months, and that’s okay!
5. Add Realistic Elements
Once your dog tolerates the sounds at a normal level, you can add other elements that usually come with storms, like flashing lights from a flashlight (simulating lightning), a fan (to simulate wind), or darkening the room. Always pair these additions with positive rewards.
6. Generalize to Real Life
When real storms come, have your treats or toys ready to reinforce calm behavior. Over time, many dogs will start to see storms as “no big deal” because they’ve been conditioned to expect good things when they hear thunder.
Important Notes:
✔️ Stay patient and consistent—this is a slow process, but it truly works.
✔️ Never force your dog to “face their fear” if they are panicking; this can make things worse.
✔️ If your dog has severe thunder phobia, consult a veterinary behaviorist who can guide this process and possibly recommend medication support.
When to Call for Help
If your dog’s anxiety is severe—causing destructive behavior, self-injury, or overwhelming fear—talk to your veterinarian or a certified behaviorist. There are wonderful resources and professionals who can help.
Remember:
You’re not alone if your dog fears storms—it’s a common struggle for many families. With the right tools, patience, and support, you can help your pup feel safer when the skies get loud.
📝 Thunderstorm Anxiety Prep Checklist
- Up-to-date ID tags & microchip.
- Safe, quiet retreat set up.
- Calming aids ready (treats, Thundershirt, pheromones)
- Sound distractions prepped (TV, white noise, music)
- Storm desensitization plan started.
- Vet consult if severe fear is present.
