Analyzing Anxiety
When Your Pup’s Afraid of Storms
By Camp Bow Wow​
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The sky has darkened, and the first roll of thunder echoes in the air. You look around and notice your furry family member trembling, panting or trying to hide. Our canine companions are highly sensitive to their environment, often sensing changes in weather, routine and atmosphere long before their humans do. And associated scary sights and sounds like loud thunder, bright lightning and strong winds are even more disruptive to their highly sensitive senses of hearing
and smell.
“Canine storm phobia, also known as thunderstorm phobia or astraphobia, is a common condition that affects a significant number of dogs worldwide. It’s estimated that up to 30% of dogs exhibit some level of storm-related anxiety, with some breeds being more prone to it than others,” according to thegrubbypuppy.com. At camp, we regularly see dogs begin pacing or acting out of character on calm, clear days simply because barometric pressure has shifted. This same sensitivity makes storm phobia a real, physical experience for many dogs. Some dogs stick Velcro close to their humans, while others hide in a dark place like a closet or under the bed.
Noticing that your pup is experiencing anxiety is the first step toward finding a calming solution. Begin with natural aids for mild anxiety:
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Compression wraps (Thundershirt) used consistently in advance
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Calming chews for dogs, either over the counter or prescribed by your veterinarian
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Pheromone diffusers (Adaptil)
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Soft background music or white noise
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Lavender-based aromatherapy
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A quiet, cozy retreat space away from noise
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When considering ways to help, timing is essential. Introduce your dog to a chew or try on a Thundershirt days in advance of storm season. One of the most common mistakes a pup parent makes is waiting until a storm arrives before offering a calming aid. Remember: dogs feel barometric pressure changes and shifts in energy well before humans do. Your pup pacing on a bright, calm day is already telling you a storm is coming. Check the forecast and begin comfort measures proactively, as they take time to take effect. It can help to draw the shades over windows to limit views of lightning and block out the noise as much as you can. Make sure you remain calm, as your pup will pick up on your nervousness and take emotional cues from you. Smile and speak in a normal, reassuring tone or consider singing to your pup. Raindrops on Roses can work for Fido as well as the Von Trapp children.
Consider consulting your vet about medication when:
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Anxiety is persistent and lasts weeks or months
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The dog is harming themselves (excessive licking, scratching)
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Natural aids have not helped after consistent use
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Anxiety is significantly affecting their quality of life
Many pup parents who know their furry family member experiences anxiety will leave the products that help Fido with them at camp. There the trained, loving staff will notice any anxious behavior and be attentive to each pup’s needs.
How We Support Anxious Dogs at Camp:
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Provide additional breaks away from the group
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Offer extra one-on-one comfort and attention
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Move the dog to a quieter space away from noise and activity
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Provide soft background music and cozy blankets
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Monitor behavioral cues closely, especially on days when weather is changing
Every dog is different, and anxiety can sometimes signal an underlying medical condition. Your vet is your best partner in building the right care plan for your pup that will help him ride out the storm with the least amount of distress.
