When your dog is afraid of thunders and loud sounds

It is that time of year again when your pet dog is a little more on edge — thunderstorm season. Dogs have an acute sense of hearing and can hear two times, if not more, than a human can, which explains why your dog is afraid of thunders.

Since dogs are more sensitive to noise, there may be hissing, crackling, or high-pitched sounds they hear, but we do not. Other loud sounds coming from things like the airplanes, drills and blenders can also cause special fears and anxieties to dogs.

3 ways to help a dog afraid of thunders

1. Reward calm behaviour all year round

Consoling and petting a fearful dog that is whimpering or climbing on you following claps of thunder just encourages the panicky behaviour.

Instead, distract your dog by offering his favorite toy, playing fetch and feeding treats as long as your dog remains calm.

2. A safe place

This might be his crate, a dark corner in the house, a room with music playing, or a bathroom. Let your dog decide. Notice where he goes during a storm, and ensure the space is available for him.

Be sure your dog can come and go freely, since some animals become more anxious if confined. The safe place is also helpful when you are not at home to calm him.

3. Trick and train

A training session when the skies turn dark may be a perfect way to take your dog’s mind off the weather. Ask him to perform commands or tricks he knows and reward him for following your commands to take his mind off the weather outside.