What causes dogs to be afraid of thunderstorms?

Dropping barometric pressure—which dogs can sense—coupled with darkening skies, wind, and the sheer noise of thunder can cause fearful reactions in dogs. Some dogs have canine noise aversion, which can make them uncomfortable or even phobic about loud sounds.

Why are some dogs scared of thunder and others not?

There are three likely culprits that answer the question: why are dogs afraid of thunderstorms? These possibilities include canine noise aversion, separation anxiety, and — the real shocker — static electricity.

Should I walk my dog in a thunderstorm?

Dogs aren’t fans of sudden, loud noises and they can become incredibly distressed during thunderstorms. Always keep your dog inside during the storm, and avoid walks if you know that a storm is forecast to save being caught in it with your pup. In extreme cases, vets can prescribe medication for thunderstorm anxiety.

What do you do when your dog is shaking with fear?

Anxiety and Fear Talk to them in a calm, reassuring tone. Try to create a safe space for him or her where they feel protected. If you can remove your furry friend from the situation causing their anxiety, do so immediately. Otherwise, do your best to comfort them until his or her fears subside.

What happens when lightning strikes a vehicle?

A typical cloud-to-ground, actually cloud-to-vehicle, lightning strike will either strike the antenna of the vehicle or along the roofline. A portion of the discharge may find its way into the vehicle’s electrical system and may damage or destroy electronic components, potentially leaving the car inoperable.

How often do dogs get hit by lightning?

Statistics for lightning strike in pets is virtually non-existent. But often their exposure and inability to find protection can be more limited. Dogs left out in large, open fenced yards may have little protection from lightning strike.

What can I do if my dog is afraid of Thunder?

Drown out the impact of the storm. For example, if your dog is afraid of lightning, try turning on a light in the room your dog is in. This will minimize the impact of the lightning. Turn on music, or some other kind of noise, to drown out the noise of the thunder.

How do I get dog over the fear of thunderstorms?

Keep at least two syringes of SILEO ® on hand!

Does your dog have a thunderstorm phobia?

Thunderstorm phobia in dogs is real, not uncommon, and shouldn’t be ignored , experts say. “Most of the time they don’t grow out of it on their own, and many will get worse with time if nothing is done,” says Matt Peuser, DVM, a veterinarian at Olathe Animal Hospital in Kansas.

Why is my dog afraid of storms?

Experts do not yet truly know the answer of why dogs are afraid of storms. There are several dog breeds which are more apt to develop a phobia of storms according to Tufts University . Herding breeds, for example, are more prone to develop a storm phobia. Dogs who show signs of separation anxiety are also more prone to develop a storm phobia.