Canine Storm Phobia Symptoms and Information

Seasonal storms are a regular―and expected―occurrence in many different areas of the world. Unfortunately for many dog owners such as yourself, this may mean dealing with a fearful canine. Noise phobias, especially those caused by thunderstorms, are actually relatively common in dogs and they can be stressful for both you and your dog.

What Is Canine Storm Phobia?

In dogs, storm phobias are a type of noise phobia. Holly Nash, a veterinarian who is part of the Veterinary Services Department for the Pet Education website adds that a storm phobia is not strictly limited to the sound of thunder. Storm phobias can include any change in the environment including lightening, changes in barometric pressure, change in the smell of the environment or electrostatic disturbances.

Aside from storms, there are several other noises that can result in a canine noise phobia. This includes gunshots, fireworks―especially around the Fourth of July in the United States―and more frequent or peculiar noise phobias, such as birds chirping outside the window.

What Are The Signs of Canine Storm Phobia?

Noise phobias are relatively easy to identify, especially in dogs. In fact, owners report that one of the most common sign of a storm phobia is hiding whenever a storm occurs. Furthermore, many dogs may pace around the home or seek out comfort from their owner. Other dogs may try desperately to escape the noise―this could mean jumping through windows, running away, digging or even going through a wall. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your dog is safe during a storm, especially if he displays escapist behaviors.

Aside from these symptoms, some dogs may bark excessively or utilize other forms of vocalization such as whining or howling. Vocalization is also relatively common and can be annoying to you, the owner; however it is important to remain calm and not reward or punish your dog's storm-related behaviors.

Lastly, affected dogs may have other various behavioral or physical changes including, but not limited to: shaking, sudden or unusual loss of appetite, trembling, not following the owner's commands, dilated pupils, drooling, defecation, chewing, panting and urination.

Basic Tips for Dealing with Canine Noise Phobias

First and most importantly, you should never encourage your dog's fears. Petting your dog, hugging her and telling her "everything will be okay" only confirms her fears that something is wrong in the first place. That being said, also avoid punishing your dog for her fears, as this will also worsen the situation. Above all, whatever path you choose to take while treating your dog's noise phobia―stick to the plan.

You may want to start by having a conversation with your dog's veterinarian about devising a plan to deal with your dog's noise phobia. A good veterinarian will have several different recommendations when it comes to treating a noise phobia.

To start, your veterinarian may recommend putting your dog on anti-anxiety or anti-stress medications to help keep your canine calm during a storm. However, some medications may need to be given daily and it may be several weeks before you begin to see the effects of medications. On the other hand, your veterinarian may recommend medications that are only necessary when a storm occurs, such as Alprazolam, which can start working in as little as 30 minutes.

You can also make an effort to help your dog feel more comfortable during a storm by planning ahead to change the environment. For example, keeping an eye on the weather forecast and should a storm appear on the forecast, make a point to give your dog extra exercise that day. By giving her an extra workout, you'll help tire her out which can help keep her more relaxed when the storm finally occurs.

Whatever steps you take, just be sure to always follow through to ensure that your dog gets the help he or she needs. For some dogs, multiple methods may be necessary to ensure that the phobia is dealt with accordingly.

Additional Information

Pet Education: Fear of Thunderstorms, Fireworks and Noise Phobias

Roseville Vet: Storm and Noise Phobias in Dogs

Weather.com: Dog Care: Dogs and Thunderstorm Phobia