Dogs And Storms

#AlphaDogTraining #dogtrainingsaltlakecity How to Calm Dogs During Fireworks Published by Alpha Dog Training https://alpha-dog-training-slc.com How to Calm Dogs During Storms There are several strategies for calming a dog during a storm. • Stay Calm: The best thing to do is to remain calm around your dog during a thunderstorm. Making a big fuss around the dog only proves to him that there is a good reason to panic. Dogs look to us for reassurance. So, showing your dog we are calm and relaxed is likely to help the dog understand there is no real danger. • • Create a Safe Space: Give your dog a safe indoor space to go when he’s scared. If your dog is crate-trained, he may feel most secure in his crate with a nice chew toy to occupy his time.

Cover wire crates with a blanket to help absorb the sound and leave the door open so he doesn’t feel trapped. If your dog doesn’t have a crate or isn’t used to it, try creating a safe place elsewhere. Scope out a calm place in your home where you can set up your dog’s bed during the thunderstorm. Consider giving him a treat-stuffed toy to make the occasion positive. Close the blinds or curtains of any windows so he can’t see outside. • • Distract Him: If your dog is afraid of thunder, turn on the TV or calming music to drown out the noise. If he’s feeling playful, grab his toys and have some fun with him. Be sure to reward him with his favorite treats, too. Really, do what you can to create positive associations with the sound of thunder. • • Prepare for the Next Storm: Try desensitizing your dog to the sounds of thunder. Play those sounds quietly in the background as you play games. Do this around the time when good things happen, like dinner, play time or going for a walk. If your dog is reacting in a positive manner, then you can gradually increase the volume of the noises at a pace that your dog is comfortable with. Over the course of a few weeks to months, this can help him associate the sounds of thunderstorms with happy times. • • Talk to Your Veterinarian: Your veterinarian is the best person to talk to when it comes to dogs and thunder. They may recommend a vest, shirt or wrap that applies light, constant compression. This can help alleviate anxiety (similar to calming a baby with swaddling). If your dog’s storm anxiety is severe, ask your veterinarian for alternative remedies to help him feel calmer. They may recommend a product like Calming Care, particularly if you live in an area prone to thunderstorms. Remember to practice positive reinforcement with your dog. Don’t scold or punish him for his thunder phobia—his behavior is the result of fear, not disobedience. Teaching your dog new and pleasant associations is the best way to calm a dog during a storm.