Thunderstorm fear - Doing the right thing

It is just human nature to want to comfort a fearful dog, but this is not always the best for the animal, especially a mill dog.

Think about this, when your dog does something you approve of, what is your reaction? Most people pet their dogs and speak in a tone that shows the animal your approval.  Some people even hold small dogs close and cuddle them to show that they are happy with the dogs behavior.  When a dog is showing fear or anxiety, the first reaction is to cuddle the dog. . .but what are you really telling it? Are you giving the animal the impression that you approve of the behavior? Probably.

Mouse panicked at the first clap of thunder, barking and wide eyed shaking, but when she got no reaction from any of us and saw that no one else was worried, she immediately calmed down. A few claps later, and her only response was to look up. That was the time to give her all the praise and petting she wanted as that was the behavior we wanted from her.

Thunder storms are a major point of fear for many mill dogs. They become anxious and may pace or bark. This usually upsets the owners, and since the dogs read their owners emotions, the cycle escalates.

Here at Safehaven, we often have dogs who have never experienced a thunderstorm without being in a small confined "safe" cage. Their first reaction is to panic, but they often look to us for a lead on how to handle the situation. If they bark at the thunder, we simply call their name and tell them no in a calm voice. They may shake and shiver for the first few storms but quickly learn that this behavior gets them nowhere and also gets them no positive praise.

We do use thundershirts for the stubborn or senior dogs who need them, however, we do not cuddle and perpetuate the fearful behavior.

My point being, don't praise unwanted behavior even if that behavior is fear. Most dogs will come to realize that by watching you and seeing that you are not afraid or nervous, there is nothing to fear and will calm down on their own.

This may sound cruel to some people, but think about your options . . . have a dog who is terrified at every clap of thunder OR help your dog come to terms with summer storms and conquer their fear and gain confidence.