Does your dog keep you up at night during thunderstorms? Try these tips to calm them down
If your pup gets anxious during roaring North Texas thunderstorms, there are ways to help.
North Texas has already experienced a few storms this winter.. And the busiest part of storm season has yet to begin. Spring, specifically March and April, is severe weather season for thunderstorms and tornadoes.
If you lost sleep dealing with a stressed out pet, here are some ways you can calm them down in the future.
How to know if your dog is feeling anxious
If your dog is anxious, they may show signs of stress through the following signs, according to the American Kennel Club:
Growling
Whining or barking
Tucked ears
Raised tail
Lip licking
Yawning
Panting
Freezing
Pacing
How to help an anxious pup during a North Texas thunderstorm
Trista Miller, a professional dog trainer, suggests the following to calm down your dog:
Give your pet a safe space: a crate or a dark closet with blankets (weighted blankets can help too).
Create background noise: helping your dog to not hear the thunder will startle them less. Use white noise or even classical music.
Give your dog toys or treats: using toys that make your dog work for treats are a great distraction. You can even use dog-friendly CBD oil to relax them.