Sponsored By:

🐾 Start your day on the right paw…

… and see the world through your dog’s eyes 🐾

7 Ways to Calm Your Pup During Thunderstorms

For some of our pups, thunderstorms are what nightmares are made of. The loud crashes, flashing lights, and changes in the weather can cause so much stress and anxiety for our sensitive dogs. As dog moms and dads, we want nothing more than to ease their discomfort, especially since thunderstorms are something we have to live with. Here are 7 ways to help calm your dog during a storm.

1. Create a Safe Space

Having a dedicated safe space for your pup can help them feel secure and comfortable when a storm hits. This could be a cozy crate, a comfy bed, or a quiet room stocked with their favorite toys and blankets. Having these spaces and different options is especially helpful if your dog likes to hide during storms. A basement is also an ideal safe space since it can mute the sounds of thunder and rain.

If you know a storm is on its way, setting up in the bedroom (if your dog finds comfort there) can be a good idea. Grab a book, your favorite drink, and plan on hunkering down with your pup until the storm passes. If you cuddle and stay calm in the bedroom before the storm, it might help keep anxiety from escalating when the storm arrives.

2. Use Background Noise

Background noise is always a good idea to help drown out the sounds of the storm. There are a ton of options: calming or classical music (which is proven to help soothe pups), white noise, or even a box fan. Turning on the TV and putting on a show or a movie can also be a good distraction – especially if your dog enjoys those special dog TV videos meant for them!

3. Distract with Toys and Treats

If your dog can focus on something other than the storm, mentally stimulating toys are a great way to keep them occupied. Engage your pup with toys like lick mats, sniff pads, or puzzle treat toys. These toys stimulate the release of calming neurotransmitters and keep them distracted and feeling good. Plus, the benefits of mental stimulation can help your dog stay relaxed and content even after the storm has passed.

4. Provide Physical Comfort

If your dog enjoys physical touch, being close to them during storms can feel like everything they need at that moment. Some pups love curling up in your arms, while others may prefer just being near you. Talking to your pup in a soothing voice can also help. However, be mindful of your dog’s preferences—some might find extra attention overwhelming or anxiety-inducing (I once got bitten by my family dog during a storm—but that’s a story for another time!).

5. Try an Anti-Anxiety Shirt

An anti-anxiety shirt, such as a Thundershirt, can provide a calming effect similar to swaddling a baby or a bear hug from someone you love. These types of shirts apply gentle, constant pressure to your dog’s torso, helping to release endorphins and oxytocin. Try your best to put the shirt on your dog before the storm begins – it’ll probably be a bit tricky getting it on when they’re already scared.

6. Consider Medication or Supplements

If your dog needs more support, there’s no shame in exploring medication or supplements. Calming products, melatonin, and CBD are popular options that many dog owners swear by. Even if one type doesn’t work, another might. Sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error to find what works best for your pup.

If these options aren’t cutting it, medications like Trazodone, Xanax, or Gabapentin could be worth looking into. As always, consult with your vet to determine the best course of action and proper dosage for your thunder pup - whether you choose natural remedies or prescription medication.

7. Keep Yourself Calm

Lastly, with any of these techniques, keeping yourself calm is a must. As we know, dogs are incredibly sensitive creatures and pick up on our emotions, body language, and tone of voice. They look to us for reassurance, so remaining calm and composed helps show them that everything is okay. Avoid excessive fussing or babying, as this can reinforce their anxiety and that storms are a bad thing. Of course, you can be empathetic for your fur baby while still being calm and helping them get through the storm.

Do you have pups that hate thunderstorms? What helps them feel more at ease?

Rainy Day Must-Haves for Your Pup (and You)

Some of us live in parts of the world where rain is inevitable – with no way around braving the drizzle or downpour with our pups. If your busy schedule means mornings are your only chance to exercise your dog, rain or shine, you’ll need some gear to make those soggy walks more enjoyable. Especially for those prima donnas who act like they’re too good for the rain (ahem my dog looks at me like I’ve betrayed her trust and barks as if I could magically turn off the rain)! Here’s a roundup of rainy-day tools that can help your dog in the rain and make the experience easier for you, too.

Rain Jacket: A rain jacket is a must-have if your dog shivers or despises getting wet. Even if it’s just drizzling and not too cold, an uninsulated raincoat can keep your dog’s body warm and dry. For colder rainy days, insulated rain jackets will keep your pup both warm and dry. It’s fun shopping for your dog when there are so many options to choose from – bright colors, reflective materials, and even hoods. Plus, rain jackets help prevent that dreaded wet-dog smell!

Waterproof Harness: If a harness is part of your pup’s regular attire for walks, then you’ll definitely want to get a waterproof one. After a splash in a puddle or a roll in the mud, a soaking wet harness can be uncomfortable for your dog.

Booties: Booties are great for protecting your pup’s paws from harsh temperatures, rocks, and debris. They’re also good for rainy days if your dog isn’t a fan of wet sidewalks, grass, or puddles. If your dog lifts their paws as soon as they step foot into wet conditions, booties might be the solution.

However, don’t get booties solely because they look cute – make sure they serve a practical purpose and get your dog used to wearing them.

Quick-Dry Towels: After a rainy walk, quick-dry towels are a lifesaver. They help you dry off your dog quickly, reducing the mess in your home and keeping your dog more comfortable. Pro tip: Towel off your pup before they have a chance to do their ultimate wet-dog shake and splash water everywhere.

Portable Dog Paw Cleaner: Did you know there are portable devices specifically for cleaning your pup’s paws? These little gadgets are game-changers, especially for dog owners who deal with floors layered with dried dirt during wet or snowy months. They’re simple to use: just add water, insert your pup’s muddy paw, twist, and dab dry. It’s almost like magic!

This handy tool makes cleaning your pup’s paws after rainy days much easier and helps keep your floors cleaner. If your dog has sensitive paws, you’ll have to introduce the cleaner gradually, using lots of positive reinforcement and treats to make the experience as best as possible!

Personalize Your Dog’s Nutrition

Thank you to Royal Canin for sponsoring Daily Dig.

Cole’s Hilarious Wardrobe Malfunction

@deafcole

Who’s the real star of the show? #funny #doglove #dogsoftiktok #dog #fypage #fy

DOTD - Meet Doug and Sugar

Final Bark

Give Your Pup a Shout-Out!

Want to get your pup a shout-out in the next edition of the Daily Dig? Refer 3 friends to Daily Dig and you can get rewarded! Here’s how:

Click below to share with your friends

Enter your friend’s email (and don’t forget to let them know to look out for our email!)

Repeat and claim your reward!

A Special Message From Our Best Buddies

🐶 Is this your first time here?