Thunderstorms, fireworks and even heavy rain can turn a calm dog into a pacing, panting, trembling mess. Noise anxiety is one of the most common behavioural problems Australian pet owners face — and it tends to peak around New Year's Eve and summer storm season. The good news: there's a lot you can do to help. Here are eight approaches that genuinely make a difference.
1. Give them a safe den
Frightened dogs instinctively look for small, enclosed spaces. A covered crate, a bed with high sides, or a quiet interior room away from windows gives your dog somewhere to feel protected. Never shut an anxious dog in — the door should stay open so the space feels like a choice, not a trap.
2. Muffle the noise
Close windows and curtains, and add steady background sound — a fan, white noise, or calm music — to blunt the sudden bangs that trigger panic.
3. Try gentle pressure
Snug, even pressure has a calming effect on many dogs, similar to swaddling an infant. A well-fitted anxiety wrap applies that reassurance without restricting movement.
4. Stay calm yourself
Dogs read our body language closely. Speak normally, move slowly, and avoid over-soothing — big reassurance can accidentally signal that something really is wrong.
5. Redirect with licking and sniffing
Licking and sniffing are natural self-soothing behaviours. A lick mat smeared with something tasty, or a snuffle mat with hidden kibble, gives an anxious dog a productive job to focus on.
6. Use calming scent
Dog-appeasing pheromone diffusers release a gentle, dog-safe signal associated with feeling settled. Plug one in an hour before a storm or fireworks are forecast.
7. Prepare before the event
Walk and feed your dog earlier in the day so they're relaxed and less full of energy when the noise starts. Bring outdoor dogs inside well ahead of time.
8. Desensitise over time
Between events, play recordings of storms or fireworks at a very low volume while rewarding calm behaviour, slowly increasing the volume over weeks. Done gradually, this can reduce the fear response long-term. Our full guide to preparing your dog for storm season walks through how to do this properly on calm days, before the weather turns.
When to talk to your vet
If your dog hurts themselves trying to escape, won't eat, or the fear is getting worse, speak to your vet. Severe noise phobia is treatable, and your vet can discuss behaviour plans or medication for the worst nights.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different — check with your vet before starting anything new.
Browse our full Calm & Anxiety Relief range for gear that helps anxious dogs feel safe.