For a lot of Australian dogs, the first rumble of thunder means panic — pacing, panting, hiding, or trying to claw their way to safety. Storm anxiety is incredibly common, and the good news is you can do a lot to take the edge off.
Why storms are worse than they sound
It isn't just the thunder. Dogs also react to the drop in barometric pressure, static electricity in the air, wind, rain on the roof, and darkening skies — often becoming anxious before you even hear thunder. That's why some dogs seem to "predict" storms.
What helps most
- A pressure wrap. Gentle, constant pressure calms many dogs during storms. Put it on at the first sign of an approaching storm, before the panic builds.
- A safe den. An enclosed, covered space in an interior room (away from windows) gives your dog somewhere to feel protected. A den-style bed or covered crate is ideal.
- A calming diffuser. Running a dog-safe calming scent in their space through storm season keeps a baseline of calm.
- Mask the sound. White noise, a fan, the TV or music helps cover the thunder and the rain.
- Redirect nervous energy. A lick mat or snuffle mat gives an anxious dog something soothing to focus on.
What to avoid
- Don't force your dog out from their hiding spot — let them choose where they feel safe.
- Don't punish the anxiety. Reassurance won't reinforce the fear.
- Don't wait until mid-storm to introduce new gear — set it up on calm days first so it feels familiar.
Build the routine before storm season
The dogs that cope best are the ones whose owners prepared early. Get the den, wrap and diffuser in place now, and practise using them on calm days so they're second nature by the time the weather turns. For a step-by-step plan to get ahead of the season — including sound desensitisation — see our guide to preparing an anxious dog before the first storm. You'll find the gear itself in our Calm & Anxiety Relief range.
When to see your vet
If your dog's storm phobia is severe — self-injury, escape attempts, or extreme distress — talk to your vet about a behaviour plan. This article is general guidance, not veterinary advice.
Related reading: storms are one of the most common reasons dogs panic and run — make sure you know what to do if your dog bolts.