As the winter approaches and the bad weather in the UK starts, many dog owners out there will be concerned about how their dog reacts to this extreme weather. Whether it is thunderstorms or just heavy rain, the enhanced sounds and light can cause stress to your pup in varying forms.

Here is a guide to support your dog in these anxious times to try and make them feel safe and calm. Hopefully this winter can be a little less stressful for both the dog and you as the owner.

 

1. Using Calming Music or Sounds

• A simple search of ‘calming music for dogs’ on Spotify is a great place to start. Here is my recommended playlist: HERE. These playlists create a calming and relaxing environment for your dog.

 

2. Getting your dog used to the sound of thunderstorms

• This is a slightly riskier technique but can prove incredible valuable on some dogs. Playing recordings of thunderstorms at a very low volume can often get your dog to become used to the sound over time. Then when a real thunderstorm takes place, the sound and senses aren’t completely shocked. I would highly recommend keeping close to your dog as you try this and reward them through treats, so that they begin to associate the sounds with a positive experience.

 

3. Making their ‘Safe Space’ even safer

• Fortunately, we have a pretty accurate idea of when heavy rain or thunderstorms are forecasted to be thanks to weather apps. When you hear that these are forecasted, make their bed area even cosier than before! Fill it with their favourite blankets, toys, or socks! This will make them feel comforted and prepared for when the weather comes…

 

4. Start using natural supplements to help relax your dog

• Natural supplements can be a great way to reduce your pup’s anxieties in all nervous situations. PAWD Calming contains natural, herbal ingredients such as passionflower and melissa to naturally relax your dog in stressful situations. With a natural supplement, it is recommended to use consistently over a period of time, rather than being reactive and only using as one-offs. The benefits of a liquid supplement are that the key ingredients can be absorbed incredibly effectively by your dog to provide relief during these extreme weather conditions.

 

Heavy rain and thunderstorms can be incredibly frightening for dogs. To reduce this stress, these slight adjustments could make a huge difference to them. From putting on that relaxing playlist, to giving you pup PAWD Calming on a daily basis, you can support your dog to help reduce their stress.

 

If you have any further tips on how to relax your dog during exteme weather, please do let us know!