You may have heard that dogs have the ability to sense bad weather, such as thunderstorms and disasters like tornados or hurricanes. If you own a dog, you know this claim is not far-fetched, as they can indeed sense when a storm is approaching. They exhibit various behaviors, from barking excessively to seeking shelter, to ensure their safety during the storm. In this article, we will explore why dogs can sense bad weather, the scientific explanation behind this behavior, and the signs to look out for to predict an approaching storm.
Signs of a Dog Sensing Thunder From Miles Away
One of the first signs to watch for is when your dog seeks shelter unexpectedly. They may hide under the bed, come inside from outdoors, or go to their crate or bed when they typically wouldn’t. Your dog may also bark frequently to warn their pack about the approaching storm. Dogs that are scared of storms are more likely to seek comfort from their human by cuddling in their lap. Additionally, dogs may exhibit restlessness, pacing, and excessive movement, indicating their anticipation of a storm. If you observe these behaviors, check the weather forecast to see if a thunderstorm is brewing miles away.
Body Language
Here are some signs that your dog may exhibit when sensing thunder and bad weather:
– Alertness
– Barking
– Whining
– Shaking
– Cowering
– Dropping their ears
– Pacing
– Sniffing
Other Signs
These are additional signs that your dog may display when sensing a thunderstorm:
– Relentless barking
– Sniffing the air
– Hiding in a safe spot
– Seeking cuddles from you
History of Dogs Sensing Storms
Throughout history, dogs and other animals have been able to sense when bad weather and thunderstorms were approaching. Humans used to rely on animals’ peculiar behavior to predict an imminent storm. A notable example is the 2005 Tsunami that hit Sri Lanka and the coastlines of India. Eyewitness accounts revealed that animals, including household dogs, fled to safety. Dogs would refuse to go outside, seeking shelter to protect themselves from the impending severe weather. Dogs’ reactions to storms may also stem from their undomesticated days and their instinct to survive dangerous weather. Today, their behavior reflects their survival instinct and their need to protect themselves when they sense inclement weather.
Science Behind Dogs Sensing Storms and Thunder
Dogs employ all their senses to anticipate an approaching storm. They can sense changes in barometric pressure, which indicates weather changes. Dogs also perceive alterations in atmospheric heat, compression, and temperature, signaling the presence of a storm. Their heightened sense of smell enables them to detect the scent of rain and changes in the air before humans can. Moreover, dogs have superior hearing abilities, allowing them to hear different frequencies and sounds from greater distances. Their independent ears enable them to gather spatial information and depth more effectively than humans. Dogs can hear 20 times better than we can. Although there is limited scientific research on this topic, it is evident that dogs can hear storms long before humans can.
Training Dogs Scared of Thunder
While you cannot train your dog to sense when a storm is coming, you can address their fear of thunderstorms. Many dogs are terrified of thunder and exhibit shaking and cowering behavior until the storm passes. One approach is to reward calm behavior consistently throughout the year, even when there is no storm. This teaches them that being calm is rewarded and accepted. Providing a safe place for them during storms, such as an enclosed bed or covered crate, can also help. Playing soothing music or using anxiety wraps can drown out storm noises and make them feel secure. If these methods fail, you can use desensitization and counter-conditioning to train your dog. Gradually introduce them to the sounds of thunder and storms, starting at a low volume and increasing it over time. If your dog shows signs of fear, turn it off. The goal is to help them ignore or be at peace with storm sounds. Praise and reward them with treats when they are able to ignore the storm. The objective is to associate the sound of thunder with something positive.
“Man’s best friend has a sixth sense – they can sense and predict bad weather, including thunderstorms, long before we can.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Pay attention to your dog’s behavior: If your dog starts behaving differently, such as seeking shelter, barking excessively, pacing, or sniffing the air, it could be a sign that bad weather or a thunderstorm is approaching. Pay attention to these signs and be prepared for potential storms.
2️⃣ Understand the science behind dogs sensing storms: Dogs have heightened senses, including the ability to sense changes in barometric pressure, temperature, and electricity in the air. They can also hear frequencies and distances that humans cannot. This natural instinct is a result of their survival instincts and their ancestors’ need to protect themselves during storms.
3️⃣ Help your dog cope with thunderstorm anxiety: If your dog is scared of thunderstorms, there are steps you can take to help them feel more comfortable. Provide a safe place for them to go during storms, reward calm behavior, and consider desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques to help them become accustomed to the sounds of storms.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. How do dogs sense bad weather like thunderstorms?
– Dogs can sense bad weather like thunderstorms through changes in barometric pressure, temperature, and electricity in the air. They can also use their heightened sense of smell and hearing to detect changes before humans can.
2. What are some signs that indicate a dog is sensing a thunderstorm?
– Signs that indicate a dog is sensing a thunderstorm include seeking shelter, excessive barking, pacing and restlessness, sniffing the air, and displaying body language such as shaking, cowering, and dropped ears.
3. Why do dogs have the ability to sense storms and thunder?
– Dogs may have the ability to sense storms and thunder due to their survival instincts and ancestral connection to wolves. Seeking shelter and taking cover during bad weather was necessary for their survival in the past.
4. What is the science behind dogs sensing storms and thunder?
– Dogs can sense storms and thunder through changes in barometric pressure, temperature, electricity, and smells in the air. Their heightened hearing abilities also allow them to hear sounds and frequencies that humans cannot.
5. How can you train a dog who is afraid of thunderstorms?
– Training methods for dogs who are afraid of thunderstorms include rewarding calm behavior, providing a safe place for them during storms, using soothing music or clothing to make them feel secure, and gradually exposing them to the sounds of thunder through desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques.
