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Dog Afraid of Thunderstorms?

April Showers may bring May flowers but they also brings thunderstorms! And if your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, you know how just how awful it can be for them.

Thunderstorms & Lightning can frightened some dogs causing them stress and anxiety

Schnauzers afraid of thunderstorms or the sounds of lightning can display all sorts of unsettling behaviors, depending on how severe their fears are.

Here are just some of the signs you may notice from your Miniature Schnauzer if he's frightened from heavy storms.

pacing
hiding
trembling
whining
drooling

And some behaviors can be more destructive like:

urinating & defecating in the home
destruction of property
physical endangerment

Calming a Dog During Thunderstorms

First of all, consult with your veterinarian. Your vet can prescribe some calming medications for your Mini Schnauzer. In the meantime, you can try some of these at-home remedies to help with your Schnauzer's stress and fear during the loud noises and roars of lightning and thunderstorms.

Create a safe place - Prepare a special area in your home where your Schnauzer can go to feel safe. A room that has no windows (like a bathroom perhaps) would be a good choice. Have a dog bed, blankets, and a favorite snuggle toy in there for your Schnauzer's comfort.
note: Don't lock your Schnauzer in his crate. Many dogs truly freak out during storms and could cause themselves harm by trying to escape their own crate.
Drown out the noise - Turn on a calming CD for dogs to help drown out the noises from the thunderstorm and help your Miniature Schnauzer relax. Or if your Schnauzer is in a bathroom, you can turn on the exhaust fan.
Comfort your dog to a certain extent - While you don't want o over-do-it, you should speak calmly to your dog and assure your Schnauzer everything is okay. If you are home during the thunderstorm, allow you Schnauzer to cuddle up with you on the couch. Turn the TV on and gently massage your Schnauzer while you ignore the sounds of the storms.
note: It's important that you don't over react to any of the loud roars of thunder yourself. Your Miniature Schnauzer will interpret this as there is something to be fearful of.
Use Calming Aids - Comfort Zone W/D.A.P. Diffuser can reduce or completely stop stress-related behavior including: barking, whimpering and whining, chewing, urination and defecation. It actually reduces or eliminates separation anxiety. Calms dogs during thunderstorms and fireworks or when left home alone.
Use other Distractions - If you can get your Schnauzer to play some indoor games or get him distracted by teaching him a new trick to earn treat rewards. Food and/or treats always trump everything else. And another way to get your Schnauzer to ignore the storm.
Body Wrapping - According to some experts body wrapping has a calming effect on the nervous system. Using this type of pressure to relieve anxiety has been a common practice for years.
Thundershirt for Dogs - Wearing a Thundershirt gives a dog a feeling of safety and comfort, allowing them to settle down and relax. Watch how Joe, the boxer reacts to thunderstorms before & after the Thundershirt.

Products to Help Calm Your Schnauzer's Fears

Spirit Essences Stress Stopper for Pets

Helps pets adapt and cope with abnormally stressful situations, such as car rides, thunderstorms & boarding. Also helps pets feel grounded and protected.

Relieve De Stress Herbal Remedy

For a drama-free day and for stress and anxiety provoking activities like traveling, separation, thunderstorms, grooming, vet visits, moving & more.

HomeoPet Anxiety TFLN for Dogs and Cats

A homeopathic remedy for relief from fear of thunderstorms, fireworks, & other loud noises. Helps to relieve restlessness, anxiety and unwanted stress-related behaviors.