How to Calm a Noise-Wary Dog

Some dogs, like some people, are more nervous or neurotic than others. Depending on his personality, your dog might be sent into a panic by thunderstorms, fireworks, or even just commotion in your home. Here are some tips and tricks to help owners of anxious dogs soothe their pet's worries away.

Don't play along
One of the worst things you can do for your panicked dog is agree with him. If he is shaking, panting, and trying to climb into your lap, do not commiserate with him, and do not use your "poor baby" voice. The dog will be convinced he really is in danger; otherwise, you wouldn't be so concerned. To calm your dog, you must be calm. In your normal speaking voice, say "Hey, Pooch, where's your ball?" Or, "Hey, fella, want a treat?" Your calm demeanor will show your dog that everything's fine.

Make more noise
White noise, that is. White noise may have a calming effect on your dog. During a storm, turn on the TV, the fan, the dryer, any or all of the everyday noises your dog is used to. Close the curtains and shut the door to the room he is in, and he can pretend he's safe in his den.


Pressure your dog to remove stress
It may sound unusual, but many dog owners swear by putting a tight t-shirt on their dog to calm it. You could use an old t-shirt that you already have, or if you feel like spending some extra dollars, you can buy your pooch a special shirt of his very own: the Thundershirt is specifically designed to hug your dog and apply all-over pressure to help him calm down, stop shaking, and even stop barking maniacally.

Sing your dog's troubles away
Dogs have been proven to calm down within 15 seconds of hearing the same music that lulls fussy babies to sleep. This video shows how lullabies recorded to the beat of a human heart work to soothe dogs just as well as human babies. It's called "music heartbeat therapy." You can even try a demo at CanineLullabies.com.