If your dog starts shaking the moment thunder rolls in or disappears under the bed when fireworks begin, you're not alone. Noise anxiety is one of the most common behavioral issues veterinarians see in dogs, and experts say it often gets worse if left untreated. Summer brings more thunderstorms, neighborhood celebrations, outdoor concerts, and construction projects across the U.S., making this the season when many pets struggle the most.
Unlike humans, dogs hear a much wider range of frequencies and can detect sounds from much farther away. Some can even sense changes in barometric pressure before a storm arrives. That means your dog may begin pacing or hiding several minutes before you hear the first clap of thunder.