[CertainlySpoiled]

Elle doesn't mind the thunder, she just walks to the window and looks for the sound, but Emma on the other hand, has to bark at every clap of thunder. I know she isn't scared of it, but it makes her mad and she wants to find it and get it, we try calming her by speaking softly to her and rubbing her chest (her fav spot to be rubbed), but as soon as another thunder comes, she's right back at it barking and growling and showing those big teeth, we even try to put her in her crate thinking that will calm her, but that makes her worse.

Any tips on how to help her? Anyone else have this problem?

Thanks!

 

[Skye'sMom]

Hi, Jenniferky -

Unfortunately, speaking quietly and rubbing her chest are calming/reassuring gestures. You could be convincing her there is a threat from that loud noise, so she has to keep it up with each boom.

Instead, try this: after the first boom and bark call Emma to you and have her sit. Reward her for the sit and continue to do some obedience work or ball chasing or other fun game.

Keep you voice upbeat or at least normal (not calm and reassuring) and act very matter of fact. If she continues to bark at booms during these sessions, ignore it. Instead, give her another command or toss a toy, etc.

Distract her from the booms. After a few sessions this should get better.

Get your other dog involved, too. Emma should soon learn that thunder is just another part of life and she won't feel she has to warn you about every boom.

Good luck!

 

[CertainlySpoiled]

Thanks Bonnie, I never thought of it that way, but you are maiking a good point, I'll try it the next time we have a storm!!

 

[jake]

I guess after having a dog who so totally decompensated at thunder I am kinda happy Jake runs to and barks at storms.What I usually do is go out and 'Chase/bark/praise with him for a few minutes and then go inside after saying 'good job'We then do some inside obedience involving extra good treats.I then settle in and watch TV or read and if he is reactive say OK/enough.Seems to be working so far.