Your Puggle Before the Calm of the Storm

With spring being here and the many storms that come along with it, it is a good time to get your Puggle prepared for the loud thunder and crackling lightening. Many dogs have a fear of thunderstorms. It is not uncommon for your dog to have problems associated with phobias.

A dog’s ear is sensitive and specific sounds will frighten them. The quick onset of thunder is definitely one of those sounds. Because your Puggle is part Beagle family and Beagles ears tend to be more sensitive at hearing loud and unfamiliar noises, your dog may follow that same path.

Unfortunately, for you, trying to get them to calm down is like trying to get your toddler to calm down after waking up from a terrible nightmare. Fortunately, there are ways to calm your Puggle down from being upset over a storm.

First, you may want to pick your Puggle up and cuddle him to make him feel secure; however, don’t. This actually enables your dog’s thunderstorm phobia. You are making it known to your dog that it is alright to be afraid of this big and bad noise. It is alright to have your dog on your lap during a storm, but to overdo what you would normally do at any other time will only reassure your dog that the behavior is accurate to the situation taking place.

Second, you may want to keep your dog occupied during the storm. Consider keeping a bucket of dog toys put up and only brought out for special occasions such as thunderstorms. This will get your Puggle’s mind off of the thunder and big booming noises. Wrestle around with your baby and spend quality time with him.

Third, turn the radio up as loud as you can handle hearing it yourself. The noise from the radio will wash out the noise from the storm. Try playing soft music over loud rock music, because it may defeat the purpose if the music is too loud such as heavy metal or hard rock.

Finally, if, after all of these tips don’t work and after being consistent with them, you could call your Veterinarian and consider medication. I would only do this if it is your last resort for calming your Puggle.

Your Puggle has feelings and phobias that are much like us humans. Remember that they can be scared and will want you to comfort them. Be consistent with each storm and the way you comfort your dog. Eventually, they will calm down and get used to how they are supposed to behave during bad weather. And, whatever you do, don’t punish them for having these phobias!

Christy Taylor, author, is the proud owner of her own puggle and an in-house Puggle breeder. For more information on Puggles, visit her website at http://www.pugglehugs.com