Thunderstorm season can be unsettling for our pets—especially dogs. While storms can happen any time of year, they’re most frequent from May through August. The loud thunder, flashing lightning, and barometric changes often trigger unease in dogs. Many pet parents notice behavioral changes like trembling, hiding, or even trying to escape. It’s only natural to wonder: What can help my dog stay calm during storms?
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Recognizing Signs of Stress in Dogs
Each dog responds differently to loud noises, but common signs that your dog may be feeling stressed include:
- Panting
- Trembling or shaking
- Dilated pupils
- Drooling
- Pacing
- Destructive behavior
- Increased heart rate
- Accidents indoors
In some cases, the stress from noisy environments like storms or fireworks can lead to risky behavior, such as crashing through doors or attempting to run away.
Creating a Calm Environment
- Provide a Safe Haven
Set up a quiet, cozy space your pet can access any time. This “safe zone” helps them feel secure even if you’re not home. - Minimize Stimuli
Close windows, curtains, and blinds to block storm sights and sounds. Try playing calming music or white noise to mask loud thunder. - Limit Guest Exposure
Avoid having unfamiliar people around during storms, which may amplify your pet’s unease. - Use Gentle Pressure Wraps
Swaddling your pet with a pressure wrap can promote feelings of comfort. Commercially available vests or even a soft bandage wrapped snugly (but not tightly) can work similarly to a weighted blanket for humans.
Natural Support for Calm Behavior
Some pet parents explore natural options to promote calm in their dogs during stressful events like thunderstorms. Botanical ingredients—particularly hemp extract and lavender—have shown promise for supporting the body’s natural stress response.
How Hemp Extract Supports Emotional Balance
Hemp extract interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate many bodily functions, including emotional responses. Certain compounds in hemp may influence serotonin pathways, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation.
A 2013 Neuropharmacology study highlighted the role of the ECS in supporting emotional balance and helping animals process stressful experiences. A 2019 study in The Permanente Journal further noted that hemp extract showed potential for promoting relaxation with a favorable safety profile.
Why We Combine Lavender and Hemp for Calm Support
Lavender has been traditionally used to promote calm. It contains a terpene called linalool, which is believed to support relaxation and help the body adapt to stress. In animal studies, linalool exposure was associated with more balanced behavior and stress resilience. When combined with hemp extract, these botanicals may work synergistically to support a state of calm during loud or unfamiliar events.
That’s why we formulated our tincture to include both hemp and lavender—an option some pet parents choose to include in their dog’s wellness routine.
Suggested Amounts for Calming Support
Every dog’s endocannabinoid system is different. What helps one dog feel calm may not work the same way for another. A general starting point is 9 mg of hemp extract given before a triggering event. If your pet still appears restless after 15–20 minutes, a second serving may be offered.
Importantly, size and weight do not always predict a dog’s ideal amount. Some small dogs may need more support than larger ones due to variations in ECS sensitivity. Start low, observe closely, and adjust as needed.
Extensive research has shown that hemp extract is well tolerated, even at high amounts. One study found that dogs tolerated up to 640 mg of extract with only mild side effects, such as temporary digestive upset.
A Personal Story
Meet Odie, a 12-year-old Miniature Schnauzer. Before incorporating calming botanicals into his wellness routine, Odie would tremble and cry whenever storms approached. Now, with the right support and a calm space, he can nap through even the loudest summer thunderstorms.
This is a personal experience and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Results may vary.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian before making changes to your pet’s wellness routine.
