Von Liphier Dobermann

Dogs often develop fears during their life. The cause of these fears may have been a result of bad experiences or traumas in the past. One thing is for sure, your pet won't be able to overcome it if you don't address it.

Having you there when they are scared will be a great comfort to them. Unfortunately, many dogs are scared of a relatively common event: thunderstorms. Some dogs almost freak out when the storm hits and the thunder shakes up the sky.

If your dog, too, almost dies of fear whenever thunder rumbles, then you might fight the following advice quite helpful.

First: treats. Giving your pet some treats during thunderstorms will help plant an idea in their mind. They will slowly realize that during this fearful time you are there to keep them safe and happy. They will be able to overcome the fear with your help.

Over time they'll be able to associate thunderstorms with good memories with you. You can keep a bag of dog treats within reach when there's a storm coming and just give them treats once in a while.

Another aspect is to simply make your dog feel as comfortable as possible. You are his owner, and if he is visibly shaken, he will look to you for guidance. So stay calm and sit with him.

Simply be around your dog, have him lay by your foot or sit next to you and talk to them. It will take their attention off the storm, if they are busy with you.

And here is another idea: on a normal day, you can play sounds that are similar to thunder. Just play a tape or something like that.

Whenever you do so, make sure to be there for them. Don't just play the tape and leave. Be there for them and help them through it. That way, when there is a real thunderstorm, your dog will already be used to the sound.