Countless dog owners throughout recorded history have reported that their dogs seemed to sense storms before they occurred, barking or pacing and seemingly trying to alert their owners. Only when bad weather strikes shortly after do owners realize that their dog may have actually seen it coming! Can dogs actually sense tornadoes, storms, and other bad weather ahead of time, though?

In a way, yes, maybe they can. While there is little in the way of scientific studies, it is believed that dogs, as well as cats, have finely tuned senses that can detect minute changes in barometric pressure and electrostatic charges that precede a tornado, hurricane, storm, or any other type of bad weather. We can record these same variations with barometers and other meteorological equipment, but it appears dogs can naturally sense the weather without such things.

If you’ve ever wondered about how to tell when your dog is sensing a tornado or other bad weather, you’re in the right place. Join us below as we shed some more light on signs that your dog is detecting bad weather, how to keep your dog safe, and more frequently asked questions.

How Do Dogs Sense Tornadoes and Other Inclement Weather?

Dogs can sense nearly imperceptible variations in air pressure, like the dramatic plunges that precede tornadoes. Their sense of smell likely plays a role as well, as they may be able to literally smell rain before it arrives at your home. Over time, dogs learn that these signs mean a portentous storm is brewing. Loud noises like thunder and the wind associated with tornadoes can cause your dog intense anxiety and stress even before you know they’re happening, so try to be understanding of their fear.

Signs Your Dog Detects a Tornado

Dogs have a unique way of communicating that relies on body language “tells.” To learn how to tell they’re sensing a tornado or other bad weather approaching, you should watch out for some of the behavior below. It may not guarantee that a tornado is coming, however, since they don’t know the difference between a tornado and just a big storm. Be on the lookout for the below body language cues—a storm could be on its way.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe During a Tornado: Essential Safety Tips

When the worst happens and a tornado is sighted in your area, don’t panic! To be more prepared, refer to our pet storm preparedness tips and consider writing them down for faster future reference. You don’t want to be that person who doesn’t know what to do, so pay close attention!

Can I Train My Dog to Be Less Afraid of Tornadoes & Storms?

Desensitization training is highly recommended by vets and behavioral experts for helping dogs become less anxious when they sense storms. The foundation is counterconditioning, a technique that teaches your dog to associate negative stimuli (like storms or tornadoes) with a positive mental state.

Start by teaching your dog to “settle” or “relax” in a specific location, like their crate. Introduce your dog’s crate, bed, or mat, then let them check it out and wait for them to use it. When they do, say the “settle” command so that they begin to associate relaxing in the area with your command. If your dog is clicker trained, add a click too. Lastly, shower them with treats and ample praise when they obey. Throw in some white noise or “anti-thunder” music, like classical tunes, while you do this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Storm Shelters Allow Dogs and Other Pets?

It depends. FEMA shelters that temporarily house people displaced by storms typically do not allow dogs unless they’re service animals. Shelters run by your municipality, state, or private entities may have different rules, and we’re happy to report that some shelters are pet-friendly!

Search for the shelters nearest you and ask if they’re pet-friendly. If not, they likely know of a shelter that does welcome pets. If you’re unable to take your dog to your preferred storm shelter for any reason, we recommend asking friends, family or veterinarians in unaffected areas if they can temporarily take care of your dog for you. Do not leave them behind!

Are There Any Medications I Can Give My Dog During a Storm?

In extreme cases, your vet may prescribe dog-safe anti-anxiety medications that will help alleviate their distress. In most cases, your vet will recommend desensitization training, though they might prescribe the medication just in case while you work on de-escalating your dog’s fear of storms. Anxiety medications should only be used as prescribed by your dog’s vet to minimize side effects. In the long term, desensitization training is typically more effective at managing storm anxiety.

What Should I Include in a Pet Emergency Kit to Be Prepared for a Tornado?

Conclusion

Dogs can seem to tell when storms and tornadoes are coming likely by sensing the barometric air pressure dropping and the electrostatic changes beforehand, smelling the oncoming rain, or hearing the wind. They’ll tell you by pacing, whining, hiding, or cuddling up to your side. Don’t get caught unaware by a tornado. Instead, put together your pet emergency kit and establish a plan for what you’ll do in case a tornado happens near your home.

Featured Image Credit: smrm1977, Shutterstock