What can you do help a dog that is frightened by thunder?

A couple of options: give her a dark place to go - a crate or bathroom, away from windows. Put some blankets in with her, maybe a bone to chew on, and leave the area dark. Or you could just let her sit near you - at your feet or next to you, but not on to of you.

The biggest thing will be ignoring the behavior. Dogs do not take "reassurance" as we do - any petting, cuddling, talking ("oh it's okay, it's okay, you're fine") can be seen as ENCOURAGEMENT and will only encourage the dog to continue the behavior. YOU fussing also give the dog, which looks up to you, another reason to be frightened.

So just be with her or give her a place to retreat to. Otherwise ignore her. Some people say play a game, but again - trying to play a game is something rewarding and done at the wrong time could encourage the behavior.

Don't anticipate a storm, either. If you freak out and start running around then the dog will also become worried and frightened. I would keep your dog's "safe area" together so you don't have to arrange it before a storm (the dog could see this behavior as a precursor to a storm.) Stay calm and ignore her behavior AND the storm outside.

Get a tape with thunder/rain playing. Start playing it very low for about 30 minutes a day. Gradually increase the volume over a number of days. Once it is loud like a real storm, your dog will be fine.

I had a dog who was incredible & loving in every way but never got over her fear of thunder/lightning in all her 16 years. She would shake & shudder & hide & unfortunately nothing ever helped her overcome her fear. I know that's not much help, I just want you to know that it doesn't mean there's anything wrong with your dog or that she can't have a happy existence even though it is hard to watch your loved pet go through such things. Sometimes all you can do is be reassuring & loving.

My friend has a dog with this problem. Just keep your dog close and talk to it in a calm voice. Now I don't mean pick her up and baby talk, don't be extreme. Just play it cool and make her comfortable. If your pet knows you're calm they'll pick up on it, and feel more relaxed.

Hope that helps :)

I put my two beagles in my room with the lights on and I turn music up quite loud so it blocks out the sound of thunder. They go right to sleep

try plying with her.