How to Protect Walls from Your Dog During a Storm

When storms roll in, many dogs become anxious or frightened, leading them to scratch, chew, or otherwise damage the walls in your home. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to know how to protect your walls while also comforting your furry friend. This guide will provide you with comprehensive strategies to safeguard your home and ensure your dog feels secure during a storm. How to Protect Walls from Your Dog During a Storm

Canine Behavior During Storms

Before diving into the protective measures, it’s essential to understand why dogs react to storms the way they do:

• Anxiety Triggers: Thunder, lightning, and changes in atmospheric pressure can trigger anxiety in dogs, causing them to seek comfort by scratching or chewing on walls.
• Seeking Safety: Some dogs may scratch walls as a way to “escape” or find safety, while others might do it out of nervous energy or stress.

Pro Tip: Recognizing the signs of anxiety in your dog can help you take action before they start damaging your walls.

Preparing Your Home: Preventative Measures

1. Use Wall Protectors

Installing wall protectors is one of the most effective ways to prevent damage from your dog’s anxiety-driven behaviors.

• Scratch Guards: Place clear plastic or vinyl scratch guards on areas of the wall that your dog typically targets. These are easy to install and can be removed without damaging the paint.
• Furniture Rearrangement: If possible, rearrange furniture to block your dog’s access to vulnerable walls during a storm.

Pro Tip: Apply scratch guards at a height that matches your dog’s reach to ensure maximum protection.

2. Provide a Safe Space

Creating a safe and comfortable environment for your dog during a storm can reduce their anxiety and protect your walls.

• Crate Training: If your dog is crate trained, make sure their crate is easily accessible and placed in a quiet, secure area of your home.
• Comfort Items: Place their favorite blankets, toys, or an item of your clothing in the crate to help them feel more at ease.

Pro Tip: Consider using a crate cover to create a den-like atmosphere, which can further reduce your dog’s stress.

3. Calming Aids and Supplements

Using calming aids or supplements can help manage your dog’s anxiety, reducing their urge to scratch or chew on walls.

• Thundershirts: These snug-fitting shirts apply gentle pressure to your dog’s body, which can have a calming effect during storms.
• Natural Supplements: Products like CBD oil, calming chews, or pheromone diffusers can help soothe your dog’s nerves.

Pro Tip: Introduce any new calming aids gradually before a storm, so your dog becomes accustomed to them and they have the desired effect.

During the Storm: Managing Your Dog’s Behavior

1. Distract Your Dog

Keeping your dog occupied during a storm can prevent them from fixating on their anxiety and damaging the walls.

• Interactive Toys: Provide your dog with interactive toys or puzzles that can keep them mentally engaged and distracted from the storm.
• Playtime: Engage your dog in play or training sessions during the storm to redirect their energy into something positive.

Pro Tip: Use high-value treats or favorite toys during these activities to maintain your dog’s interest.

2. Stay Calm and Reassuring

Your dog often takes cues from your behavior, so staying calm during a storm can help reduce their anxiety.

• Speak Softly: Use a soft, soothing tone when talking to your dog. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could exacerbate their fear.
• Physical Comfort: Sit with your dog, petting them gently to reassure them that they are safe.

Pro Tip: Try not to over-coddle your dog, as this can sometimes reinforce their anxious behavior. Aim for a balanced approach, offering comfort without excessive fuss.

3. Block Out the Storm

Minimizing your dog’s exposure to the storm’s sights and sounds can help reduce their stress and protect your walls.

• Close Curtains or Blinds: Prevent your dog from seeing flashes of lightning by keeping curtains or blinds closed.
• White Noise: Play white noise, calming music, or use a white noise machine to drown out the sound of thunder.

Pro Tip: Classical music has been shown to have a calming effect on dogs, making it a good choice during storms.

Post-Storm: Repairing Any Damage

If your dog has already caused some damage to your walls, there are steps you can take to repair it and prevent future incidents.

1. Assess the Damage

Inspect the areas of your home where your dog has scratched or chewed during the storm.

• Minor Scratches: For light scratches, sanding the area lightly and applying a fresh coat of paint might be sufficient.
• Deeper Damage: Deeper gouges may require filling with putty or a wall repair kit before repainting.

Pro Tip: Keep a small can of your wall’s paint color on hand for quick touch-ups after any incidents.

2. Reinforce Vulnerable Areas

Once repairs are made, reinforce these areas to prevent future damage.

• Add More Scratch Guards: Expand the use of scratch guards or place additional barriers in high-risk areas.
• Behavior Modification: Work on behavior modification techniques with your dog to address the root cause of their anxiety-driven actions.

Pro Tip: Consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist if your dog’s anxiety is severe or persistent.

Conclusion

Protecting your walls from your dog during a storm involves a combination of preventative measures, behavior management, and calming techniques. By understanding your dog’s behavior and taking proactive steps, you can minimize damage to your home and ensure your pet feels safe and secure. Remember, the key to success is preparation and creating a comforting environment that helps your dog cope with their storm-related anxiety.