Why Does My OES Refuse To Go Outside In The Rain?

It’s pouring and your dog has to go potty. Problem is he hates the rain! Why? Most dogs do not like going out in the rain. Honestly can you blame them? Do you enjoy going out in the rain and getting wet? Well, ok, many of you here in Arizona probably welcome the chance to walk (or dance) in the rain as it is a rare occurrence for us.

3 Common Reasons Why Your Dog Doesn’t Like The Rain:

1. Thunderstorm Phobia could most definitely be a precursor to the arrival of the rain. This can cause your dog to become anxious, pace and experience excessive panting. It is not really known why dog’s sense approaching storms but it does affect them. This could cause the apprehension felt when the rain arrives, not feeling comfortable going out into it.

2. Some say that due to the sound of rain being amplified it distorts the sound waves. This distortion tends to hurt the pups ears which are already sensitive. It is believed to cause the similar effect with creation of rainbows.  Additionally, it’s believed that up to 20% of all dogs develop a phobia to sound and not just sounds like firework and Thunderstorms – rustling of leaves, ceiling fans, and the crinkle of garbage bag can bother your dog too.

3. Some dogs don’t appreciate the pelting rain hitting their bodies. This is especially true   if you have an anxious or sensitive dog. The rain can be distracting and being pelted while trying to potty can scare them.

There You Can Do To Comfort Your Pup:

By trying these things, you can make going out in the rain a more tolerable and maybe eventually enjoyable experience:

– Go out with them. You being with your dog (anywhere) boosts his confidence and makes him feel safe. Don’t just open the door and tell him to go out, join him.

– Try using an umbrella. This will keep him dry and keep the tapping rain from hitting his body. You can’t go wrong with an umbrella. There are even these fantastic little umbrellas that attach to your dog’s harness!

– Rain gear is very helpful for some dogs. If your dog likes wearing sweaters, boots and clothing give this a try. Again it will keep him dry and he can accomplish hi business.

– Stick cotton balls in their ears This has been known to help cut down on the loudness of the rain to them.

In any case, just keep in mind that we Arizonaians might be doing a rain dance, but many pets are on a bladder strike until it passes. Leaning about how to overcome the causes of your dog not liking the rain might come in handy some day!

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