Just like humans, every pup has its own personality, and that means they all react differently to stormy weather. While some dogs are terrified by thunder, lightning, and loud noises, others stay calm and barely bat an eye.
But there are certain breeds that pace, shake, bark, or hide under the bed when thunder rumbles. Thunderstorm anxiety is a very real issue that affects a large number of pets. But why are dogs afraid of storms?
Well, it may be due to sensitive hearing, past trauma, or a natural alertness to changes in air pressure and weather patterns. In fact, a study found that nearly 23% of dogs on average suffer from noise-related phobias, with thunderstorms being one of the most common triggers.
Whether your furry friend is terrified of loud noises or you’re hoping to avoid adding another anxious pet to the family, understanding which breeds stay calm during storms can make a big difference. From playing classical music or using white noise, to creating a safe, enclosed space or trying thunder shirts and anti-anxiety medications, there are plenty of ways to help your dog feel calm.
Let’s take a look at some of the dog breeds that stay calm during storms.
Dog Breeds That Stay Calm During Storms
1. Great Dane
Don’t let their towering size fool you—Great Danes are famously gentle and affectionate. PetMD mentions that they are nicknamed the “Apollo of dogs.” Great Danes are also among the tallest breeds, yet their personality is calm and even-tempered.
These laid-back giants are great for families, often choosing to lounge around the house rather than react to loud noises. That said, every dog is different, and some may still show signs of storm anxiety, especially if they’ve experienced past trauma or are sensitive to sudden changes in air pressure.
Providing a safe, enclosed space, playing background noise like classical music or white noise, and offering gentle reassurance can help your dog feel calm.
Though not overly energetic, they do need daily walks and room to stretch those long legs. Despite their intimidating look and powerful bite force of 238 PSI, they’re known as gentle giants who are usually friendly with kids and other dogs.
2. Greyhound
Known for being the fastest dog breed, Greyhounds can hit up to 40 mph!
But don’t be fooled. These dogs are famous for lounging just as hard as they run, earning them the nickname “the world’s fastest couch potato.”
Despite their athletic background, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-maintenance and relaxed. They’re calm, gentle, and often happiest stretched out beside you, sometimes belly-up with all four legs in the air. Their affectionate “Greyhound lean”—resting against your legs—is a classic trait of their loving nature.
Thanks to their calm demeanor, Greyhounds typically stay calm during storms. While individual dogs may still show signs of storm anxiety, this breed is generally less afraid of loud noises compared to others.
Just note: they have a strong prey drive, so they may not mix well with smaller pets like rabbits.
3. Newfoundland
Big, fluffy, and full of love, Newfoundlands (or “Newfies”) are one of the calmest and friendliest dog breeds around. Britannica states that they’re often called “nanny dogs” thanks to their natural patience and sweet demeanor with children.
Despite their massive size, Newfies are incredibly easygoing and affectionate. They enjoy being part of the family and usually get along well with other dogs and even strangers. Their calm personality also lets them stay under control during storms, especially when given a cozy, safe space and some comforting background noise.
Originally bred for water rescue, their webbed feet and thick coats make them natural swimmers—but on land, they’re typically more about cuddling than chasing.
4. Saint Bernard
With their calm and slow-moving nature, Saint Bernards are classic gentle giants. They’re low-energy, affectionate, and known for their patience, making them ideal family companions, especially for homes with kids.
While they may look imposing due to their size and deep bark, Saints are generally quiet and friendly. They’re not the type to overreact to loud noises, and their laid-back personality means they often handle stressful situations, like storms, with surprising ease.
That said, their strong need for companionship means they don’t like being left alone for too long—separation anxiety can be an issue if they feel isolated.
While not hyper or overly alert, they still enjoy playtime and attention and respond well to gentle, consistent training. A comfy, safe space and soothing background noise can help if they show any signs of thunderstorm anxiety.
5. Pekingese
The Pekingese may be tiny, but this little lion dog has a bold spirit and tons of affection for their favorite humans. They’re loyal, confident, and often quite opinionated—but when they feel secure and loved, they’re wonderfully laid-back at home.
These dogs can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long, so they thrive best in households where someone is usually around. Their small size and quiet nature make them a great fit for apartments, and they’re often content lounging near their people, even during loud weather or a storm.
Pekingese are smart, but their stubborn streak means training works best with patience and positive reinforcement. They can be great with kids, though younger children should be supervised to avoid accidental injury due to the breed’s delicate build.
6. Havanese
Friendly, playful, and endlessly loyal, the Havanese is a people-loving companion known for sticking close to their humans, earning them the nickname “Velcro dogs.” They thrive on interaction and don’t enjoy being left alone for long, so they’re a great fit for families or anyone home often.
Havanese are smart, social, and typically great with kids, other dogs, and even strangers. Their naturally calm and cheerful nature makes them easy to live with, and their adaptability means they’re just as happy in a small apartment as in a house.
This breed is also naturally quiet, rarely barking unless necessary—a big plus if you’re dealing with stormy weather or loud noises. They may be sensitive or have a little fear, but they respond well to comfort and gentle reassurance when the thunder rumbles.
7. Bichon Frise
With a cheerful personality and a heart full of love, the Bichon Frise is a joyful little pup that thrives on attention. This breed is full of charm and affection, often winning over everyone from neighbors to vets with their sweet nature.
Though playful and a bit independent, Bichons don’t enjoy being left alone. They’re prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to chewing, barking, or destructive behavior if left unattended for long periods.
They’re best suited to homes where someone is around most of the time.
Thanks to their calm temperament, small size, and minimal exercise needs, Bichons are great for apartment living. They’re generally not scared of loud noises, but they still appreciate a cozy, safe space and some soothing background noise if the weather gets rough.
8. Basset Hound
With their floppy ears, soulful eyes, and mellow vibe, Basset Hounds are one of the most relaxed breeds you’ll meet. Originally bred for tracking small game, today they’re better known for lounging on the couch than chasing anything.
Bassets have a naturally easygoing temperament and rarely get rattled, making them a calming presence in the home. Their mild emotional nature helps them stay steady, even during loud weather or thunderstorms, though a cozy enclosed space never hurts.
They’re sweet with kids, polite with other dogs, and generally happy to go with the flow. Their short legs may slow them down, but their nose are always working overtime. Just be prepared for a little stubbornness—training a Basset takes patience and a few extra treats.
9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for being affectionate, sociable, and eager to please. These happy-go-lucky pups thrive in homes where they won’t be left alone often, as they truly depend on human interaction and companionship to feel secure.
They’re incredibly friendly and make excellent family pets—tolerant, patient, and great with young children and other pets. Their calm, loyal temperament allows them to adjust well to different living environments and loud noises.
However, it’s best to avoid letting a Cavalier off-leash. Their strong sense of smell and curiosity can lead them to wander off after an interesting scent, which could put them at risk of getting lost or hurt. A fenced yard is ideal.
WebMD says that this gentle breed was once beloved by British monarchs like King Charles I and II, and it still carries that regal charm. This pooch is just as content snuggling beside you as they are meeting new friends on the street.
Conclusion
Storms can be unsettling for humans and dogs alike. But while we understand what thunder is, our pets only hear sudden loud noises and feel the shift in air pressure, triggering fear and stress they can’t explain. That’s why recognizing the signs of thunderstorm anxiety and knowing how to help your dog feel calm is so important.
Every dog deserves to feel secure, especially when the sky turns loud and unpredictable. Calm behavior starts with understanding, and when we listen to what our dogs are telling us—through their body language, barks, or shakes—we begin to create a world where they feel protected, no matter the weather.
