Thundershirts for dogs: do they really work?
This article is written by Pet Circle veterinarian,
Does your dog suffer from anxiety, such as separation anxiety, perhaps as you return to work following COVID restrictions, fear of loud noises such as storms or fireworks or general fearfulness?
Just like in humans, our dogs can experience stress and anxiety which manifests differently in different dogs. Along with calming supplements, calming diets and pheromones, another strategy to consider is the use of a Thundershirt.
Contents:
What is a Thundershirt?
How does it work?
How to use a Thundershirt
Anxiety in Dogs
What is a Thundershirt?
A Thundershirt is a vest worn by the dog which applies constant, gentle pressure to the soft tissue which helps to reduce anxiety and promote feelings of relaxation.
ThunderShirts are recommended by veterinarians and veterinary behaviourists as a tool to help with treating common fears and anxieties including storm phobias and separation anxiety.
How Does a Thundershirt Work?
Studies on animals and humans have shown that pressure applied to the sides of the body can reduce stress and promote calm behaviours. A study in 2014 by Temple Grandin and other veterinary behaviour experts found that the ThunderShirt is effective in lowering heart rate in dogs diagnosed with separation anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder1.
The ThunderShirt has also been demonstrated to help lower signs of anxiety and fearfulness in dogs under simulated thunderstorm conditions. Dogs wearing the thundershirt were less likely to hide or display behavioural signs of anxiety. A survey of 149 veterinarians conducted in 2011 found that over 98% reported success when using the ThunderShirt to manage anxiety and fear in canine patients.
Benefits of The ThunderShirt
- Safe
- Effective
- Drug free
- Affordable when compared to medications and training
- Scientifically supported
- Versatile, can be used for many purposes
Do Thundershirts work for barking dogs?
Anxiety is often a trigger for excessive barking in dogs, and in these cases, a Thundershirt is an excellent way to reduce the anxiety and promote feelings of calm. There are many other reasons for excessive barking in dogs, and for more information, take a read through How to Stop Your Dog Barking.
Does the Thundershirt work for Separation Anxiety?
Yes, absolutely! Separation anxiety commonly presents as excessive barking, howling or crying, inppetance, inappropriate toileting and destructive behaviours when a dog is left alone. A Thundershirt is a drug-free way to help calm your dog's anxiety and reduce these behaviours. A Thundershirt can safely be used in combination with other strategies to calm your dog.
How to Use a Thundershirt
For most dogs and cats there is no training necessary when using the Thundershirt. Simply put the shirt on as described in the instructions and you will most likely see the effects. For some animals it may take a few uses to see the best results. If your pet is experiencing extreme symptoms of anxiety you should consult with a trainer, behaviourist or veterinarian as to how to incorporate the ThunderShirt into their treatment.
How to Put on a Dog Thundershirt
To begin with, it is recommended to fit the Thundershirt for the first time when your dog is not anxious, so that they can be introduced to it while calm and comfortable. It also can be a good idea to place the Thundershirt with other clothing in your laundry basket, so it smells familiar to your dog. When you first fit the Thundershirt, make sure you give your dog lots of treats and praise, to make it a really positive experience for them.
- Placing the main body of the shirt along your dogs back, then securing the neck strap (this strap is simply to hold the Thundershirt in place and should not place any pressure on your dogs neck).
- Wrap the long flap under your dog's torso and secure it to the short flap.
- Wrap the top flap down and secure it for a snug fit - not too tight, just comfortable pressure.
Can dogs wear the thundershirt on walks?
Yes, dogs can definitely wear the Thundershirt on a walk. However, on very hot days, we would recommend that your dog does not wear their Thundershirt while walking due to the risk of overheating.
How long can a dog wear a thundershirt?
The Thundershirt can be left on for extended periods of time. However, the first few times of wear, it's best to remove it every 1-2 hours to check for any signs of irritation. If using the Thundershirt for extended periods, it is recommended to remove it at least twice a day.
How to size a thundershirt for dogs?
Sizing is determined by measuring your dog's chest circumference just behind their front legs. Take a look at our Thundershirt size guide on our product page.
Can a dog sleep in a thundershirt?
If required, your dog can sleep in their Thundershirt.
Anxiety in Dogs
Along with other products and strategies, a Thundershirt can be a very useful addition to reduce your dog's anxiety levels. For more information on other strategies, take a read through some of our other articles:
Want to know more? Check out our Discover Page for more tips from our expert vets on keeping your pets happy and healthy.
Sources:
1. Camille King, Laurie Buffington, Thomas J. Smith, Temple Grandin, The effect of a pressure wrap (ThunderShirt®) on heart rate and behavior in canines diagnosed with anxiety disorder, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 9, Issue 5, 2014,
Pages 215-221,
ISSN 1558-7878,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2014.06.007.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1558787814000902)