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Need help to protect windows from outside dog when she gets frightened by thunder

13 years ago
I am purchasing a new home and the windows come very low to the ground. My brittany is outside in the daytime and if a storm comes she gets frightened. I try to make it home from work to put her up in her kennel but cant always make it in time. She will scratch on the windows if she gets frightened. I would like some ideas to put on the outside that would look good and not cost a fortune.

Comments (19)

  • 13 years ago
    Could you install a sheet of acryllic over them?
  • 13 years ago
    I think you can get dog proof screens put on the bottom half.
  • 13 years ago
    Would having a kennel/dog house on the covered patio area create a secure place for the dog to be sheltered from rain?
  • 13 years ago
    I do have a nice doghouse, but it doesnt seem to help. She gets terrified. The porch is covered also. Its empty now because we havent moved in yet. She has a covered porch now and is terrified so I am sure she will have the same problem at the new house
  • 13 years ago
    Why have a dog just to leave out in a storm. That's sad.
  • 13 years ago
    Bringing a dog in (unless you are home with them) isn't always the answer. We had a similar dog problem: if the dog was out during a storm, she would eat the outside trim off the door trying to get in. But if there was a storm and she was inside, she would eat the inside door trim off trying to get out. Now, no problem, since she is 15 years old and deaf.

    Wonder if you can play a recording of a storm when you are with her and work on desensitizing her.
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Just put a low and beautiful window planter box
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    lovely home !!! we had a dog who we caught damaging the same spot of fencing - we hid and every time he went near it we sprayed him with the garden hose - he soon associated doing that got him wet and he stopped !!
  • 13 years ago
    To Tim; How judgmental. Pretty easy comment. Lucy is a French Brittany. She was bred as a bird dog. She loves to be in the yard and run and she points for hours at squirrels, etc. As far as being inside. Her kennel is inside and she sleeps inside every night. Unfortunately I have to work. I dont want to leave her confined for hours. (The last time she she was out of her kennel inside for anytime, she got in the middle of my bed and tore up the down pillows). Lucy is nine years old. She has never missed a vet appointment and we love her trememdously. If I could quit work and stay home with her I would, but Im sure she would still prefer being outside. So the next time you want to make a snide remark why dont you wait until you have the facts. Oh wait a minute. You probably dont care whether you have the facts or not . What are you doing on this forum anyway? There are a lot of mean spririted forums out there.
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    hi - I don't know how you feel about a dog flap ?! would that help ?! ( I guess it depends on the size of the dogs ?! ) our spaniel is happy going in and out on his own - the boot room is locked internally so anyone trying to climb in wouldn't get far !
  • 13 years ago
    last modified: 13 years ago
    I know this is probably not what you are looking for, but dogs are pack animals and are comforted when left alone for long stretches by the presence of another dog. Just a thought. It's one of the reasons we have two. They keep each other out of trouble, even though we keep them in the house in our kitchen-great room area when we are away.
  • 13 years ago
    I agree with the acrylic sheet idea, preferably on some kind of hook or clip so you can remove it when needed. The acrylic will probably get scratched and become unsightly so you'll want to be able to take it down for company, weekends etc.
  • 13 years ago
    last modified: 13 years ago
    Being part of a pack isn't always the answer either. Our trim eating dog (now 15 years old), see above, had two other dogs with her. That didn't help, she simply freaked out at the sound of thunder!

    I am intrigued by "the thunder shirt" someone above mentioned.

    But, agree it in nice to have two dogs when you have to be away working. Just have to be careful selecting the right second dog to bring in!
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Have you considered treating the windows like a Juliette balcony? It might look funny with them being so low, but its a thought.
  • 13 years ago
    Enter "screen door pet guard grille" into your Internet browser for some ideas to protect your windows.

    The "thundershirt" is a weighted "shirt" for the dog to reduce anxiety. Go to www.thundershirt.com

    (The same principle is used for special needs children. A weighted vest (about 1 pound) is worn by the child during trying times, and put away when the child does not need the extra weight and pressure. Think of it like a wearable hug.)
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    I could do with a 'wearable hug' somedays !!!
  • 3 years ago

    One option to consider is installing window film or a decal on the lower portion of the windows. This can help obscure the view for your dog, which may help reduce her anxiety during storms. There are many different types of window film and decals available, ranging from frosted glass to decorative patterns. You can even find window film specifically designed to reduce glare and heat from the sun, which could be helpful if your dog spends a lot of time outside during the day.

    Another option is to install shutters or blinds on the outside of the windows. This can provide additional privacy and reduce the amount of visual stimulation your dog experiences from outside. You can find affordable options at home improvement stores, or consider looking for used shutters or blinds at a salvage yard or online marketplace.

    If you're looking for a more natural solution, consider planting bushes or trees in front of the windows. This can provide a physical barrier that may help reduce your dog's anxiety, and can also add visual interest to your yard. However, keep in mind that planting large trees can be expensive and may take years to grow to full size.

    Ultimately, the best solution will depend on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the specific needs of your dog. It may be helpful to consult with a professional landscaper or window treatment specialist to explore all of your options and find the best solution for your situation.