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Belgian Malinois & Thunderstorms — What to Expect

Belgian Malinoiss have low thunderstorm anxiety. They tend to handle storms well, though individual dogs vary.

Why Belgian Malinoiss Are Affected

Dogs detect storms through barometric pressure drops, static electricity buildup, and low-frequency rumbles inaudible to humans. Malinois are confident working dogs and most are unbothered by storms. Some may become alert or restless — their high drive makes them want to "do something" about the storm. Redirect with a training exercise or structured activity rather than trying to calm them.

What to Do

  • 1.Observe your dog during storms to learn their pattern
  • 2.Use white noise or TV to mask thunder
  • 3.Stay calm and matter-of-fact during storms
  • 4.Avoid leaving them alone during forecasted storms
  • 5.Talk to your vet about anti-anxiety options for severe cases

Risks to Watch For

  • Mild restlessness or clingy behavior
  • Self-injury from trying to escape or hide
  • Noise phobia can worsen with each storm if not managed
  • Static shocks from thick coats (rub with dryer sheet)

Belgian Malinois-Specific Note

Malinois are confident working dogs and most are unbothered by storms. Some may become alert or restless — their high drive makes them want to "do something" about the storm.

Thunderstorm Anxiety: Breed Comparison

Pug
high
Boxer
high
Chihuahua
high
German Shepherd
high
Great Dane
high
Border Collie
high
Australian Shepherd
high
Shetland Sheepdog
high
Maltese
high
Yorkshire Terrier
high
Doberman Pinscher
high
Weimaraner
high
Basset Hound
high
Beagle
high
French Bulldog
moderate
Boston Terrier
moderate
Pomeranian
moderate
Dachshund
moderate
Golden Retriever
moderate
Husky
moderate
Corgi
moderate
Shiba Inu
moderate
Collie
moderate
Labradoodle
moderate
Goldendoodle
moderate
Shih Tzu
moderate
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
moderate
Havanese
moderate
Miniature Schnauzer
moderate
Cavapoo
moderate
Cockapoo
moderate
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
moderate
Poodle (Standard)
moderate
German Shorthaired Pointer
moderate
Cocker Spaniel
moderate
Mixed / Unknown
moderate
Bulldog
low
Labrador Retriever
low
Bernese Mountain Dog
low
Rottweiler
low
Akita
low
Belgian Malinois*
low
Newfoundland
low
Cane Corso
low
Mastiff
low
Rhodesian Ridgeback
low
Australian Cattle Dog
low

* Your breed

Other Breeds: Thunderstorm Anxiety

French Bulldog

Moderate Anxiety

French Bulldogs have moderate thunderstorm anxiety.

Chihuahua

Storm-Anxious

Chihuahuas are among the more storm-anxious breeds.

Doberman Pinscher

Storm-Anxious

Doberman Pinschers are among the more storm-anxious breeds.

Pug

Storm-Anxious

Pugs are among the more storm-anxious breeds.

Belgian Malinois: Other Environmental Guides

💨

Air Quality

☀️

UV Exposure

🌿

Pollen

🤧

Seasonal Allergies

🐕

Shedding Season

👂

Ear Infections

✂️

Skin & Coat Care

🪲

Flea & Tick Risk

🦟

Mosquito & Heartworm

❄️

Cold Weather

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Belgian Malinoiss afraid of thunderstorms?▾
Belgian Malinoiss have low thunderstorm anxiety. Belgian Malinoiss have low thunderstorm anxiety. They tend to handle storms well, though individual dogs vary. Malinois are confident working dogs and most are unbothered by storms.
How do I calm my Belgian Malinois during a storm?▾
Create a safe den space (covered crate or interior room with blankets). Play white noise or TV to mask thunder. Stay calm and act normal — dogs read your energy. Don't coddle excessively, which can reinforce the fear. Talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication for severe cases.
Why do dogs sense storms before humans?▾
Dogs detect barometric pressure drops, low-frequency thunder inaudible to humans, static electricity changes, and shifts in ozone and petrichor scent. They can sense a storm 30-60 minutes before it arrives. Belgian Malinoiss notice these changes but typically handle them well.

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