Why does my dog act weird when it's windy?

Storms are a very common cause of phobias in dogs, but we often don’t think about the wind that can accompany storms and how that can affect our dog’s behaviour. Even without a storm, wind can be problematic for a lot of dogs. Wind carries scent in all different directions and over greater distances including unusual or worrying scent. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and are much more accurate with their scent compared to us. The most common phobia related to wind that we see, are dogs who have been startled by loud noises caused by wind. Sound can also be amplified in high winds. The wind can blow your dog’s coat/fur in different directions and may feel unusual for dogs who are touch sensitive. An increase in wind speed will result in reducing air pressure, and dogs can often sense the drop in barometric pressure that comes with changing weather.

Dogs appear to enjoy the wind and become more playful and boisterous, whereas horses act as if they are afraid of it and are more prone to bolting or shying. This may be the difference between predator and prey - strong wind brings unfamiliar smells from far away that might indicate danger to a horse, but opportunity to a dog. But as horses tend to bolt into the wind, that would take them towards the danger. It may be that the constant roaring of wind in their ears disrupts their situational awareness, and so makes them more prone to take flight at the slightest hint of danger.

Dogs experience the world through their senses, and when the wind blows, it amplifies their sensory experience. A dog's sense of smell is incredibly powerful, and a gust of wind carries a multitude of scents from miles away. The swirling air brings with it a symphony of odours – from distant animals and plants to the scent of changes in weather. This olfactory overload can trigger excitement and curiousity in your dog as they try to decipher the complex tapestry of smells. The sensation of the wind against their fur, the rustling of leaves, and the movement of objects in the breeze can trigger a dog's playful instincts. Your furry friend might feel compelled to chase leaves, run in circles, or simply revel in the sheer joy of being outdoors during the windy weather. The wind carries not only scents but also a medley of sounds. Rustling leaves, creaking branches, and the howling of wind create a symphony of noises that might be both intriguing and slightly unsettling for your dog. These unpredictable sounds can stimulate a dog's natural alertness and, in some cases, trigger a playful response. Dogs are known to be sensitive to atmospheric changes, and the wind often heralds a shift in weather conditions. A sudden drop in barometric pressure or changes in humidity levels can be sensed by your dog, even before you notice them. This sensitivity to atmospheric changes might create a sense of restlessness or excitement in your dog, as they react to the anticipation of an impending weather shift. Windy conditions can awaken these primal instincts, causing your dog to respond in ways reminiscent of their ancestral behavior. For example, the wind may trigger a dog's hunting instincts, leading them to become more alert, focused, and eager to explore their surroundings. Dogs, especially those with high energy levels, often need an outlet to release pent-up energy. Windy weather can serve as a natural stimulant, providing an opportunity for your dog to burn off excess energy through play and exploration.