There’s no scientific evidence proving why some dogs are more bothered by storms than others. In this article, the author posits that dogs feel the storm coming and offers ways to help them feel less stressed.
Sound only plays a small part in dogs’ overall fear of a thunderstorm. As the storm approaches, barometric pressure drops, making static electricity more common and something dogs want to avoid.
Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link.
Also see: Why dogs freak out during thunderstorms, Reader’s Digest, July 2023. Link
INSIGHTS: Barometric pressure reactions are often used to explain behaviors in pets, livestock and wildlife. The articles linked here offer some actions pet owners can take for their storm-sensitive dogs.