It's possible that your dog's behavior during heavy rain and thunderstorms is a combination of both fear and feeling cold. Let's explore these two possibilities:
Fear and anxiety: Many dogs are afraid of thunderstorms due to the loud noises, flashing lights, and changes in atmospheric pressure. This fear of storms is known as astraphobia or thunderstorm phobia. Dogs may seek comfort and security from their owners during these times, which could explain why your dog runs to you and hugs you. Shivering can also be a sign of anxiety in dogs.
Feeling cold: Depending on the temperature and the breed of your dog, it's also possible that the rain and cooler weather are making your dog feel cold. Some dog breeds have thinner coats or are less tolerant to cold weather, and they may seek warmth by hugging or snuggling with their owners. Shivering is a common response in dogs when they are trying to warm up.
To determine the primary cause of your dog's behavior, observe its body language and overall behavior during rain and thunderstorms. If your dog appears restless, anxious, or exhibits other signs of fear, it's likely that fear is the primary driver for its actions. On the other hand, if your dog seems more focused on seeking warmth and comfort, feeling cold might be the main reason.
To help your dog feel more secure during storms, you can create a safe space for it indoors, away from windows and other sources of noise and flashes. Providing a cozy bed or blankets might also help with any potential coldness. If your dog's fear during storms becomes severe or significantly impacts its quality of life, consider consulting a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer who specializes in anxiety issues to address the problem.
Always keep an eye on your dog during severe weather conditions and make sure it has a safe and comfortable environment to reduce its stress and anxiety.