WaleedLike people, dogs can experience a variety of forms of fear, stress, and anxiety from time to time. But it is also possible to find out from time with the help of a vet. Other times, you’ve no clue, and you want to help him cope.
Before moving further, let’s learn more about a dog’s anxiety, its symptoms or causes, and how to calm an anxious dog.
About Anxiety in Dogs:
Anxiety is something that can grow and get worse and worse and worse. Anxiety can manifest itself in multiple ways, from whining and barking to shivering and whimpering. When anxious, you may also find that your dog becomes destructive or hostile. If not addressed correctly or on time, your furry friend may lose their appetite and become withdrawn entirely. Moreover, professionals say that it is harder to overcome when anxiety is more developed.
There Are 2 Types of Dog Anxiety;
- Behavioral
- Situational
Behavioral Anxiety: It’s the most common anxiety in dogs. Professionals reported that 14% of dogs suffer from it. The common cause of this type of anxiety is that they are afraid of being at home alone or separated from you.
Situational Anxiety: In this type of anxiety, your dog is afraid of something specific. It includes Storms, fireworks, or other loud noises.
Dog Breeds Which Tend To Have Lots Of Anxiety:
- German Shepherd
- Australian Shepherd
- The Border Collie
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Bichon Frise
- Vizsla
Common Signs of Dogs Anxiety:
- Pacing
- Excessive barking
- Drooling
- Panting
- Destructive behavior
What Are The Causes Of Anxiety In Dogs?
Well, there are many reasons for this, but the most common are:
- abandonment,
- fear of being home alone,
- loud noises,
- traveling,
- Being around strange people, children, or other pets.
It’s a severe condition and one of the main reasons owners get frustrated with their dogs and give them up. But there are a bunch of things you can do to help.
#6 Tips for Calming Anxiety in Dogs:
Exercise:
Just as physical activity is essential for you, it is also for your dog. Exercise is an obvious way to help them calm their mind and distract them from being alone. If possible, use exercise as a bonding time, and there is often an easy solution to exhausting your pet!
Fun Ways to Exercise Your Dog:
- Nose work games
- Take them to parks
- Hide and Seek for fun
- Swimming for the water-puppies
- Walk, jog, or run
Try To Engage With Them:
As mentioned earlier, aloneness is the common reason for anxiety in dogs, so be sure to provide your dog lots of love and attention when relaxed. If you catch them in a situation that typically makes them anxious, hand out lots of praise and treats.
Things That You Can Try:
- Distracted by delicious food
- Distracted by dispensing toy
- Embark on a full-scale workout regimen
Give Them a Schedule:
We know a timetable keeps us on track; what if we say it is also necessary for dogs with anxiety or without. You don’t need to suffer from their routine. All you have is scheduled time for feeding, walking, rest, and playtime. This way, your furry friend knows what to expect from each part of the day. Moreover, it will help them reduce the anxiety caused by the uncertainty of not knowing what to do with them.
Offer Toys:
Mentally exciting toys can provide a distraction for pets undergoing anxiety, hyperactivity, and boredom. There are several options available in the market, including:
- Chew toys
- Sensory textures or sounds toys
- Puzzle toys that release treats
All these toys not only distract them plus provide hours of entertainment. Moreover, they work as positive reinforcement for good behavior during a stressful or anxious time.
Natural Supplements:
Milk proteins containing natural supplements are suitable for anxious dogs that promote relaxation. They are most likely to be successful in mild to moderate cases.
Note* Before switching to any supplement, it’s good to consult with your veterinarian.
Give Them A Comfortable Space:
Extra large orthopedic dog beds are another perfect way to calm down your anxious furry friend. They allow them proper clean space to sleep and help relieve joint pain. If you’re confused about which dog beds are suitable for larger dogs or in what materials, we’ve listed some of our top favorite products below:
- Infrared Dog Bed Original
- Bully Bed Orthopedic
- Calming Faux Fur Round Bed
- Chew Resistant Dog Bed
- Round Sherpa Top Bolster Bed
- Orthopedic 3 Sided Bolster Bed
FAQ About Dog Anxiety:
What dog breeds have the most anxiety?
Shetland sheepdogs and mixed breed dogs are more prone to anxiety
How long can anxiety last in dogs?
It typically relies on the duration and intensity of the clinical signs of anxiety. Maybe take a month, a few weeks, or several years.
Is It True Anxiety Shortens A Dog’s Life?
It’s a prediction that dogs with anxiety have less lifespan and higher disease frequency.
How do I understand my dog has anxiety?
The only way is to analyze their behavior and find out the common signs:
- Cowering in the corner of a house.
- Digging
- Escaping the yard
- Destroying furniture
- Self-harm
- Excessive licking or chewing.
How Many Times Should I Take My Dog To The Vet?
Twice after every six months for physical checkups. This will help you track the early signs of any health issue.
Can Music Help My Furry Friend Deal With Anxiety?
Yes, one research found that classical music had an initial calming effect on dogs. If you have to go outside, putting on music can help keep your dog from getting too bored.
Do Dogs Have Anxiety Attacks?
A big “YES”! Just like us, dogs can also have panic attacks in certain circumstances.
Like humans, many dogs will experience anxiety throughout their lives. So, it’s necessary to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment options involved. I hope this guide will help you give your furry friend a healthy life.
Note* Before making any changes to your furry friend’s routine, consult your veterinarian.
