As a pet parent, it’s likely that you will experience situations when your dog feels anxious. Whether it’s because of visits to the vet or raucous celebrations, anxiety can develop unwanted habits and behaviors if left untreated. But how do you know if your dog has anxiety?
In a previous blog post, we talked about the different signs to pay attention to if you think your dog has anxiety. These signs can be pretty evident when dogs are put in social situations where they seem uncomfortable and hesitant to interact with others. Some of the most common signs of dog anxiety include:
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Excessive barking/whining
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Shaking and trembling
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Frequent unwanted “accidents” (peeing or pooping where they shouldn’t!)
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Aggression
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Restlessness
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“Escape” behavior
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Destructive behavior
Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to calm your anxious pup. If you think your furry friend is displaying anxious behavior, try the tips that we have provided below.
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Get to know your dog’s body language - It’s no secret that there are multiple ways to deal with dog anxiety. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when dealing with anxiety triggers as dogs are different from one another. The best course of action to take is to pay attention to your dog’s body language. Only then can you identify certain behavioral patterns that trigger their anxiety which would help you determine the right strategy to calm them down.
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Get plenty of exercise - Regular physical activity and stimulation are sometimes the best way to calm down your anxious dog. Exercise burns off extra energy that may contribute to your dog’s anxiety. Going out and getting some sun also encourages socialization which could promote a happier mood!
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Soother your pup - Some anxious dogs may benefit from physical contact. Soothing your dog reassures them that you are there for them and makes them feel loved. If you think your dog is experiencing anxiety, you can comfort them through pets and cuddles. This method is especially useful during stress-induced anxiety like loud noises or being around strangers.
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Know when to seek professional help - Sometimes, exercise and positive reinforcement just won’t cut it. Some very anxious pets may need additional help in order to deal with their anxiety. Speaking to your vet would enable you to rule out any health issues and help you find ways to deal with your dog’s triggers. Once you’ve ruled out illnesses, you can also try seeking the assistance of behavioral specialists that can help address your pet’s anxieties.
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Try supplementing their diet - Another way that you can combat your dog’s anxiety is to provide calming treats. Calming treats are non-medicinal remedies specifically formulated to soothe your dog during episodes of anxiety. From separation anxiety to visiting the veterinarian, calming treats should be able to help your dog manage stressful situations. Before anything else, make sure to talk to your vet about the proper dosage to give your pup!
