Anxiety is a normal experience that dogs have. The reasons behind an anxious dog differ for each, and while some have normal levels of anxiety, some have more serious issues. And as a dog owner, it’s important to understand the behaviors of an anxious dog to help their well-being.
There are many factors that can contribute to an anxious dog, like genetics, past trauma, medical reasons, and lack of stable home life.
But there are countless solutions to calming an anxious dog, among them: training, medication, create safe environments, and even diet and exercise.
Here’s how you can find out if you have an anxious dog, its causes, and what you can do to calm your pup.
What Causes Anxiety In Dogs?
There are different reasons for a dog to become anxious and here are some of the most common reasons.
Genetics
Some dog breeds are more prone to anxiety than others. High energy and intelligent breeds are normally more predisposed to canine anxiety. These breeds include German Shepherds, Basset Hounds, Siberian Huskies, Dalmatians, some Terrier breeds, and standard Poodles.
If you own any of these breeds, be sure to engage in activities and training that will prevent any anxiety to develop.
Trauma
This is especially true for rescue dogs. Such dogs may have developed trauma because they were abandoned, abused, or have had an unpredictable environment. Deep seeded trauma in dogs may require a professional trainer to help them get over their fears and anxiety.
Lack of Socialization As Puppies
There’s a reason why puppies need to be exposed to different environmental experiences and socialize with as many dogs and humans as possible. Puppies that lack such experiences don’t know how to behave around other people and animals or in different situations. This causes them to be easily fearful and anxious.
Separation
Some dogs are unable to cope with being left alone by their pet parents or family members. This causes them to feel anxious because they’re alone and this is also the reason why they’re so ecstatic when you come home.
Medical Reasons
Dog anxiety can result from medical issues as well. Illnesses like hypothyroidism, encephalitis, loss of hearing, and early stages of diabetes can all cause anxiety. For such cases, you need to visit your vet immediately.
Age
Aging can also bring about dog anxiety. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome, a disease similar to Alzheimer’s in humans, can lead to a decline in memory, learning perception, and awareness. The changes in the bodies as well as in their nervous system can cause confusion and anxiety in senior dogs.
Signs That Your Dog is Suffering From Anxiety
Aggression
A highly anxious dog can display overly aggressive behavior which can cause harm to humans or other animals. This happens when a dog has suppressed anxiety that’s been left untreated, it tends to boil over when triggered, usually with separation anxiety.
Barking or Whining
Vocalization through barking or whining is a common behavior of dogs. However, when it becomes excessive, it can be a symptom of anxiety. When this happens, it’s usually a way for dogs to get your attention or to soothe themselves.
Yawning or Licking
Normally, yawning is a sign of boredom or exhaustion. However, yawning is also a sign of stress or anxiety. You’ll know it’s anxiety-related when it’s a prolonged yawn. Meanwhile, excessive licking or drooling can be a sign that your dog is nervous.
Shaking or Pacing
When facing a situation they’re not comfortable with, an anxious dog will shake uncontrollably or pace around, just like people. One common situation when this happens is during a visit to the vet.
Hiding
To escape the situation causing their stress or anxiety, some dogs escape and hide behind their owners or to an isolated area far from the trigger.
Destructive Behavior
Chewing is normal behavior when dogs are bored but it can also be a manifestation of anxiety. Aggressive chewing on things and trying to bite and escape their crate are just a couple of destructive behaviors related to anxiety.
Tips To Calm Your Anxious Dog
Exercise
This activity is not only beneficial for your dog’s physical well being, but it’s also a way to spend time and bond with your furry friend. Having physical contact or using it as an opportunity is beneficial as it builds more trust between you and your dog. Setting a regular exercise schedule adds structure to your dog’s day, allowing them to have a routine to follow.
This also lets your dog burn any excess energy they have, releases stress, and produces endorphins. Once they use up their energy, they’ll be too tired to feel anxious, especially if you have to leave them alone for a while. Exercising can be in the form of long walks, a jog, playing fetch, and others.
2. Create a Safe Space
Sometimes, no amount of calming or rewarding will do the trick to relieve an anxious dog. When this happens, they may need to unwind and turn off by letting them stay in their own space of safety. The quiet space that’s void of any stimulation can help them calm down.
3. Compression Wrap / Physical Contact
For dog anxiety caused by travel, separation, loud noises, or strangers, a compression wrap can provide comfort. It wraps around the torso much like a baby swaddling cloth. Or if you can, you can comfort your dog through physical contact.
4. Massage
One form of physical comfort is a massage. Humans get a massage to relieve stress and to feel relaxed and it’s the same with dogs. A gentle petting from someone they trust can help make them feel safe and secure, reducing their stress and anxiety.
5. Music Therapy
Studies have been made to show how music affects the moods of dogs. Playing soothing music like classical music can help them relax. Believe it or not, your dog might prefer one genre of music over another, so give a few options a try and see what elicits a reaction.
6. Medication
For more serious anxiety disorders, medication is critical to address the issue. Your vet will prescribe medication and possibly therapy sessions, depending on how serious your dog’s condition is. The proper medications will help reduce the anxiety in your dog and help them feel happier.
However, never give your dog any medication without your vet’s advice. Doing this on your own is dangerous and can seriously harm your dog.
7. Remove Triggers
If the anxiety isn’t related to any illness, one of the simplest ways to calm your dog is to remove or avoid any triggers. This is not a permanent solution but can help lessen anxiety attacks. For example, if your dog is triggered by loud noises, do your walks in parks away from the sounds of cars and other noises.
How To Prevent Anxiety In Your Dog
Socialization
Early socialization as puppies can help prevent social anxiety. Letting your puppy interact with as many dogs, animals, people, and have varying social experiences will teach your dog how to behave socially. Lack of socialization leads to being fearful or aggressive towards other dogs or people. So make sure you don’t shelter your dog from important social experiences.
Obedience Training
Preventing anxiety can also be done through obedience training. Training your dog early on helps build your bond and establish trust. A healthy relationship is a foundation that your dog will lean on when they experience something new, meet other dogs and people.
A trained dog is easier to teach during those new experiences. They will be more responsive and receptive to listen to you especially when their anxiety is triggered and help them calm down.
Observe Body Language
Anxiety manifests itself through behavior. Always be observant of your dog’s behaviors, especially those that are out of the ordinary. Being able to identify when your dog is scared or anxious is a training opportunity to calm them down. Doing this trains them to be calmer when their fear or anxiety is triggered.
Because anxiety is normal behavior, it might be easy to dismiss the signs of an anxious dog. Understanding what your dog needs or what they’re going through is critical to address any anxiety they may have. However, if you believe your dog does indeed suffer from a serious case of anxiety, seek immediate help. Managing it early will help your dog lead a happier and less anxious life.