Av Marten P Anxiety isn’t just problematic for many people; it can also affect your dog’s life. A dog’s behavior often reflects their emotional state and unchecked anxiety can lead to challenges for both the dog and their owner, so here are a few tips to calm your fluffy friend.
Identify Triggers
A sign of an anxious dog can be excessive barking or whining, but it can also be destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture or scratching on doors. With that said, there is no right answer when it comes to anxiety, and you have to be aware of obvious changes in behavior and apply the appropriate measures.
Provide Comfort
Needless to say, a dog needs to feel safe, and a good way to provide this is to offer a crate or a quiet room. The designated quiet area needs to be cozy, so add a soft blanket, their favorite toys, and maybe a piece of your clothing that smells like you, thereby reducing their stress and anxiety.
Calming Tools
Calming tools for dogs can be highly beneficial, especially for pets dealing with anxiety, fear, or stress. Try anxiety wraps, thundershirts, or other calming treats. Remember, anxiety prevents dogs from enjoying everyday activities, such as walks, play, or social interactions.
Training
Gradually expose your dog to triggers in a controlled way to build its tolerance and teach it to cope with stress. An anxious or stressed dog may struggle to focus during training sessions. Calming tools help them relax, making training more productive. Training exercises challenge your dog intellectually, preventing boredom and its associated problems, like destructive behavior.
Consult a Veterinarian
If your dog’s anxiety is severe or persistent, consult a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviorist. They can provide tailored advice or recommend medications if needed. By being attentive and compassionate, you can help your dog feel secure and loved, even during stressful times.