Our dog friends are responsible for numerous happiness and positive emotions they bring to our lives. They are house animals, yet are family to us and have close relations with us. Dogs are, in fact, the pets of nearly 78 million people in the US, as per the figures of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
The one thing that hampers this joy and love is the dog’s anxiety. Just like us, our furry friends also experience anxiety, seriously impact their behavior and relationship with us.
Dog anxiety is a common behavioral phenomenon. It’s inevitable to understand the signs of dog anxiety early to give him due care. This blog will give you a detailed understanding of the complications of dog anxiety, and strategies and tips for calming a nervous dog. This will help you and your furry friend live a happier and a enjoyable life.
Prevalence of Dog Anxiety
Like humans, the prevalence of dog anxiety is also shown in recent studies. A study was conducted by Milla Salonen and her fellows on more than 13000 dogs, and over 260 breeds. The findings of this study were eye-opening and alarming. Below are these findings:
Ø Signs of dog anxiety were found in over 70% of dogs
Ø 29% showed a fear of strangers
Ø 32% show fear of noises like vehicle horns, fireworks, or thunderstorms
Ø 17% of dogs have shown a fear of other dogs
Dogs are our friends, safeguarding us and our valuables and playing a vital role in human health.
Signs of Dog Anxiety
Unlike human anxiety, the anxiety in dogs is much different. Our furry friends also undergo anxiety, but they can’t tell in words. This becomes challenging to know about our dog’s anxiety. The pet owners must know the signs of dog anxiety to address them promptly. Below are the common signs:
- Destructive Behavior: Chewing everything or digging forcefully.
- Pacing or Restlessness: Remains overactive and doesn’t settle down.
- Excessive Barking: Barking all the time is a stress signal.
- Panting or Drooling: It is heavy breathing and unusual salivation.
- Trembling: Undue shivering or shaking.
- Loss of Appetite: Doesn’t eat or drink as usual.
- Hiding or Escaping: Searching for a secluded place.
- Scratching Walls or Doors: Excessive scratching of the walls and doors.
- Wagging Tail: A lowered tail as tail and its movement is a sign of agility.
- Wet Nose: Stress and anxiety increase the nasal discharge.
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These are signs and symptoms that indicate your dog is anxious. Early diagnosis and treatment save you and your dog from many future complications.
Causes of Dog Anxiety
One can understand how irritating it is to have your furry friend in anxiety. Treating a dog’s anxiety is the first step towards making your dog feel happy. Several factors result in anxiety.
- Fear of Separation: When your dog is away from you, and feels he is left alone.
- Less Socializing: Lack of exposure to people, new places, or other animals.
- Fear of Strangers: New thing, new persons, or a new animal.
- Noise Phobia: Loud noises like thunderstorms and fireworks cause anxiety.
- Changes in Surroundings: Moving to a new place or changing home furniture and other settings.
- Traumatic Experience: Abused, neglected, or some past bitter trauma.
- Dog Health Problem: Any disease, pain, or discomfort.
Tips for Treating Dog Anxiety
Once it has been identified that your dog is anxious, the main problem is diagnosed. Now, the next step is to treat the dog’s anxiety and normalize your dog. Below are the essential tips to treat dog anxiety:
A Dog-Friendly Environment:
Have your dog be in a good atmosphere and give him a cozy place to sleep with toys, keep him in a quiet room, and let him have his favorite food. Be kind to your dog and accompany him inside the room or walk with him.
Physical Activity:
Playing, walking, or chilling with your dog is a way to fight anxiety. Involve your dog in playing with a ball or an exercise program, and some other physical tasks. That way, your dog’s mind and body remain busy.
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No punishment:
Do not punish your dog when he shows weird behavior that stems from anxiety. Deal with him in a manner that a friend would show, and make him feel a loving and kind response from you.
Desensitization Practices:
When you have identified the specific triggers that irritate your dog, like fireworks or thunderstorms, practice these with your dog. Like, play the sounds of fireworks or thunderstorms in slow volume, to get him used to of anxiety-triggering stimuli.
Use A Thunder shirt:
Thunder shirt is a pet garment and is a very useful strategy for calming a nervous dog. This gives your dog a feeling of hugging and comfort. It is a drug-free option to treat dog anxiety. Moreover, it is also vet-recommended and used by many dog trainers.
Consult a Professional:
After applying the above-mentioned tips, your dog’s behavior is not improving. This is the time to consult a veterinarian or a dog trainer before it’s too late. They are expert in identifying underlying medical issues and will suggest a customized treatment plan.
Final Thoughts:
Like humans, anxiety in dogs is also very common. But don’t let it take control of your beloved companion. It’s all your care, understanding the signs of dog anxiety, patience, and the right strategy that leads to calming a nervous dog.
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The dog’s anxiety is easily addressed by applying a friendly attitude, a comfortable environment, ensuring enriching activities, and remaining calm and cool with your furry friend. First, you need to improve the emotional well-being of your dog and strengthen your bond. It will work in a couple of days, and it can also take a little longer.
The most important thing is that you don’t hesitate to get a consultation from a veterinarian when your home tips are not working. The veterinarian will guide you and give you the right treatment plan, keeping in view your dog’s anxiety level. Timely consultation will ensure a stress-free life for you and your dog.
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