Like us, dogs can also suffer from anxiety.  But unlike us, they cannot reach out for help by themselves.  We are responsible for the physical and mental health of our dog.  There are, however, some simple tips for relieving anxiety in dogs.

Sudden behavioural changes can be signs of anxiety. For example, pacing, trembling, and decreased appetite. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can get on top of the symptoms quickly.  An all-natural supplement such as PetWell’s CALM or hemp seed oil may help with anxiety. Contact your veterinarian, for their suggestions on therapy or dog anxiety medication. 

Here are the top tips for relieving anxiety in your dog.

1. Remove the Triggers of Anxiety

Different types of triggers can lead to various kinds of anxiety. First, identify the triggers that make your dog anxious. You can identify them by changing the environment and routine of your dog. For example, if you think your dog is afraid of other dogs and people in the park. Then skip the walk to the park. Check if your dog is still anxious.

2. Regular Exercise

Regular exercise every day is the best thing to help relieve anxiety.  Walk, jog, hike, or play fetch, help keep your dog happy and healthy.

3. Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation is important. Use games and activities to keep your dog busy. Mental stimulation keeps your dog occupied without exhausting them with additional exercise.  A balance of both is important.  Play hide and seek.  Hide treats in difficult-to-find places and allow your dog to explore by using their senses. 

4. Puzzle Games

Give some puzzle toys to your dog. These toys have treats hidden under the boxes and are released once the puzzle is solved. Such puzzles will keep your dog busy and engaged for hours even when you are away. 

5. Let your Dog Sniff and Explore 

Dogs have a curious nature and they like to smell everything. When walking outside, let your dog sniff around.   They see the world with their nose.  This is mentally and physically stimulating for them.  It improves behaviour and decreases stress levels and heart rate.

6. Build a Safe Haven 

Provide your pooch with a solitary place in your house where they can relax. It should be like a haven where they can hide in times of panic.  Your dog can panic due to fireworks, strangers, and thunderstorms. You can make this place comforting and cozy by providing soft bedding, hiding treats, and their favourite toys there.  Spend time with them in their space, and give them lots of love and attention. That way they know it’s their space where only good things happen. 

7. Play Soothing Music

Mellow music helps your pets in relieving their anxiety.  You can leave your television on for your dog at a low volume when going outside. It will keep your dog engaged while you are away.

8. Use of Pheromones

Pheromones are naturally secreted chemicals. They are responsible for chemical communication between different animals of the same species. They possess mood-altering properties. Dog pheromone products act like natural pheromones. They can help relieve stress and anxiety by sending calming messages to your anxious dog. These products come in various forms like sprays, collars, and wipes.

9. Use of Natural Supplements  

The use of supplements can help relieve your dog’s anxiety. Always choose an all-natural supplement without synthetic ingredients. Using food-based supplements not only assists in managing their stress and anxiety, but it’s also completely safe, free of chemicals and nasties.

10. Stay Calm and Confident in Front of Your Dog

You are the focal point for your dog and they sense your mood.  They can pick up your stress and anxiety, so be confident and composed around them.   

Help Your Dog Adjust to Scary Situations

In some cases, your dog’s panic response to a trigger can be lessened if you make them believe that it is not scary. For example, if your dog is fearful of nail trimming, desensitisation during the procedure can help. Your dog will realise that it is not painful at all.  Feed them treats while you are trimming their nails. Keep their mind focused on the treat. Over time with this consistent approach, your dog will stay calm.

We hope these tips for relieving anxiety in dogs have given you some ideas on how to manage anxiety in your own pooch.

Disclaimer: The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.