When the dog becomes anxious

He separates from his owner. He lacks stimulation. He enters a new environment. How to calm him down?

di |
anxious dog

A dog can become anxious when he perceives a real or even potential threat, or when he finds himself in situations he cannot handle.

Cause

Some common causes include:

  1. Separation from the owner – many dogs suffer from separation anxiety when left alone.
  2. Loud or unexpected noises – thunderstorms, fireworks, sirens.
  3. New environments or changes – moving, arrival of new family members, changes in routine.
  4. Lack of stimulation or socialization – boredom or isolation can increase stress.
  5. Traumatic experience – Past abuse or accidents can leave memories that generate anxiety.

Symptoms

I behavioral signs of anxiety include:

  • Tremors or stiff wagging of the tail
  • Excessive licking or nibbling
  • Bark or howl for no apparent reason
  • Hide or try to escape
  • Loss of appetite or changes in sleep

Types of anxiety

Dog anxiety can be normal, and therefore physiological and temporary, linked to a specific stimulus:
  • The dog gets scared by a loud noise (e.g. thunder) but calms down after a short while
  • He's a little nervous in a new environment, then he relaxes
  • Shows caution or caution in unfamiliar situations
    In these cases, once the stimulus is over, things quickly return to normal.

But there is also pathological anxiety, which is no longer a simple reaction, but a persistent or excessive state.

Typical signs:

  • Anxiety even without obvious stimulus (it's always tense)
  • Difficulty calming down even after the stimulus is over

How to calm an anxious dog

There are a few clear remedies for calming an anxious dog. For example:
  • Quiet space: create a corner where the dog can take refuge without loud noises.
  • Predictable routine: fixed meal times, walks and play reduce stress and uncertainty.
  • Reduce stressful stimuli: for example, turning down the volume on the TV, closing windows in case of storms.
  • Calm presenceYour dog can sense your emotional state. Speak in a calm voice. Don't reinforce his fear by petting him too much if he's agitated, but calmly reassure him.
  • Targeted physical contact: Slow, firm strokes (on the chest or behind the ears) can help calm.
  • Reassuring objects: cloths with your scent, favorite toys, comfortable blankets.

Read also:

Want to see a selection of our news?

Don't Waste