A scared looking black and brown dog with anxiety

How to help your pup overcome its anxiety

Dogs are intelligent and social animals that often exhibit complex emotions. Unfortunately, anxiety is a common issue that many dogs experience. Anxiety in dogs can be triggered by a variety of factors and can manifest in different ways. It's essential for pet owners to understand the types of anxiety their dogs may experience, the causes behind it, and effective methods to help their furry friends overcome or ease their fear.

Types of Anxiety in Dogs:

Separation anxiety:

Separation anxiety is one of the most common forms of anxiety in dogs. This type of anxiety occurs when dogs become stressed or panicked when left alone or separated from their owners. Symptoms of separation anxiety may include excessive barking, whining, destructive behaviour, urination or defecation inside the home, pacing or restlessness.

Noise anxiety:

Noise anxiety is another common form of anxiety in dogs. This type of anxiety is triggered by loud or unexpected noises, such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or construction. Dogs with noise anxiety may exhibit symptoms such as trembling, hiding, excessive barking, or attempting to escape.

Social anxiety:

Social anxiety in dogs occurs when they are uncomfortable or fearful around other dogs or people. Symptoms of social anxiety may include aggressive behaviour, cowering or hiding, excessive barking or whining, and attempts to escape.

Anxious white dog looking up as if to listen to the calming voice of its owner

What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?

There are several reasons why dogs may experience anxiety. Some of the most common causes include:

Genetics: Some dog breeds are more prone to anxiety than others due to genetics.
Trauma: Dogs that have experienced trauma, such as abuse or neglect, may develop anxiety.
Lack of socialization: Dogs that have not been properly socialized with other dogs or people may develop anxiety when placed in new situations.
Aging: As dogs age, they may experience anxiety due to cognitive decline or physical discomfort.
Environmental factors: Changes in the dog's environment, such as a move to a new home or the addition of a new pet, can trigger anxiety.

Proven Methods to Help Your Dog Overcome or Ease Anxiety

Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce anxiety in dogs. A tired dog is less likely to exhibit anxious behavior.
Consistency and routine: Dogs thrive on consistency and routine. Creating a predictable daily routine for your dog can help reduce anxiety. Simple things like giving your dog its food and scheduling your dog walks for the same time every day can make a big difference.
Calming products: There are several natural supplements and calming products available that can help reduce anxiety in dogs. The aroma of Kunzea ambigua can have a calming affect on animals. Try spraying CritterKleen Natural Skin Repair on your dogs coat or in the room like an air freshener. Other natural scents that are known to be effective in reducing anxiety inn dogs are Lavender and Chamomile.
Desensitization and counter-conditioning: Desensitization involves gradually exposing your dog to the triggers that cause anxiety in a controlled and positive way, while counter-conditioning involves associating the trigger with positive experiences, such as treats or playtime.
Medication: In severe cases, medication may be necessary to help reduce anxiety in dogs. It's essential to work with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate medication and dosage.

Anxiety in dogs can be a challenging issue for both dogs and their owners. However, by understanding the types and causes of anxiety in dogs and implementing proven methods to help ease their fear, you can help your furry friend live a happy and stress-free live. If your dog is exhibiting signs of anxiety, we suggest to seek professional help from a veterinarian or a qualified dog behaviorist.