If you’ve noticed that your dog is feeling down in the dumps or acting out, they could be going through anxiety.
Pet anxiety is fairly common among dogs. It’s not limited to any certain breed, but it can impact individual dogs differently.
Although it is a normal emotion when experienced in regular doses, anxiety in your dog can develop into something more serious when left unchecked. It can lead to more serious conditions like an anxiety disorder, and may even impact their physical health.
Causes of pet anxiety
The Merck Veterinary Manual states that there are three major causes of anxiety in dogs: age-related anxiety (affects older dogs), fear-related anxiety (includes strange noises and new people), and separation anxiety (manifests when dogs are unsure their owners will return).
It’s up to paw parents to determine whether their beloved pooch is in distress. There are common signs to watch out for.
Signs of pet anxiety
Excessive barking, howling, or whining
Urinating or defecating indoors
Showing the whites of the eyes
Lifting their paw
If you catch your dog exhibiting more than one of these behaviours, they might be feeling anxious.
How to Deal With Pet Anxiety
If your dog is currently experiencing anxiety, here are a few measures you can take to alleviate their stress:
Use a word or action to indicate you’ll be back
Try not to make it a big deal whenever you’re leaving the room. Give your dog a sign or word that will signal to them that you will return. Take note that this tip works better for dogs who go through a milder case of separation anxiety.
Socialise your dog
Dogs who aren’t well-acquainted with new people, environments, or even other dogs are more prone to being afraid of new situations. Regularly exposing them to new environments, such as visiting the dog park or taking a new trail during walks, can help ease any fears of the unknown.
Create a safe space for your dog
Not just a metaphorical safe place. This can be a full room or a large space in your house that’s filled with toys and treats that will keep your dog distracted while you’re away. When they’ve got plenty of things to keep them busy, they’re less likely to be destructive or fall back into bad behaviours.
According to a Brigham Young University study, running reduces the impact of anxiety on the hippocampus, or the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. Exercise also releases endorphins or happy hormones, kicking your dog’s anxiety to the curb.
If you find that your dog is experiencing bouts of anxiety, best consult your vet. Try out these tips to help them alleviate the symptoms. At the end of the day, your dog just wants (and needs) to know that you’re there for them, even if you can’t verbally tell them.