Until a few years ago, no one really knew what actually dog anxiety was. With an increasing number of people wanting to keep a dog as a pet but not being able to meet the basic needs of the dog has led to increased dog stress. When we talk of the basic needs of dogs, it is not just food and shelter. Dogs need to go for walks, spend time with their owner, have a comfortable bed, and have lots of chew toys that may entertain them when you are not around.
The good news is that there are proven methods by which you can identify and help overcome dog anxiety so that your pet stays happy, calm, and healthy. In this blog, we shall have a look at the various aspects of dog anxiety and know how you can help your dog get rid of it and have a peaceful long life.
Can Dogs Have Anxiety?
Dogs get anxious, too. The most common triggers of dog anxiety include changed situations and traumatic experiences. Anxiety in dogs is caused by either genetic or environmental factors or learned behavior. Situational or specific phobias, such as the fear of thunderstorms and separation anxiety from the owner are instances of anxiety in canines. This anxiety can even continue for a long period of time, even many months. The more you know about the symptoms of dog stress, the better you will be able to help your pet cope with his anxieties.
Dog Anxiety Signs and Symptoms
Early detection of dog anxiety symptoms can help you prevent things from getting out of hand and set a course to help your furry friend. Some common signs of dog stress include:
- Excessive barking or whining
- Restlessness
- Trembling or shaking
- Hiding or desperate for constant reassurance from the owner
- Panting or drooling
- Destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture
- Self-harm, like excessive licking or biting
- Unusual aggression or irritability
- No desire to be fed
- Cannot relax or settle down
Dog Anxiety Treatment
Undoubtedly, treating dog anxiety depends much on the causes and proper stress relief. Here are some ways in which you can help ease anxiety in your furry friend:
- Behavioral Training
All pet parents consider training to be the most effective way to help their dogs with anxiety. It helps consider separation anxiety and other triggers of stress by desensitizing your pet for specific situations, thus providing in home dog care. It is important to note that this training must be provided on a continuous basis for promising results.
- Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Regular walks, playtime, and even interactive puzzle toys might help to provide in home dog care and reduce anxiety by engaging your dog’s mind and body. A tired dog is often calmer. Exercise helps the dog to utilize its excess energy, thus reducing the chances of stress.
- Secure Environment
A cozy space, like the one provided by a doughnut dog bed, leaves the dogs in a safe environment, mainly under stressful conditions. Beds specially designed for dogs provide a ‘safe spot’ for dogs dealing with anxiety.
- Reward Good Behaviour
Positive reinforcement by rewarding calm behaviours with treats motivates your dog towards positive responses. When you start giving treats for positive behaviour, it will help your furry friend to develop healthier and more relaxed responses.
It is advisable to follow all the above ways if you are in search of the answer to the question ‘How to treat dog anxiety’. Once you start following the above instructions, you will very soon start noticing dog stress relief.
How to Calm Dog Anxiety Naturally
Natural calming methods can be very effective while looking for solutions to ‘How to help with dog anxiety’. Take exercise, which releases endorphins to reduce stress. Giving your dog a comfortable and safe retreat with an anti-anxiety pet bed in his life can be a really big help. Some dogs may find aromatherapy with pet-safe essential oils like lavender to calm them. Lastly, activity toys and treats keep your dog engaged and preoccupied, thus soothing his brain as well as preventing him from featuring anxious behavior.
Basic Dog Care Products to Help In Controlling Dog Anxiety
There is a huge list of toys, beds, leashes, and harnesses that have the capability to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and provide comfort and stimulation. While thinking of ‘How to stop dog anxiety separation?’ all the following products have proved to be useful.
Dental Dog Care Toys
A much-overlooked aspect of a dog’s overall well-being is dental dog care. Gone is the time when there was a need to have specialized tools for dog care as dog chew toys can serve the purpose of cleaning your dog’s teeth while providing long hours of entertainment to your dog. Let us have a look at some of these toys and know how they help to maintain your furry friend’s dental care.
Dog Toys
- Dragon Egg Toy
It is a durable chew toy that ensures the dental health of dogs and reduces anxiety by letting them relax all their tense out with chewing
- Doughnut Dog Toy
This is a playful, dental dog care toy that can work for nervous dogs. The lovely shape and the feel are soothing but provide a distraction from your dog.
- Interactive Puzzle Toy
This dental dog care toy works by keeping your dog’s brain active. It may involve solving a simple puzzle that helps in alleviating anxiety, providing dental dog care, and preventing boredom.
- Interactive Pet Orange Toy
Very bright and attractive with fun stimulation for your pet that keeps its mind active and allows it no chance to feel worried or nervous. It is perfect to be given to a dog with anxiety separation.
- Pineapple Treat Toy
The treat-dispensing nature of this dental dog care toy not only keeps the attention of your dog engaged but at the same time gives them a reward, which can facilitate positive behavior and decrease stress.
- Indestructible Mango-Shaped Toy
This dog stress reliever toy is specifically designed for aggressive chewers. This toy is durable and will satisfy the stress-relieving needs of your dog, besides providing dental dog care.
- Tyre-Shaped Toy
It is designed for chewing and tugging while it aids in the release of excess energy; therefore, it will prevent your dog from becoming destructive as it keeps the symptoms of dog anxiety under control.
Beds and Houses
- Doughnut Dog Bed
This anti-anxiety pet bed provides a soothing yet snuggly environment. Your dog will feel safe, thus helping ease the symptoms of anxiety.
- Nest Pet Sofa Bed
This is a dog stress reliever comfortable, elevated bed that provides your pet security and comfort in reducing stress with a cozy haven for relaxation purposes.
- Chew-Proof Dog Bed
For dogs that chew due to anxiety, this product features a hardy construction that withstands heavy chewing, providing comfort and durability. Explore our indestructible dog beds designed to endure the toughest chewers while keeping your furry friend relaxed and cozy.
Dog Harnesses and Leashes
- Retractable Dog Leash
It is used for giving your dog freedom to discover things while at the same time having control. It is suitable for walks that help lower stress and anxiety
- Hands-Free Dog Leash
Aimed at active pet owners, this expandable dog leash allows for hands-free walking and jogging, perfect for working out with your dog. Anxious dogs benefit from this exercise, helping to reduce their stress levels while keeping you both fit and connected.
- No-Pull Dog Harness
A comfortable harness that stops the pulling action, is very suitable for anxious dogs who can then be handled without the discomfort of a standard leash.
Conclusion
Controlling dog anxiety seems to be a demanding task, but once you have the right approach with effective tools, you can contribute towards improving your dog’s well-being. Behavior training, natural calming, and providing your dog with the right dog anxiety toys, dog anxiety beds, leashes, and other necessary objects will lead you to a happier and more relaxed pet. The product line, including doughnut dog bed, interactive puzzle toys, and hands-free leashes at PetBuds, ensures comfort as well as peace of mind for your dog while making the experience of caring for him/her at home seamless.
