Anxiety

Did you know dogs can suffer from Anxiety? Do you know what signs to look for?

Anxiety can affect dogs in many ways.

Most dogs’ anxiety is situational, meaning it’s not everything in life but certain things. Such as their crate, being alone, new friends, too much stimulation, loud noises, just to name a few. However, dogs can also suffer from daily anxiety from just life itself, meaning that they are just anxious in general about everything in life or some situational things just heighten their anxiety.

Separation anxiety is the most common specific anxiety in companion/family dogs.

Previous trauma can trigger a dog to have anxiety. Such as neglect, abuse, limited social contact, poor health, confinement. Be mindful if any of these are a possibility and do your best to know your dog’s history. Determining if your dog has previous trauma will be super helpful in helping your dog’s anxiety.

Not sure if your dog suffers from anxiety?

Watch for cues, such as heavy panting, excessive barking, excessive shedding, excessive licking, drooling, pacing, whining, restlessness, excessive bad behavior. These are some of the most common signs your dog will express when anxious, it can be multiple or just one.

It’s important to help your dog through the situations that is/are making them anxious verses just not having them experience them. Ex: if their crate makes them anxious, do small increments, add the heartbeat dog, sound machine, music, tv or a natural remedy. Trial and error through everything that makes them anxious will help your dog work through their anxiety and hopefully lessen their symptoms. Your presence and calm demeanor will help them feel safer and less anxious. NEVER scold them for their anxious behaviors.

Natural ways to help reduce your dog’s anxiety

Exercise

Music/sound machine

Aromatherapy

Calming/Thunder shirt

Massage

Mental stimulation/ distraction

Lick mats

Sensory toys

Supplements

We personally suggest these two supplements, we have used these and found they worked great for our dogs.

Zesty Paws calming chews

CBD for pets

Of course, there are a ton of products out there, but finding one that works for your pet without spending hundreds of dollars and time researching reviews can be tricky. Take it from us, we’ve tried several different brands and did not find them helpful.

Other great natural supplements such as Valerian root, Theanine, Melatonin and Tryptophan are great options as well. Please confirm dosage and side effects before giving to your dog.

Diffusing or a small drop behind the ear of essential oils can be another great all-natural remedy, keep in mind some dogs are more sensitive to essential oils and don’t tolerate them well. These are the top calming oils: lavender, roman chamomile, peppermint, clary, vetiver, frankincense, lemon balm. Our favorite brands are Plant therapy and Revive.

Over the counter medications are always an option. Such as Benadryl and Dramamine. We personally try to stay away from them and would only use them as a last resort. We feel with all the all-natural supplements available they are a much safer option, have less or no side effects which is better for our four-legged friends.

Here’s a great article on medication, side effects, a holistic approach and more…

Your dog WILL need help from you to manage their anxiety whether that be with supplements or the actions we suggested above. DO NOT ignore your dog’s anxiety, not only can it become worse, its cruel and creates great distress for your dog. Your dog cannot live out their best life possible when suffering with anxiety.