Does Your Dog Have Anxiety?
Like humans, dogs can experience anxiety, stress, and even depression. Maintaining your pet's mental health is just as important as sustaining their physical health. There are multiple symptoms of poor mental health in dogs, and it's vital to recognize the signs as soon as possible. Here are a few symptoms and how to help.
Types of Anxiety
- Separation Anxiety
- Rescue/Shelter Anxiety
- Fear of Loud/Sudden Noises
Symptoms of Anxiety
- Aggression
- Excessive drooling or panting
- Pacing
- Restlessness
- Excessive barking
- Accidents or vomiting inside the house
- Hiding under a bed or in small spaces
- Shaking and whimpering
How to Help Your Dog Stay Calm
One way to help ease your dog's anxiety is to create a routine. Create a daily schedule for playtime, walking, eating, and sleeping. Introducing a proper routine for your dog can lessen their anxieties and help them know their needs will be met. For example, take your pet out around the same time every day. If you have Dog Guard®, this is simple as you can just open your door in the morning and let your dog out with no worries.
Another way to ease your dog's anxiety is to avoid possible triggers. This is mainly for dogs who suffer from rescue/shelter anxiety or other trauma. Loud noises, sudden movements, meeting new people, and even other dogs can trigger this kind of anxiety. Ensure your dog has multiple sources of comfort, such as heated toys and plush bedding. Giving your dog many hugs and cuddles can help them as well. Any time you notice symptoms rising, pet them and speak gently to let them to let know they are safe.
Anxiety can also decrease when your dog has essential exercise and the ability to explore on a regular basis. Investigating their environment and familiarizing themselves with their surroundings helps your dog to feel safer, more comfortable, and more confident. You can easily let your dog roam around the yard and explore freely by installing a Dog Guard® underground fencing system. Your furry friend will soon gain more confidence in themselves, and you will be calm and confident, too, knowing that your dog is safe.
Good News
The best news is that anxiety is treatable and will improve the more you work on it. Our canine companions deserve just as much anxiety treatment as we do, and it's important to help them live their best lives by ensuring they feel safe and comfortable. Remembering and repeating these tips can help you guarantee that your dog remains anxiety-free!
In the meantime, don't forget to reach out to us any time for your fencing needs as our goal is to make you and your pet as stress-free as possible.
