Sometimes, despite our best efforts to provide our dogs with a safe, happy, and fulfilling life, our furry companions can experience anxiety, which can impact their well-being and our own peace of mind. Whether it’s a rumble of thunder, the fear of separation, or the unease of unfamiliar environments, dog anxiety is significantly impacting our furry friends.
At Green Pantry, we genuinely care about your dog’s physical and mental health. That’s why we’ve created completely natural dog food that targets specific health problems, tailored to your pooch’s needs. In this blog, we’ll focus on the effects of dog anxiety and provide some top tips on how to manage it.
Ready to dig up some relaxing solutions? Let’s get into it…
What is anxiety in dogs?
First things first, let’s try to actually understand anxiety in dogs. A study conducted in 2020 revealed that 70% of dogs show symptoms of anxiety. That potentially equates to around 8.8 million canines, a staggering number which might be higher than you thought. Anxiety in dogs, much like in humans, is a complex emotional response to perceived or real threats. It’s more than just a moment of fleeting fear – it’s a persistent state of unease that can significantly impact your dog’s well-being.
The aim of this blog is to bring relaxation and calm back to your pooch’s life. However, this can only be achieved with a deeper understanding of canine anxiety. The most common types of dog anxiety include:
- Separation anxiety
- Noise anxiety
- Generalised anxiety
- Fear-related anxiety
Before we go into detail about the most common causes and symptoms of anxiety in dogs, remember that if your dog’s anxiety is severe or persistent, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian or a certified dog behaviourist who specialises in this health condition.
Common causes of dog anxiety
Anxiety in dogs can stem from a variety of different problems, so it’s important as an owner to recognise these causes to effectively help your dog. Understanding the specific types of anxiety is key to helping you ease your pup’s stress, and we’ll look at them in a bit more detail.
1. Separation anxiety
Even before we were able to spend more time at home with our beloved pets, separation anxiety has always been a common occurrence. In fact, very few dogs like being left alone because they are sociable animals by nature. Separation anxiety, therefore, is a behavioural disorder where dogs experience distress and anxiety when separated from their owners. It will often manifest into destructive behaviours such as excessive barking or chewing at furniture. It’s more than just a little whining, it’s a genuine state of panic.
Separation anxiety is most common in puppies and dogs under the age of 5, however, it can still affect dogs of all ages. The core issue is the fact that your dog struggles to cope with being alone. Their destructive actions are driven by fear or distress, not because they are disobedient.
Solutions and tips:
- Practice short departures – put on your shoes, grab your keys, but don’t actually leave the house
- Take your dog for a long walk before you leave the house for a long period of time – this will tire them out and mean they will settle easily when left alone
- Try leaving the radio or even the television on when you go out
- Avoid making your departure cues predictable
- Create a safe and comfortable space where they can feel at ease. Include their favorite bed and toys to make it inviting, but also ensure the environment limits opportunities for destructive behaviors like chewing
2. Fear of loud noises
Another common cause of anxiety in dogs is the fear of loud noises. Often referred to as a noise phobia, it is a genuinely common and distressing fear. Sudden and loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks can trigger an immediate fear response and can lead to learned associations whereby your dog will learn to associate certain sounds with negative experiences. The fear response to these loud and uncertain sounds can cause physical symptoms such as trembling, shaking, and hiding.
Some of the most common noise triggers include fireworks, thunderstorms, gunshots, loud vehicles, and construction noises. When your dog experiences one of these frightening noises, they may hide or become physically distressed. If they’re repeatedly exposed to these noises, their anxiety can worsen over time, and they may begin to anticipate these noises before they even occur.
Solutions and tips:
- Create a comfortable and quiet space where your pooch can retreat to during loud noises
- Minimise outdoor noises by closing curtains and windows, and use white noise machines or fans to mask disturbing sounds
- Pair these noises with positive experiences, such as dog treats for gradual exposure
- Work with a canine behaviourist and develop a comprehensive training plan
3. Generalised anxiety
Sometimes, it’s not always possible to determine the cause of canine anxiety. The primary event or cause that triggered the anxiety could have gone unnoticed in the past or happened before your pet joined the family, for example, if they are a rescue dog.
Breeds that are more prone to general anxiety include:
- German and Australian Shepherds
- Labrador Retrievers
- Vizslas
- Border Collies
- Cocker Spaniels
- Greyhounds
- Bichon Frise
Generalised anxiety is actually a pretty common condition among dogs, but it’s often overlooked. The symptoms can be subtle and sometimes not that unusual. Being in a constant state of panic and anxiety can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life, and can lead to things such as a loss of appetite, excessive trembling or shaking, and destructive behaviour.
Solutions and tips:
- Rule out medical causes and take your pooch for a thorough veterinary exam
- Establish a consistent routine by maintaining regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedules
- Be patient and consistent – managing anxiety requires plenty of patience and quite a bit of effort, so don’t expect to see changes in your dog’s behaviour overnight
4. Illness-induced anxiety
A lot of anxiety and fear in dogs can be caused by illness or disease, and this type of anxiety usually comes on suddenly in a dog that is not normally anxious. Dogs with illness-induced anxiety may be sensitive to touch or noises, have night terrors, and may even seem scared of everyday objects. This fear can even manifest itself as aggression towards family members and other pets in the home.
Senior dogs, in particular, are susceptible to behaviour problems caused by health issues, which, when left untreated, can trigger significant anxiety issues. Things like canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, arthritis, digestive issues, and other age-related ailments can all create anxiety in a formerly chilled-out pooch.
Solutions and tips:
- Make sure that you’re taking your dog for a thorough veterinary examination
- Ensure that your dog is receiving the correct medication and is taking them on schedule
- Provide them with a soft, comfortable bed in a quiet, secluded space
- Ensure your environment is at a comfortable temperature, as some illnesses can affect a dog’s ability to regulate their body temperature
Common symptoms of dog anxiety
As we’ve briefly mentioned above, anxiety, no matter what type, can cause your dog to experience a number of symptoms. Most of the time, their body is thrown into the ‘fight or flight’ response, and this can trigger a range of physical sensations and behaviours. Things to look out for in an anxious dog include:
- A loss of appetite, or in some cases, no appetite
- Excessive licking, chewing, or other repetitive behaviours
- Panting or drooling
- Increased vocalisations, such as barking and whining
- Trembling and shaking, even when it’s not cold
- A disrupted digestive system can cause constipation or diarrhoea
By being observant of these symptoms, you can take proactive steps to help your dog manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life.
How to calm a dog down from anxiety
Now that you know about the causes of anxiety in dogs, it’s time to implement some strategies. When anxiety strikes, it can be quite distressing for both you and your furry friend. At Green Pantry, we believe in creating a holistic approach to canine wellness, and we’ve got some healthy and practical ways to help ease dog anxiety. Let’s have a look at them in a bit more detail…
Natural calming supplements
A valuable tool, natural dog supplements might be just the solution when it comes to your dog’s anxiety. At Green Pantry, we’ve created a natural calming supplement that specifically targets anxiety in dogs. It’s made from 100% natural ingredients that can help your pup stay relaxed and chilled out in a moment of madness. Supplements can help with dog anxiety as they can boost serotonin, lower cortisol, and promote relaxation.
The key ingredients include hemp, which contains CBD and has been shown to help with anxiety and can even help with low levels of pain, which is great for dogs that suffer from stiff joints. Valerian also has calming and soothing properties, while Ashwagandha exerts a positive influence on the central nervous system. Passionflower and Lemon Balm are also known for their calming properties and are great for separation anxiety. A little bit goes a long way – all you need to do is sprinkle onto your dog’s favourite meal!
* Please remember to consult with your veterinarian before you give your dog any natural supplements, especially if they are taking other medications.
Exercise
Regular exercise isn’t just about burning off excess energy; it’s also a vital tool for managing anxiety. Physical activity releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. In many instances, a tired dog is often a calmer dog. Aim to take your beloved pet on daily walks, incorporating playtime along the way and interactive games like frisbee or fetch that stimulate both their body and mind.
You don’t have to worry about strenuous workouts – gentle and low-impact activities such as leisurely walks or sniffing sessions can be particularly beneficial. Swimming is also particularly beneficial for dogs with anxiety, as the rhythmic motion and the sensation of water can have a soothing effect. It’s also a great, gentle exercise for dogs wanting to lose weight or who suffer from mobility issues.
Find out more about the benefits of swimming and hydrotherapy by reading our expert interview.
Socialisation
Socialisation can play a vital role in calming your dog’s anxiety by building confidence and helping them navigate the world with less fear. Encouraging your dog to socialise will expose them to a wide variety of sights, sounds, smells, people, and other animals in a controlled and positive manner. Exposing them gradually will help them become accustomed to these ‘scary’ stimuli, reducing the fear of the unknown, which often triggers anxiety.
Positive socialisation experiences with other dogs will also help to build your dog’s confidence. When a dog learns that they can handle different situations, they will become less fearful and anxious and may feel more confident when approaching other dogs that they come across on walks.
Steven Howard of DBDT Dog Training Norfolk tells us about the importance of socialisation in anxious dogs. Steven says : “Socialising a nervous or anxious dog takes time and most importantly, patience. Always work at the dog’s speed, in a calm and controlled manner and use positive reinforcement with treats and lots of praise.
Use distance to avoid negative experiences and let any interaction take place when your dog is ready and feels safe.
With a calm and slow approach, whilst rewarding your dog positively, you can change the behaviour from fear to positive reinforcement’’
Comfortable environment
And finally, all anxious dogs need a safe space that they can retreat to when they are feeling particularly stressed. This will help your dog’s body and mind relax, which in turn can reduce the physical impacts of anxiety. A designated safe space could be a soft bed, cushion, blanket, or crate, and should provide a sense of security and control. Try to make it as comfy and relaxing as possible – think soft bedding, calming sounds, and familiar scents.
Your dog’s safe space doesn’t just have to be a physical environment – cuddling and fussing them when they seem anxious can be just as beneficial as a soft blanket. This will build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your dog, and they will know that they can rely on you in times of need.
Invest in your dog’s health with Green Pantry
Hopefully, this blog has taught you all about dog anxiety. Navigating the complexities of dog anxiety can be tough, but remember, you’re not alone. By understanding the triggers, recognising the signs, and implementing the strategies mentioned in this guide, you can ignite a tail-wagging and fulfilling life for your dog!
At Green Pantry, we genuinely care about our customers – that’s why we’ve got a 4.9/5 Trustpilot rating. If you have any queries or questions regarding your furry friend, please get in touch, or, speak to us on the phone by calling 01553 811 320.
Here’s to many more tail wags, peaceful naps, and joyful moments together.
Dog anxiety FAQs:
What can I give my dog for anxiety?
Addressing dog anxiety requires a multi-faceted approach, and it is always best to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any medications or supplements. We’d recommend one of our natural dog supplements, specifically our calming herbal powder, which requires one small sprinkle on top of your dog’s main meal. It includes calming ingredients such as Hemp, Valerian, Passionflower and Lemon Balm.
How to ease dog anxiety on walks?
Walking your anxious dog requires a lot of patience and understanding. To ease their anxiety, start with shorter, more frequent walks, and create positive associations with treats and praise. Pay close attention to what sets your dog off – it might be other dogs, people, loud noises, or specific locations. Helping your dog to feel more comfortable on walks and outdoors is one of the first steps to easing their anxiety.
How to leave a dog home alone with separation anxiety?
If your dog suffers from separation anxiety when you leave, try to tire them out with exercise throughout the day. A tired dog is less likely to become anxious, and if they are tired, they will hopefully sleep peacefully whilst you’re gone. Try to create a safe space for them, and practise leaving calmly, making a fuss of them when you return.
