How to Calm Down Your Anxious Dog?
Have you ever felt that your dog is stressed or agitated and that it might be having a panic attack? Many pet parents have seen this in anxious dogs, and it can be not easy to imagine your dog dealing with it independently. As their owners, we must try to assist our furry friends during these difficult times to ensure they are as comfortable and happy as possible. But how do you calm your anxious dog?
There are several approaches to dealing with dog anxiety; some dogs may not respond to one but will to another. There is no guarantee that these methods will work for your dog, they have proven effective in many cases. Below are some tips that may work for you and your dog.
Tips to Calm your Dog
Natural and holistic remedies are becoming increasingly popular, and the same is true for canines. Dr. Coates and holistic veterinarian Dr. Laurie Coger both recommend that you always go to your veterinarian first so that they can diagnose the root cause of the stress and rule out a more serious medical or behavioral issue.
Once your veterinarian has determined that there is no medical problem, these natural stress relievers may be just what your pet needs to return to his usual, happy self.
Regular Exercise
Your stress can sometimes become your pet’s stress. If your hectic work schedule prevents you from taking your dog for regular walks, he will become anxious.
Changes in routine, loneliness and a sense of being cooped up are all potential sources of stress that can be alleviated by simply taking your dog outside to stretch his legs and get some fresh air.
A tired dog is a happy dog, and getting them out of the house and letting them exercise is sometimes the best home remedy for dog anxiety. Even old dogs require regular exercise, as long as it is done in gentler ways on their aging joints.
Exercise Mental Stimulation
According to Dr. Coger, this stress-relief technique works on multiple levels. Teaching your dog a new trick, for example, diverts his attention away from whatever is causing the stress in the first place.
You’re also interacting with him one-on-one, which many stressed-out dogs crave from their owners after a long day at home.
A lot of dogs develop stress behaviors out of boredom, But that can be avoided by simply having some fun together.
Doctor Laurie Coger, Holistic Veterinarian
We frequently believe that fatigue is only caused by physical exertion, but mental exertion can have the same calming effects. Whatever new trick you teach your dog, anything that challenges him can help relieve stress.
Essential Oil Therapy
Essential oils can be toxic if consumed, especially by dogs, so never apply essential oils directly to your pet. However, if used properly in a household without cats, your dog can still benefit from aromatherapy.
Lavender oil is one of the most well-known natural pet stress relievers. According to a 2006 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), it can be effective for dogs who have a history of travel anxiety before a long car ride. It’s available without a prescription and is usually harmless when lightly applied to fabric.
Just put a drop or two on the corner of the blanket or towel your pet will be resting on, It’s hardly the only such oil, and in fact, oils are only a fraction of what’s available for those seeking an ancient stress therapy for their pet.
Dr. Jennifer Coates, Veterinarian at Fort Collins
If you have essential oils in your home, keep them where your pet cannot get to them. Pets are far more sensitive to essential oils than humans, and many of these oils are toxic and dangerous to them.
Music as Stress Release
According to a 2017 study conducted by the Scottish SPCA and the University of Glasgow, the right music can be effective in reducing signs of anxiety in dogs.
The researchers observed groups of dogs listening to various types of music. After a week, they switched to a different kind of music. They discovered that soft rock and reggae music were the most effective, but individual dogs had different tastes.
Playing your pet’s favorite music at a low volume can add a layer of calm to their environment. But first, observe your dog’s body language to ensure that they appreciate it.
Use Supplements
According to Dr. Coates, pet owners can treat doggy stress with melatonin, a hormone that naturally rises in the bloodstream when animals sleep. Melatonin may help pets stay calm in the short term, for example, before a planned car trip or a thunderstorm or sleep better.
According to Dr. Coates, veterinarians frequently recommend L-theanine and L-tryptophan supplements to help with mild to moderate anxiety.
Zylkene, a milk protein derivative, can help calm your pet naturally. It is frequently used successfully in senior dogs suffering from new, age-related anxiety. It is safe to use on a daily basis, when visiting family, or in other situations where your dog may require multiple days of calming support.
CBD oil and chews for dogs have recently become available. Because there are no restrictions on strength or potency, this can be a difficult supplement to use effectively.
CBD does not contain THC, the other active ingredient in marijuana, and thus does not cause your pet to become high. CBD may help calm your dog and reduce pain and inflammation when used properly. Consult your veterinarian about the proper dosing for each of these supplements for your pet.
Pamper and Groom Your Pet
Fifteen minutes of brushing every night is enough therapy for your dog. Dr. Coger says it will be great for your animal and give him more time with his owner. You will also have an opportunity to observe his skin for excessive licking, lesions, or abrasions, which could signify something more serious.
Anything that improves the body’s performance will enhance the performance of the brain. Some areas of a dog’s body, such as the feet, ears, and top of the head, are natural pressure points where as little as 15 minutes of massaging can significantly affect their stress level.