5 Tips for Anxious Dogs

Dogs of all ages can develop anxiety...

Some dog owners are quick to say that anxiety is a reflection of the 'dog owner' - which is FAR from the TRUTH!

Anxiety can happen for a variety of reasons, including - separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, past traumatic experiences, illness, injury, aging and even side effects from medication.

Read on to find out (we also share a really effective method some of our email subscribers use to help their dogs)...

(Not an exhaustive list!)

1. Establish a consistent routine & structure in their daily life: giving your dog a predictable environment and an established schedule for meals, potty breaks, walks, and playtime can create a sense of stability and security.

2. Exercise & physical activity: Physical activity can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs by releasing pent-up energy and providing an outlet for anxiety-inducing behaviors. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive or anxious behaviors. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day.

3. Training & behaviour modification: This can help dogs learn to feel more confident and secure in situations that trigger their anxiety. Training can also help redirect their focus and provide a sense of accomplishment.

4. Counter-conditioning and desensitization: This involves changing your dog's emotional response to a trigger that causes anxiety. For example, if your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, you can play a recording of thunder at a low volume while giving them treats. Gradually increase the volume as they remain relaxed until they no longer respond with fear to thunderstorms.

5. Nutrition: Some dogs face anxiety due to high cortisol levels within their bodies. Their biology betrays them. While most dog owners default to anxiety medication, we don't recommend it as a long-term solution.