Over the years, humans experiencing anxiety have many support options – and the support grows year on year. However, it is not the same when it comes to dogs. Dogs also may feel stressed and anxious, but because they are not able to communicate as effectively with humans, one may mistake those signs as the manifestation of something else.
This blog explores the common signs of anxiety in dogs and how you can address them to enhance your best friend’s quality of life.
Signs Of Anxiety In Dogs
Here are the most common signs of anxiety in dogs that you may notice in your furry friend.
Excessive Barking
The form of expression that a dog uses and is noticeable most often is barking. If there has been excessive barking, it may be a sign of anxiety, indicating that they are angry or fearful. If combined with other telltale signs, this may be a time for intervention.
Whining And Crying
If your dog is hiding behind objects and crying repeatedly, making a whining sound, it indicates anxiety in dogs. If the whining is combined with trembling, it may indicate they are antsy, or they are hurt. It is common for dogs to have severe anxiety if they are a stray and adopted from a shelter.
Pacing And Changed Body Language
Trembling and panting, along with a drooped tail, are signs of anxiety in dogs. Pacing or acting extra friendly may also indicate a lack of focus and could indicate anxiety. Curious sniffing or walking around aimlessly back and forth is also worrisome.
Destructive Behavior
A common way for dogs to remove excess stress is through destructive behaviors such as pouncing, breaking things etc., which may be due to excessive energy or stress expressed destructively.
Drooling And Unpredictable Bowel Movements
Dogs that are trained but are urinating or pooping inside the house and are secreting foul-smelling odors are said to be anxious. Also, drooling due to lack of control on the secretion glands also signals a stressed dog.
Compulsive Behavior
Compulsive behavior like repeatedly licking oneself or chewing on one object may indicate anxiety in dogs. These may also be the symptoms of a skin infection or indigestion and may be in response to discomfort.
Increased Heart Rate And Dilated Pupils
Palpitations and an increase in the whites of the eyes due to dilation of the pupil could be a physical indicator of an anxious dog. Rounder or glassy-looking eyes could show fear. When the sympathetic nervous system kicks in, the flight or fight syndrome causes an increased heart rate.
How To Address Anxiety In Dogs
Here are some easy ways you can address anxiety in dogs effectively to improve their overall health.
Create A Routine
Creating certainty using a set routine helps reduce anxiety in dogs by enforcing predictability. A routine helps dogs be less worried about the upcoming events of the day as they know what is to come. Try to reduce this uncertainty to the best of your ability.
Physical And Mental Stimulation
Going on walks and playing with your furry friend helps increase physical activity, hence boosting serotonin and settling the nerves of your dog. Also, to keep their mind occupied and reduce anxiety, mental games or activities can enrich their daily experience further.
Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding your dog for desirable behavior can help create a positive attitude towards many situations and help alleviate anxiety felt by them after the performance of a particular action or behavior. Rewards may make them feel happier and more rested, at peace.
A Safe Stress-Free Environment
Avoiding stressful situations to create a safe environment is the best way to treat anxiety in dogs. Making small environmental changes and creating a safe space using toys and foods, indicating comfort is an effective solution.
Conclusion
Common ways to address anxiety in dogs may not work sometimes, and your furry friend may still experience fear; therefore, consulting a vet for medications can be the next obvious step.
To improve your pet’s life and to keep both of you stress-free in the long run, understanding, being aware, and effectively managing your dog’s anxiety can lead to a richer life experience and an overall happier and healthier dog.
