It is not every day that a person encounters dogs with anxiety. In fact, according to research, around 20% of the dogs in the United States suffer from some sort of anxiety disorder or another.
If you have a dog especially a young one at home, it’s crucial for you to know the symptoms and signs of anxiety displayed by dogs. Not only will this information help you understand your pet, but it also helps in developing a healthier bond between the both of you.
If your dog is displaying some or all of these symptoms, then there are high chances that he/she might be suffering from anxiety.
Some anxiety symptoms to look out for
1. Destructive chewing and scratching
This kind of behavior can be attributed to both separation anxiety as well as generalized anxiety. Dogs that suffer from anxiety often tend to turn their negative energy into physical activity. They try and ease themselves by chewing and scratching on things at home, and this might include furniture and even walls as well if they contain rough textures or other scents that your dog is particularly attracted to.
2. Abnormal barking
Dogs with anxiety often bark incessantly. They might do this to express their discomfort and distress, or it could also be a sign that they sense something unusual around them (strange visitors perhaps). This kind of abnormal barking is an overall behavioral change that will require your immediate attention.
3. Excessive licking and biting
Excessive licking and biting on themselves and objects in their reach is often a sign of separation anxiety. The dog might also continuously seek your attention by doing this.
4. Loss of appetite and restlessness
This is perhaps the most common sign of canine anxiety. If your dog displays such behavior, then he/she might be suffering from stress brought about by different factors within the environment.
5. Withdrawal, being distant and sulky
A dog that is anxious or experiencing something unusual might withdraw from his usual activities. They might be reluctant to go out for walks, play games or even eat their favorite food. If your pet shows such behavior, then it’s essential for you to find out the root of the problem before it gets worse.
How to deal with anxiety in dogs
In order to make your dog comfortable and lessen his/her anxiety, there are a number of things that you need to do:
1. Keep a journal
Keep a journal of your dog’s daily activities. Note down what triggers his anxiety and how it changes the way he acts. For example, if you notice that your dog is anxious after a thunderstorm, then make a note of this.
2. Exercise
Physical exercise plays a major role in keeping anxiety at bay. The more active your pet is, the better he feels. If you have a senior dog and he’s suffering joint pains, you can consult your veterinarian about the different exercises that are available for dogs with arthritis.
3. Training
Training your pet is one of the most effective ways to tackle anxiety in dogs. If you teach him/her unique commands, they will definitely feel more at ease and secure within their own territory. Furthermore, training sessions also act as a great stress reliever for your dog.
4. Supplements
There are a number of supplements that you can give your dog if he/she is displaying anxiety symptoms. CBD oil, for example, contains ingredients that help in reducing anxiety and other physiological reactions brought about by stress. If you’re new, http://www.sanjuanjournal.com/national-marketplace/5-best-cbd-oil-for-dogs provides a detailed explanation of how CBD oil affects dogs and their anxiety.
Conclusion
If your dog is suffering from anxiety, it’s best to take immediate action. The earlier you do this, the better it is for both you and your dog. Remember that while dogs are domesticated animals that have become very dependent on humans, they still need to express their natural reactions in different scenarios. While you might do everything that’s in your power to keep them comfortable, it’s also important for you to consult a veterinarian if the problem gets worse.