Is your dog showing unusual behaviour? If yes, then your dog might be feeling anxious. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Well, what is causing your dog to be anxious?
Here are some reasons for the anxiety in dogs.
What Causes Anxiety In Dogs?
Dogs like fellow humans also feel things and absorb energy from their surroundings. So if your dog has been neglected for a long time or has experienced abuse, he might become anxious and can develop long-term anxiety. Additionally, certain triggers like loud noises or changes in the environment and routine can cause anxiety in dogs. The latter issues are easier to address, as removing the source of anxiety can help. However, the first cause requires long-term care and extra precautions to make your dog feel at ease.
Another reason for your dog's anxiety can be their genetic predisposition. Some breeds, like German Shepherds, Border Collies, and Dobermans, are more prone to anxiety due to their genetics. So you need to be more conscious of these breeds. However, it's not 100% that only these dog breeds will develop anxiety. Any breed can develop anxiety due to their past experiences and current situation.
Dogs also get anxious when they are away from their owners which is known as separation anxiety. Like kids, dogs also act violently or show some kind of unusual behaviour when they don't see their parents around.
Exercise For Anxious Dogs
Cardiovascular Exercises
The best way to make your dog at peace is to go on a walk with him. You can go for a jog with your dog. This physical exercise will keep your dog happy and healthy as he will get energy out of his system and also be mentally stimulated. As his environment changes, he will also learn to cope with the social anxiety that dogs might get when outside of their comfort zone. This is especially beneficial for breeds with high energy. By running sound outside or briskly walking in a park, they use their stored energy, also happy hormones are released into the mind making them relaxed and calm. Swimming is also a great exercise for dogs to cope with their anxiety as their muscles relax in the water.
Mind-Stimulating Activities For Anxious Dogs
To relieve your furry friends' stress, keep them busy with mind-stimulating activities like puzzles, training sessions or treat dispensers. This way their mind will stay focused on the activity and they will not get much time to think or focus on this causing them anxiety. This will also make them feel accomplished and proud of themselves. These mind-stimulating activities for anxious dogs are best for those canines that have physical defects and cannot participate in difficult physical exercises. Due to these mind stimulations, their cognitive needs are met which releases their stress and anxiety.
Strength Building Exercises
Strength-building exercises involve obstacle courses. These obstacle courses not only provide physical exercises but also mental stimulation. Due to their two-in-one benefits, they are preferred more than the vets. As your dog with anxiety is using both its mind and body to finish a challenge, the release of happy hormones in dogs increases. They not only feel accomplished but also gain self-confidence. This self-confidence helps them overcome their fear of new places and people thus helping them in social and separation anxiety. It is recommended that you introduce these exercises one by one to get better results.
Relaxing Exercise For Dogs with Anxiety
Another very good exercise for anxious dogs is a slow walk or relaxation session. During this session, the heart rate of the dog is brought down so that he can calm down and become at peace. These sessions may include dog yoga or breathing techniques. Or just make your dog sit down and relax while the owner pats him. This makes the transition from high-intensity activity to a calm state. These activities teach dogs to self calm themselves so that anxious dogs can manage their anxiety throughout the day.
Additional Tips For Anxious Dog Training
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Calm Environment
If you have a dog with anxiety give them calm and quiet space. Make your house comfortable and safe for your anxious dog so that it can relax without any stress. Take for example our dog tipi Tonto. It gives some space, where your dog can hide.
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Professional help
If your dog's anxiety is severe or interfering with their quality of life, consider consulting with a veterinarian or certified dog trainer for treatment.
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Medication
In some cases, medication may be required to treat or manage anxious dogs. However, it is important to consult with a vet to know about the proper medication and treatment.
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Socialization
Gradually expose your dog to different people, dogs, and environments to help them become more comfortable in social situations.
Final thoughts
In the end, love can be an answer to all your problems. Give as much love and support to your anxious dog as possible to make it overcome its fears and traumas. With emotional support and the above-mentioned exercises for anxious dogs, your home will become a haven for your furry friend. So be mindful of your dog's behaviour and always keep an eye out for any signs of anxiety so that you can help your dog at the right time!