Dealing With Dog Anxiety

Anxiety in dogs is often caused by more than one factor. Pain, itching, illness and general stress can all lower a dog's threshold for anxiety, so any time you see your pup showing anxious behaviors, start by taking them to the vet to be sure there isn't an underlying medical issue. Once that's done, your veterinarian will be able to guide you through an approach to treat your dog's anxiety.

Some dogs may not need medication to help ease their canine anxiety, especially if the symptom is temporary. For those dogs, behavior modification and desensitization to triggers are often all that's needed. But if your dog is experiencing anxiety on a regular basis, or if the underlying cause can't be identified, then there are a variety of medications that can help ease their symptoms and make training easier.

Aside from the pharmacological options, there are several natural treatments for dog anxiety that can be very effective. These include calming herbal supplements, aromatherapy (use of essential oils), and exercise. All of these are best used under the supervision of your veterinarian, as some supplements can interact with other drugs and should not be taken by dogs that are pregnant or nursing.

Anxiety in dogs can also be alleviated by establishing a routine. Having your dog know what to expect can help them feel more at ease, so try to feed, walk and play with them on the same schedule every day. Also, leaving your dog alone for a set amount of time, and then returning home, can teach them that you will always come back.

Dogs can also be calmed by a loving touch. Petting them, talking to them in a soft voice and giving them lots of attention can be very soothing for an anxious pup. It is important that you don't scold or punish them for anxiety-related behaviors, as this will only make the situation worse. Instead, speak in a calm, gentle tone to reassure your pup and gently pat them, especially if they are pacing.

In some cases, a pet's anxiety can lead to aggression. This can be directed towards people or other animals, and it can happen suddenly. Aggression is usually a response to fear and should never be ignored, even if it's a single instance.

If a dog becomes aggressive, you should always consult your veterinarian. They will be able to help you find a solution, which could include medication or referral to a veterinary behaviorist.

Anxiety in dogs is a common condition that affects many different breeds and ages of dogs. Symptoms can be mild to severe, and can affect all aspects of your dog's life. However, with the right treatment plan, your dog can learn to overcome their fears and live a happier and healthier life. Dog Anxiety Meds CBD for Dog Anxiety. A new study found that a drug called CBD has been shown to significantly reduce animal stress. It can also help with behavioral issues such as separation anxiety, travel anxiety, and even noise sensitivity.