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| Photo: Pixabay |
Animals experience emotions similar to those of humans. However, unlike us, they are unable to verbalize them! Therefore, some of your dog’s annoying or strange behaviors may be a sign that he is experiencing anxiety. At Chico, we care about the well-being of animals and are sensitive to the difficulties experienced by their owners. In this blog post, you’ll learn more about the causes and manifestations of anxiety in canines, as well as possible solutions.
Why can dogs get anxious?
First, it’s important to distinguish between a fear reaction (e.g., your dog runs to hide if he hears a huge thunderclap) and anxiety, a state of persistent alertness. Thus, it is not necessarily obvious what is causing his behavior, as the trigger is indistinguishable.
That said, most experts agree that anxious dogs live in anticipation of an unpleasant event or situation, for example. Often because of their past – if they have experienced abandonment, abuse, neglect, bullying, etc. – some dogs will be afraid of a new situation. -Some dogs will be afraid of reliving a traumatic experience. Others are so attached to their owners that they are distraught when left alone, called separation anxiety.
In addition, certain lively environments (e.g., loud music, television on all the time, strong smells, the presence of several people or animals, lack of space, etc.) are conducive to making a dog anxious.
What are the behaviors associated with anxiety in dogs?
A dog can express its fear in many ways, including but not limited to the following.
- Whining;
- Barking;
- Growling;
- Refusing to walk on the sidewalk or get into a vehicle;
- Hiding;
- Losing control of bladder or bowels
- Trembling
- Scratching (e.g., furniture or door)
- Drooling;
- Yawning repeatedly
- Straightening the ears.
How to help your dog be less anxious?
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| Photo by Yenalem Twenty20 |
If your dog is embarrassing you in public, relieving himself in an inappropriate place, or barking incessantly while you’re away (your neighbors will probably tell you), don’t give up! Anxiety is very common, but fortunately, there are treatments available. In other words, there is no point in scolding or punishing your pet – and abandoning him is the worst solution!
An expert (e.g., veterinarian, animal behavior therapist, dog trainer) can advise and recommend products such as calming pheromones to reduce your pet’s anxiety symptoms. With patience and love, harmony and calm will return!