We love our fur babies, and they love us back. As a pet owner, you want to do everything you can for your dog because they are such an important member of your family. Whenever they have worries, fears, or concerns, you feel them too. If you’re dealing with an anxious dog, you want to help ease their stress. Here are four ways to help your dog deal with anxiety.
Physical Touch
A gentle touch, a pat on the head, or a simple pet can go a long way to soothe an anxious dog. When anxiety kicks in, they need to feel grounded and secure. Your soothing touch and calming breaths can help relax them.
When your pup starts to have an anxious moment, lower your voice and speak to them with love and concern. Pet their body and let them feel your heartbeat and breathing. If they feel that you’re calm, they will find it easier to calm down themselves.
Plenty of Exercises
Give your dog a chance to work out that anxious behavior. Exercise can be beneficial for people who experience anxiety, so why wouldn’t it work for dogs, too? You can’t be with your dog at all times, which can lead some pups to develop separation anxiety. Using exercise as bonding time will help relax and tire them out before you have to depart.
Try to set aside a few calm moments with them before you leave. Carve out plenty of time in your schedule to exercise with them and still make it to your appointments or engagements on time. Anxiety causes excess energy, and throwing the ball around with your pup helps them burn off some of their stress.
Some One-on-One Time
Most of the time, all your pup needs to feel calm is you. A dog is man’s best friend and vice versa. They only want to spend time with you, and making them a priority really eases their nerves. Spending quality time with your dog should go beyond simple walks.
Consider going on a trip with them, but make sure it’s a soothing and relaxing vacation. A road trip to a campsite often makes the perfect getaway. Make sure you pack plenty of supplies for you and your dog. Everything you bring should accommodate you both, especially the shelter. For instance, if you’re traveling with a rooftop tent, make sure it has enough room for you and your dog and that your pup feels comfortable getting into it.
A Little Discipline
You don’t want to punish your dog for their emotions, but sometimes, a little discipline may be necessary. Sending your dog into a time-out isn’t intended to fault them or guilt them for their anxiety; it’s meant as a means to help them calm down. Isolating them in a quiet and safe space eases their nerves.
Your dog can take that time to be still and relax. Consider playing some calming music near the area where they are taking their time-out. This soothing stimulus will trigger their senses and focus their attention on something other than their anxiety.
Helping your dog deal with anxiety might take some time, but eventually, you’ll get them in a good place.
