Sadly, it’s not just humans that can get anxiety—dogs can as well. However, there is some good news. Like humans, dogs can also get their anxiety treated (although you probably won’t need to take them to therapy sessions). In fact, depending on the dog, it’s possible to totally cure anxiety for dogs, but it isn’t true for all dogs. Some dogs will need to regularly take dog anxiety medication for the rest of their lives or need to be by your side as much as possible.
Below are some common ways to help treat your dog’s anxiety so they can live as much of a stress-free life as possible.
1. Get Them Moving With Some Exercise
Many dogs have separation anxiety, and while the obvious way to alleviate some of their anxiety is to never leave them alone, that often isn’t doable for many pet owners. However, using exercise as a way to bond with your dog (while also tiring them out) is an easy fix!
Anxiety can often cause an excess of energy, so taking your dog for a long walk or playing ball with them at a nearby park can be helpful. This also gives you the opportunity to give them lots of physical attention, which can help further alleviate their stress.
2. Massage Your Dog
Massages are a great way to help alleviate anxiety for many humans, so why not try it on your dog! Anxiety often causes tensing of the muscles and massage is a great way to relieve some of that tension. Starting at the neck, work your way down your dog’s body in long strokes. Over time, you may even begin to see where your dog holds its stress and focus on that area to help them relax.
3. Treat Your Dog’s Anxiety by Reducing Distracting Outside Elements
Like humans, dogs can also be over-stimulated by outside elements which can cause anxiety. By isolating your dog in a safe, quiet environment, you may be able to help calm their nerves. You could even try playing some quiet music and lowering the lights to help your pooch’s anxiety. A veterinary hospital near you can provide additional tips to help your pet dogs feel calm and safe.
4. Swaddle Your Dog
Sometimes swaddling your dog can help minimize their anxiety, especially if they are sensitive to loud noises such as thunder or fireworks. There are lots of calming coats and t-shirts out there that apply gentle, constant pressure to a dog’s torso, replicating the feeling of giving the dog a hug and calming them down. Think of it as a wearable weighted blanket for your dog!
5. Get Your Dog Some Dog Anxiety Medication
Sometimes the only thing to help your dog with its anxiety is through medication prescribed by a veterinarian.
There are several different anxiety medications for dogs, many of which will be prescribed alongside behaviour-modification training to assist in alleviating your dog’s anxiety. Some dogs can eventually be weaned off of anxiety medications, but some may require lifelong treatment.
Just like humans, anxiety affects each dog differently. Some dogs may just need some support and comfort while others may require a bit more attention. It’s important to remember that anxiety in dogs can be treated and through the right methods, can allow your dog to live out a happy, anxiety-free life!