Just like us, dogs can suffer from anxiety and mental health issues. Our dogs are stressed by many things - changes in the environment, being left alone for the first time, past traumas, or even genetic predispositions. Just because your dog has anxiety doesn't mean you're a bad owner or that you're not providing a suitable home. Thankfully, with a little understanding of canine mental health and some proactive steps, you can help your dog feel safe and secure. Let's talk about how anxiety affects dogs, how to recognize the signs, and what you can do to support your dog's mental health.
Canine Behavior is Based on Mental Health
A dog's mental health is the foundation of their behavior. When a dog's mental health is good, they are relaxed, confident, and playful. Anxiety can affect a dog's mental health and throw their behavior off-kilter. Common causes of anxiety in dogs include loud fireworks, moving to a new home, not enough physical and mental stimulation, or simply not being challenged enough.
These stressors can be overwhelming to a dog and cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms that interfere with their daily life. Anxiety is not just a mood change; it can affect every aspect of a dog's life. Understanding why it happens and being consistent and gentle in your approach can make all the difference.
Signs That Behavior Problems May be Anxiety-Related
Many behavior problems in dogs are caused by anxiety. Unfortunately, they can be masked as bad behavior and ignored. Some common signs that your dog's behavior problems may be anxiety-related include:
- Excessive barking or whining: Barking and whining are common symptoms of separation anxiety or anxiety in general.
- Destructive behavior: Chewing, digging, and shredding furniture is often a sign of boredom, but it can also be a result of frustration from stress and anxiety.
- Fear-based aggression: Growling and snapping at people, noise phobias, and avoidance of new places or situations.
- Restlessness: Pacing and not being able to relax are signs that your dog is uncomfortable.
- House soiling: Even well-housed dogs can have accidents when they're anxious.
Seeing the behavior problems for what they are - signs that your dog needs help - can make a huge difference in how you approach the issue.
Monitoring Your Dog's Mental Health
Monitoring your dog's mental health is easy and involves watching their behavior. Are they more nervous and clingy? Have they lost interest in their toys and favorite activities? Changes in appetite, energy level, and body language are all signs that your dog is anxious. Is your dog not picking up their head when you enter the room, are their tail and ears tucked away, do they avoid eye contact?
Have you recently changed your dog's environment or routine? Bringing home a new puppy or cat? Having the kitchen remodeled with loud machines? These events can leave a lasting impression on dogs and contribute to anxiety. Checking in on your dog's mental health is something to do at least monthly and is especially important in the first few months of the year when summer chaos begins.
Checking in with Your Dog Monthly
Checking in on your dog’s mental health monthly is a simple but powerful habit that can make a big difference in their overall well-being. Take some time to observe their behavior and mood—are they acting more anxious, withdrawn, or restless than usual? Small changes, like a loss of interest in toys or altered sleep patterns, can be early signs of stress or anxiety. By doing these regular check-ins, you’ll be better equipped to spot potential issues early and address them before they escalate, helping your dog stay happy, balanced, and calm.
Products and Treatments to Help Your Dog Overcome Anxiety
If your dog is stressed, there are many products and treatments that can help. Here are some popular and effective options:
- Anxiety Vests: Compression garments like the Thundershirt provide gentle, constant pressure that many dogs find comforting and calming.
- Calming Chews: Treats like Zesty Paws Calming Bites with chamomile and L-theanine help calm a nervous dog.
- Anxiety Supplements: Liquid remedies such as Rescue Remedy for Pets can be given before stressful events and help calm a dog.
- Calming Beds: Scented, donut-shaped beds like Calming Pheromone Beds provide a secure space for dogs to relax when they're feeling anxious.
- Interactive Toys: Puzzle toys like the Outward Hound Puzzle Toy keep a stressed dog's mind off toying with treats and can help alleviate boredom-induced anxiety.
Helping Your Dog Lead a Happy, Carefree Life
Helping a dog overcome anxiety takes time, patience, and the right tools. By watching their behavior, addressing triggers, and using products that help calm them, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog to thrive in.
At Canine Wellness Academy, we're here to help you help your dog. Your dog's mental health is just as important as their physical health and with the right approach, you can help your dog live a calm and happy life.