Dog’s anxiety comes in different types. Separation anxiety, former rescue dog anxiety, and illness-induced anxiety are types of anxiety. A dog can also experience general anxiety and situational anxiety. As their parents return to the office after working from home for so long, more and more pets are experiencing separation anxiety.
A change in routine or exposure to loud noises, among other things, can cause significant changes in your pet’s behavior, according to veterinary specialists from Midss. Behavioral changes are an obvious sign that your pet is under stress. Sometimes dogs develop stress behaviors out of boredom. You are the most knowledgeable about your pet. Sometimes the changes you notice are due to a medical issue, but pets, like humans, can suffer from purely mental or emotional stress.
Although you may believe that medication is required to alleviate your pet’s general anxiety, there are numerous natural remedies for dog anxiety that can also be effective. It just takes time to figure out which one your pet prefers.
How to Calm Dog Anxiety Naturally
Natural solutions are becoming increasingly popular, and the same is true for canines. Veterinarians recommend that you always go to your veterinarian first so that they can diagnose the root cause of the stress and rule out a more serious medical or behavioral issue.
Once your veterinarian has determined that there is no medical problem, these best calm treats for dogs may be just what your pet needs to get back to his normal, happy self.
1. Exercise
Your stress can sometimes become your pet’s stress. If your hectic work schedule prevents you from taking your dog for regular walks, he will become anxious. Changes in routine, loneliness and a sense of being cooped up are all potential sources of stress that can be alleviated by simply taking your dog outside to stretch his legs and get some fresh air.
A tired dog cannot be a happy dog, and getting them out of the house and letting them exercise is sometimes the best home remedy for dog anxiety. Even older dogs require regular physical exercise, as long as it is done in ways that are gentler on their aging joints.
2. Vet-Prescribed Essential Oils
Essential oils can be toxic if consumed, especially by cats, so never apply oils directly to your pet. Nevertheless, if used properly in a household without cats, your dog can still benefit from aromatherapy. It has a calming effect that can help soothe anxiety and reduce stress behaviors.
Lavender oil is one of the most well-known natural pet stress relievers. According to a 2006 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), it can be effective for dogs who have a history of travel anxiety before a long car ride. It’s available without a prescription and is usually harmless when lightly applied to the fabric.
3. Supplements
Pet owners can treat doggy stress with melatonin (stress relief supplement), a hormone that naturally rises in the bloodstream when animals sleep. A calming supplement such as melatonin may help pets stay calm in the short term (for example, before a planned car trip or before a thunderstorm) or sleep better.
Veterinarians frequently recommend L-theanine and L-tryptophan supplements to help with mild to high anxiety times. Zylkene, a milk protein derivative, can help calm dogs naturally. It is frequently used successfully in senior dogs suffering from new, age-related anxiety. It is safe to use on a daily basis, when visiting family, or in other stressful situations where your dog may require multiple days of calming support.
Normal Signs of Anxiety in Dogs
These signs are listed in this article, but keep in mind that the dog does not have to exhibit all of them, and the appearance of some of them does not indicate actual anxiety. Dogs may be exposed to situations that elicit valid responses, such as fear, anxiety, and so on. These are just some of the more common signs of anxious dogs that something needs to be looked into.
- Destructive Behavior
- Increase Vigilance
- Excessive Barking
- Restlessness
- Sleep Changes
- Compulsive Behaviors
- Panting
- Drooling
Conclusion
When your pet is anxious or exhibits stress-related symptoms, it’s easy to become depressed or concerned. Fortunately, in most cases, you can assist them in relaxing, shifting their focus, and feeling less anxious.
This will take time, and you may need to try a few different methods before you get results. You can visit their doctor to give them anxiety meds for dogs that can provide natural mood stabilizers. It’s for their long-term well-being, health, and happiness.