Did you know dogs experience stress and anxiety just like humans? Because they are unable to communicate with words, you may notice slight changes in behaviour. Your fur baby may be unusually clingy, shake or shiver. But there are lesser-known signs—showing the whites of their eyes, excessive licking, yawning, showing off their gums—that may indicate your precious pup is dealing with stress and anxiety.
The things that stress us out as humans, don’t necessarily translate to the dog world. Can you imagine if your stress levels went up if someone redecorated the lounge room or decided to take you for a car ride?
You might think it’s silly that rearranging furniture or a fun trip to the beach might trigger anxiety for your doggo, but then their brains don’t work like ours.
We want our furry friends to have a PAWsome life, so one of the best things you can do to help your dog with stress and anxiety is to understand their triggers.
What is one of the biggest causes of stress in dogs?
Separation anxiety
To your dog, you are their whole world. Being apart from you can result in behavioural patterns such as excess whining, urinating or even trying to escape.
What can I give my dog for separation anxiety?
Use special treats
Don’t make a big deal of when you leave the house or return. If you keep your comings and goings low key and keep your dog occupied with enrichment puzzles or special treats that are only used when you leave the house, your dog will become familiar with the routine. It may start to look forward to treat time. You can give your buddy a boost of bravery with Australian Pet Organics range of Calm Support Treats. The certified organic & natural ingredients are perfect for pooches with nervous dispositions.
Leave out clothes or a towel with your scent
Your woofy-smelling t-shirts and dirty laundry can be a source of security and safety for your pup. An anxious dog left inside may tend to go on the hunt for clothes that are lying around on the floor or sleep on top of your bed. Why? Because it smells just like you and can instil a sense of calmness
Tire your dog out before you leave the house
Before you head tor work for the day, there’s nothing like a big walk and a run to leave your dog feeling ready for a nap. Tufts University clinical instructor and veterinarian, Dr. Stephanie Borns-Well, knows dogs who are physically fit have less anxiety. They are also less likely to destroy furniture while you’re out.
Use a natural calming supplement
Supplement your dog’s diet with natural organic supplements from Australian Pet Organics. The mood-levelling ingredients are designed to leave your dog feeling relaxed and chilled out. Calm Support has no nasties or additives, so it’s safe for use for dogs of all ages.
Keep your anxiety and stress levels under control
Dogs have an innate way of sensing how you’re feeling. If you’re nervous they will pick up on these signals and mirror your behaviour patterns. The calmer you are, the more chilled out your dog will be.
Consult your vet
A small degree of separation anxiety is normal for some dogs, but if organic calming supplements and treats don’t seem to be working, please consult your local veterinarian.
Find more great advice and tips for your pet right here!
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