7 Proven Ways to Calm Your Anxious Dog

Do you know that animals like humans also suffer from anxiety? Yes, animals cannot speak, but they do suffer from these issues. For us, anxiety can be debilitating and overwhelming at times, but fortunately, we can express our anxious behavior.

What about animals, such as dogs? How do they show their anxious feelings? Some of the noticeable signs are shaking, lip wicking, frequent yawning, and decreased appetite.

Anxiety in dogs often stems from being abandoned by their owners or their environment. It can also arise because of the different types of phobias. Thinking of the cure for anxious behavior in dogs? Calming an anxious dog is possible with proper care and attention.

7 Common Yet Proven Ways To Calm Your Anxious Dog

1. Excercise

Exercise is a stress-reliever for us humans. Right? So is with the dogs. Exercise stimulates serotonin production, which is a feel-good chemical. Exercise also helps the dogs to get away from pent-up energy and tension that enhance anxiety levels.

It has a calming effect on the dogs that help to reduce their cortisol level, which is responsible for increasing anxiety. Burning off all that extra energy through running, exercise walks, and even fetching toys can go a long way to reduce anxiety in your dog.

2. Music

Wondering whether music can calm a dog or not? Yes, it does. We humans are not the only ones who get calmed by soothing music. Many owners leave a radio or television when they go out of the house so that dogs are comfortable and do not feel alone.

With music, dogs are in a much-relaxed state. Moreover, it is quite useful in situations, especially when the anxiety is on account of travel and separation.

3. Distraction

If your dog is nervous because of fireworks or thunderstorms, then distracting or engaging the dog’s brain proves to be effective. This would help your dog to shift focus from the unknown ones that make him anxious.

You can always distract the dog by engaging in simple tricks and instructions such as sit, lie down, shake, sit down, rollover, and many others.

And yes, don’t forget to reward your dog! This would prove to be a stress -reliever for him. You can also involve your dog in toys such as a jug tug or treat ball to motivate him and calm his anxiety.

4. Anxiety Vest

Wishing you could help your dog in one way or another from their anxiety and fears. Right? Now, you don’t have to worry a lot. There are anxiety vests for dogs that help them calm down when they are uncomfortable due to anxiety or phobia.

Anxiety vest compresses their body, thereby offering them a feeling of reassurance. These apply pressure on the dog’s torso, causing a calming effect similar to that caused by hugging a distressed person. This also calms down the dog’s breathing and is available in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles.

5. Massage

Wondering that dogs also love a massage? Yes, they do. Long and slow strokes not only soothe the nerves but also calm down an anxious dog. A popular touch massage method for dogs involves circular movements of fingers and hands all over the dog’s body.

This activates the function of body cells and stirs cellular intelligence. This relaxes your dog to a significant extent. Do you know that petting a dog helps calm your nerves as well? So, massaging your dog is a win-win solution!

6. Visit Vet

Getting anxious every now and then is normal for dogs. However, if you notice him having difficulty controlling his fear and anxiety, then ensure a vet visit. Prior to the visit, do not forget to write the circumstances under which your dog became anxious.

Also, tell the vet about what triggers him. It is possible that your dog is not visibly ill, but your vet will rule out any chances of illness post-examination.

7. Cuddle your Dog

Apart from talking and playing with your dog, physical touch also plays a big role. Treat your dog with cuddles or petting and observe the change. I bet that your dog will feel stress-free with your caring touch.

Final Words

So, with true dedication and correct professional assistance, you will be able to make your dog healthier and happier. The happier your dog is; the more stress-free he is, and you are!