There is nothing more stressful to a pet parent than to imagine his or her dog is having an anxiety attack. We have put together this video to help you recognize the signs and to help alleviate them.
What are the signs your dog is having an anxiety attack?
Anxiety can manifest itself in a variety of ways. The list below is an example of ways a dog may show they are having an anxious episode. Note, a dog doesn't need to exhibit all of these indicators to be suffering from an anxiety attack. You know your dog best, if you see some of these indicators, it's time to explore options to help your pup.
Physical signs of anxiety attacks in a dog can include:
- Trembling/shaking
- A tucked tail between a dog's legs
- Increased vocalizations like whining
- Ears that are pulled back against their head
- Potty accidents in the home
- Panting heavily or drooling
- Restless movements like pacing, walking in circles, or simply not being able to "settle"
- Destructive behaviors like digging or chewing
- Seeking a place to "escape" like under a bed or retreating to a confined space
- Rapid heart rate
- Increased temperature
What should you do if your dog is suffering from an anxiety attack?
Properly identifying the signs of an anxious episode is step one in helping your dog. Once you know this is impacting your dog, do the following:
- Try to identify the trigger that is impacting your dog. It could be loud noises, like thunder, new places, different people, or pets.
- Provide spaces for your pet to retreat to for them to be able to calm themselves away from the trigger. A comfy crate or a quiet room away from the issue are fantastic options.
- Offer calming options like herbal supplements, diffusers with essential oils like lavender, or calming medication that's been prescribed by your veterinarian.
- Try desensitization training by calmly introducing your pet to the thing causing stress in a way that is not threatening. Offering rewards and giving space for them to move further away from the stressor on their own terms.
- Work with a certified behaviorist that can help with additional tips and tricks.
- Speak with your veterinarian about additional options.
- Turn on DOGTV which can help with calming music and videos.
By helping minimize your dog’s anxiety you are helping your dog, yourself, people with whom you interact and you may also be protecting your home from a dog’s destructive behaviors.
DOGTV can help alleviate stress, minimize anxiety, and overcome loneliness in a non-medicinal way.