As pet parents we want to do what we can, as quickly as we can, to soothe our dogs. If we notice our dog is suffering from anxiety — whether separation, a new situation, or another reason — we want to know, “What can I give my dog for anxiety?” There are a myriad of options. Read on for our advice!
Whether your dog suffers from anxiety because of:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Is generally nervous
Tips to help an anxious dog
Medications can help calm a dog but we want to help you find ways to calm your dog without them — if possible. You can tell your dog is anxious if he pants paces and drools when you’re getting ready to leave the house. Your leaving causes his separation anxiety and you feel guilty — we get it!
Check with your veterinarian to have him or her rule out any physical or mental health issues with your dog that are causing their anxiety.
How can you help? Consider this advice
- You can train your dog to address her anxious behavior. Training is better than any quick fix. Train your dog to assume a calm, relaxed posture while you’re moving away from him for longer and longer periods. Make sure he has a bed or safe place to retreat when you’re leaving. Move out of your dog’s sight and stay away longer until your dog understands you will be back.
- A pressure wrap helps to lower heart rate and decreases yawning and tongue-flicking stress behaviors. It should be used in dogs diagnosed with anxiety. Acclimate your dog to this before you just put it on and leave the house.
- Probiotics can also help with separation anxiety by modulating stress hormones.
- Touch and massage can decrease stress and positively impact the immune system in your dog as well as calm him.
- Aromatherapy — it might not be something you think about but if you apply lavender or chamomile could help your dog relax. Essential oils must be used cautiously and discussed with your vet before you use them.
- Calming sprays or diffusers that include pheromones can help pets to deal with stress differently.
- DOGTV! It’s designed to ease stress, anxiety and loneliness in a nonmedicinal way. Try DOGTV free for 7 days and see how much it can help your dog!
Let us know how you help your pup with his or her separation anxiety. Also, subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more helpful tips and advice for the health and happiness of your dog!