HOW TO CALM MY ANXIOUS DOG?

Anxiety seems to be a common trait in many dogs and with the rise in work from home arrangements due to snap lockdowns or extended lockdowns due to COVID-19 outbreaks, more and more pets seem to now suffer from separation anxiety. 

Anxiety can present in many ways - biting, excessive barking, chewing everything in sight. Anxious dogs often exhibit signs of discomfort - shivering, whimpering, hostile behaviour or even becoming withdrawn can be signs of anxiety.

However there is a silver lining, anxiety can be managed and in many cases can be completely cured. 

To help you, I have put together some ways to try and reduce anxiety. 

EXERCISE YOUR DOG

Anxiety can cause an excess of energy. Taking your dog out to play ball or on a good long walk before you leave can be helpful as your pet will benefit from the beneficial endorphins that exercise brings.

PHYSICAL CONTACT AND MASSAGE

There is probably nothing more soothing to an anxious dog than a nice massage. Start at the neck and work downward with long strokes. Try to keep one hand on the dog, while the other works to massage. Over time you may even be able to identify where your dog holds its stress and just work on that one area.

MUSIC

Music can be calming and relaxing and can alleviate noise sensitivity by blocking the scary noises.

TIME-OUT

Give your dog a safe and quiet space. This can help calm their nerves. Crate training your dog and providing it with a safe place is a good start.

CALMING COATS

A thunder coat or shirt applies mild, constant pressure to a dog's body. These must be put on first when the dog is calm and not already anxious. Do not leave the thunder coat/shirt on if your dog is outside as they can easily overheat in summer.

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES

Hemp Oil (Broad Spectrum): I have seen complete changes in anxious dogs once they start having hemp oil daily. Follow the dosage instructions in our hemp oil guide. 

Hemp Balm: Great to use whilst massaging your dog. With 4 other essential oils to help.

Diffuser: You can add pure lavender essential oils as well as a carrier oil to your diffuser. This will help calm your dog. Remember to never run a diffuser in a closed room.