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Anxious Dogs: Hell for Them and For You
Anxious Dogs: Hell for Them and For You – a situation no caring pet owner wants to experience
You may be familiar with the situation wherein your dog, or that of a neighbour, barks incessantly. Such an experience can prove to be very annoying and upsetting for all concerned. But did you ever think about how the dog is feeling? Or why it’s in that state?
Well, just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety, and it can have a profound impact on their well-being. Anxious dogs are more than just a challenge for their owners. They are living with emotions that, if left unaddressed, can lead to long-term behavioural and health issues.
Understanding what anxiousness in dogs looks like and how it affects both the dog, and their families is essential. Thankfully, with the right treatment and strategies, both the dog and its owner can live happier, more peaceful lives.
So, here we are going to draw your attention, in particular, to a proven treatment for reducing your beloved pet’s anxiety and stress. But a bit of background first…
What Does It Mean for a Dog to Be Anxious?
Canine anxiety is a condition where a dog experiences excessive fear or nervousness, which can be triggered by various factors. It’s important to understand that anxiety in dogs is not just bad behaviour—it’s a response to something that causes them discomfort or fear. There are several types of anxiety in dogs, but the most common ones include separation anxiety, fear-related anxiety, and noise anxiety.
Separation Anxiety: This is one of the most well-known forms of anxiety in dogs. It occurs when a dog becomes overly attached to its owner and experiences distress when left alone.
Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit behaviours like barking excessively, chewing on furniture or shoes, and even having accidents inside the house. The anxiety often stems from the dog’s fear of being abandoned.
Fear-Related Anxiety: Some dogs experience anxiety due to past trauma or genetic predisposition. This type of anxiety manifests when the dog is exposed to certain situations, people, or environments that cause fear. Common triggers can include unfamiliar places, strangers, or other animals.
Noise Anxiety: Many dogs are sensitive to loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, or even the sound of a vacuum. Dogs suffering from noise anxiety may tremble, hide, or vocalise excessively in response to such sounds.
The Impact of Anxiety on a Dog’s Life
Anxiety in dogs affects not only their behaviour but also their physical and mental health. When anxiety is left untreated, it can lead to a variety of health issues, including:
- Physical Symptoms: Anxiety in dogs often manifests in physical ways, such as excessive panting, drooling, and pacing. Dogs with anxiety may also show signs of gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting or diarrhoea, especially in stressful situations.
- Behavioural Problems: Anxiety often leads to destructive behaviour. Dogs with separation anxiety may chew through doors or windows, while those with fear-related anxiety might exhibit aggressive behaviour or avoid certain areas of the house. These behaviours can strain relationships between dogs and their owners, often leading to frustration and confusion.
- Chronic Stress: Just like humans, chronic anxiety can take a toll on a dog’s body. Long-term stress has been linked to conditions such as high blood pressure, weakened immune systems, and even heart disease in dogs.
How Anxiety Treatment Can Improve a Dog’s Life
Thankfully, there are ways to treat and manage anxiety in dogs, which can significantly improve their quality of life and their relationship with their owners.
With proper treatment, an anxious dog can feel more secure, less stressed, and ultimately happier. Here are some treatment options that can make a difference:
Medication: In some cases, medication may be necessary to help manage anxiety. Veterinarians can prescribe anti-anxiety medication to help reduce the intensity of the dog’s anxiety.
HOWEVER, such prescriptions and their use may result in some unpleasant side effects – similar to those often experienced by humans.
Perhaps you’re familiar with the following examples and if so, ask yourself “Do I really want my pet to be taking these drugs?”.
Unlikely!
These prescribed drugs can include Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), Alprazolam (Xanax), Diazepam (Valium) or Amitriptyline
Rather than rely on costly “Big Pharma” solutions, we firmly support the use of natural medication such as KALM-K9.
“What is KALM-K9?” and “How can it help my dog?” are the most asked questions.
Kalm K-9 contains a blend of premium Australian Hi-oleic Peanuts, Flaxseed, and Chia Seeds from the Byron Bay Peanut Butter Company. This creates a delicious peanut butter designed specifically for dogs. We then combine this peanut butter with a proprietary aqueous extract of Vanuatu noble kava.
This all-natural peanut butter will ease your dog’s anxiety and promote a healthy shine to their coat.
When your furry friend is relaxed, you can reclaim your own time and enjoy a stress-free environment.
More in-depth detail about KALM-K9 can be found by clicking on the link below.
In conjunction with the aforementioned natural anxiety treatment, other ways to combat your dog’s anxiety can include:
Behavioural Therapy: One of the most effective ways to treat anxiety in dogs is through behavioural therapy. This approach involves teaching the dog new behaviours to replace anxious reactions. Desensitisation, where a dog is gradually exposed to the thing that triggers their anxiety in a controlled manner, is often used in combination with positive reinforcement training. Over time, this helps the dog build resilience to their fears.
Environmental Modifications: Making the dog’s environment more comfortable can also help alleviate anxiety. For example, creating a designated safe space for the dog to retreat to when feeling stressed or anxious can give them a sense of security.
For dogs with separation anxiety, slowly increasing the time spent alone and using calming aids like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps can help.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Regular exercise is essential for any dog, but it is especially beneficial for those with anxiety. Physical activity helps reduce pent-up energy and stress, and mental stimulation—like puzzle toys or training sessions—can keep the dog’s mind engaged and distracted from anxiety-inducing triggers.
How the Owner’s Life Can Improve
A dog’s anxiety can affect its owner’s life just as much as it affects the dog.
Owners of anxious dogs often feel overwhelmed by their pet’s behaviours They feel frustrated by their inability to help, and guilty for not being able to ease their dog’s distress.
When a dog receives treatment for anxiety, the entire household benefits.
- Peace of Mind: Owners no longer have to worry about coming home to destructive behaviour or managing constant barking or whining. The dog’s calm demeanour brings peace to the household, allowing both the dog and the owner to enjoy each other’s company.
- Stronger Bond: Helping an anxious dog overcome its fears often leads to a deeper bond between the dog and its owner. The owner learns to be more patient and understanding, while the dog starts to trust their human more, knowing they are there to provide support and safety.
- Improved Quality of Life: Anxiety treatment can significantly reduce stress for both the dog and the owner. The dog will feel more secure, and the owner can enjoy a more harmonious and enjoyable relationship with their pet. This improved dynamic leads to a better quality of life for both.
Conclusion
Anxiety in dogs is a serious issue that can impact not only the dog’s well-being but also the quality of life for the entire household. Understanding the causes of anxiety, recognising the symptoms, and seeking proper treatment can help alleviate the challenges that come with having an anxious dog.
Through natural medication, behavioural therapy, environmental adjustments, and plenty of love and patience, anxious dogs can live calmer, happier lives.
In turn, their owners can enjoy a stronger, more positive relationship with their pets. The effort put into addressing canine anxiety pays off in spades, improving the lives of both dog and owner.
