Can your dog have anxiety? The short answer, yes. Anxiety is anticipatory fear of danger which causes intense feelings of emotional distress.
For dogs, anxiety can be caused by multiple factors including pain, age, and past trauma. Anxiety can show itself in quite a few ways.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common form of anxious behavior that impacts your furry-friend. If your dog is displaying destructive behavior, having accidents in the house, barking uncontrollably, or becoming an escape artist, chances are they’re experiencing separation anxiety.
This form of anxiety can come about for quite a few reasons. If your dog has been recently adopted, they may be holding on to a fear of abandonment. Having a new guardian can be an adjustment for your pup. In fact, it takes new puppies and dogs up to three weeks to adjust to a new home.
Snuggle Puppy has been proven to help your dog adjust to their new home! Snuggle Puppy comes with a heat pack and real-feel heartbeat proven to calm your pet naturally. Keep Snuggle Puppy in your pup’s crate or where they tend to relax to help eliminate their separation anxiety.
Fear-Related Anxiety
Fear-related anxiety can be caused by loud sounds, other animals, and other phobias caused by past trauma. Fear-related anxiety may also be triggered if your dog sees something that holds a memory of a past experience. If you notice that your dog is panting, shaking, or hesitant to continue walking, chances are they are experiencing fear-related anxiety.
Places like the vet’s office are a common space for dog’s to hold onto fear. Help ease your dog’s anxiety by casually stopping by to see your vet. Bring some treats along and call ahead to let staff know that you’re getting your pup used to their environment.
Age Related Anxiety
Age-related anxiety happens when your dog grows a little older and their senses may not be as strong as they used to be. Senses like sight, vision, and hearing may be impared. Senior dog’s bodies cannot handle activity the same way that they did when they were puppies. Like humans, dogs can experience anxiety from body aches and pains.
Ease your older dog’s anxiety by creating a safe and comforting space for them at home. Snuggle Blanket has super soft fabric and provides warmth for your pet and a cozy space to reduce anxiety. It makes any spot comfy and relaxing with familiar smells and texture.
Not sure what to do if your dog is displaying anxiety?
Check with your vet! If your dog’s anxiety is impacting their day-to-day activities and quality of life, it may be time for your vet to intervene.
The Snuggle Puppy Blog has many tips and tricks for new dog parents. All dogs may respond differently to behavioral techniques, so always keep reading and learning how to comfort and communicate with your dog effectively. Looking for more information on anxiety? Check out ‘How Snuggle Puppy Can Help Your Adult Dog’.
