Dogs have been one of the most intimate domesticated animals to men who live with them. In most circumstances, they bond so that they represent another family member, which is why their behavior directly affects the common welfare. Anxiety is not only a typical trait in humans, but also animals can suffer from anxiety. Many of the canines in our care have anxiety — which usually stems from being abandoned by their owners and the shelter surroundings in general. Dogs experience anxiety much in the same way we do, and being a dog parent with an anxious pup (and maybe nervous yourself!) isn't fun for anyone; dogs can't tell their owners in expressions if they are feeling stressed and anxious, but there are few signs to watch for in the form of troubling or aggressive behaviors such as your dog might try to tell you that he's stressed by pushing his ears back, tucking his tail, salivating, yawning, licking his muzzle, or lifting his front paw. Additional, more obvious signs of dog anxiety have cowering or hiding, trembling, panting, or expressing his anal glands.
Anxiety in dogs can present in different forms
Separation Anxiety
Anxiety in your dog may result from separation anxiety around their relationship with you. If your dog feels insecure when you are not present or sense weakness in you or other family members, they may react with anxiety. For some dogs, wearing designer dog coats or clothes can help when it comes to their anxiety levels; this is usually the case for dogs with separation anxiety. Dogs are hierarchical pack members; they need a strong, confident person and a feeling of having a place in their pack to feel secure. If this is missing or compromised, they may become anxious. In addition, post-traumatic stress conditions and past abuse may result in anxiety in your dog.
Social Anxiety
Social anxiety is rather commonly exhibited in different situations and to varying degrees. Dogs that experience social anxiety are more potential to exhibit symptoms like barking, lunging, and aggression when around new people or unfamiliar pets. The cause of social anxiety usually stems from a lack of socialization or bad experiences in early adolescence. Taking your dog to the veterinarian physically like a vet can give you the answer to your queries and help you to set forth an action plan. Although overcoming this anxiety is time-consuming, the undertaking can even be effective for adult dogs.
Rescue Anxiety
Rescuing a puppy takes a lot of courage, patience, and a special kind of commitment. Many rescue and shelter dogs have experienced abandonment and emotional trauma, which often translates to anxiety when they take to their forever homes. A shelter or rescue popper's fear might be triggered, such as Sudden movements, loud noises, meeting new people, and Feeling intimidated by other dogs. These dogs are also more sensitive to separation anxiety–they may be afraid of being abandoned again.
Help your dog with anxiety
Exercise it out
Like in humans, exercise can be an excellent way to burn off stress and anxiety in dogs. A good run before exiting your dog home alone can help some dogs with mild separation anxiety, but make sure that your dog must wear a reflective dog vest when you go outside. A full tummy can help, too.
Play a variety of music
Play fun, interactive games with your puppy, such as fetch and tug-of-war (before leaving them alone); it helps a lot!
Medications for dogs
Speak to your veterinarian about whether supplements or medication would help. Based on your dog's age, general health history, and severity of symptoms, your veterinarian may suggest a supplement to assist anxious pets or prescribe medication to reduce your dog's anxiety. These anti-anxiety supplements can be used as short-term solutions. At the same time, you continue to train your pet to feel more comfortable alone.
Let them get close
Physical contact can help some stressed and anxious dogs, so let them snuggle up or sit closer to you if they seek comfort. If your dog is comfortable with clothes, you can buy luxury dog clothes. Don't forget that dogs read your emotional cues, too, so don't make too much fuss of them, and act as 'normal' as possible.