Our canine buddies are highly emotional. They can feel nervous, depressed, sad, lonely, and confused, just like people do. These sensations can have a big influence on your pet, both emotionally and physically. In this post, a local Powdersville, SC veterinarian discusses canine anxiety.

How Do I Detect Anxiety in Dogs?

Anxiety symptoms in dogs might vary depending on their stress level and the source of the suffering. For example, if your pet is startled by a sudden loud noise, they may shiver, tuck their tail, seek refuge, or try to flee the location of the sound. Every year, just after the Fourth of July, the number of lost pet reports soars. This is because dogs can be afraid of the loud noises and chaos caused by pyrotechnics, forcing them to escape.

However, when dogs experience separation anxiety and are left alone at home, they frequently indulge in destructive behaviors like digging and chewing. Dogs may exhibit aggressive behavior as a result of anxiousness, which is extremely concerning.

Here are the main symptoms:

• Trembling
• Tucking The Tail 
• Hiding
• Reduced Interest In Play 
• Escape Attempts
• Panting
• Pacing
• Licking 
• Tail Chasing 
• Diarrhea 
• Aggression
• Hot Spots/Lesions From Licking Or Biting,
• Yowling/Barking 
• Destructive Behavior (Getting Into The Trash, Destroying Furniture).
• Cowering 
• Digging
• Not eating
• Soiling improperly
• Restlessness
• Licking the Lips
• Displaying the whites of the eyes (whale eye).

If you believe your beloved pet is suffering from anxiety and have noticed any of those symptoms in your canine companion, please visit your nearest animal clinic immediately. While anxiety cannot be cured, there are steps you can take to help your pet to manage his anxiety.

Do Some Breeds Have A Higher Risk Of Developing Anxiety Than Others?

Anxiety can afflict dogs of any breed, but it is more common in specific breeds. These are the dogs on the roster:

• German Shepherd
• Australian Shepherd
• Border Collie
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Bichon 
• Toy Poodle
• Labrador Retriever
• Cocker Spaniel
• German Shorthaired Pointer
• Vizsla
• Chihuahua
• Basset Hound
• Dachshund
• Greyhound 
• Mini-Schnauzer
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Yorkshire Terrier

As previously noted, dogs who have been abused, neglected, or rehomed are more vulnerable, as are those with certain medical conditions such as dementia. Please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian for more information.

What Is Canine Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety is the most common form of anxiety in dogs. Fido is more or less wired to function in groups. When your pet is left alone, it is very normal for him to become anxious. Dogs lack the ability to vocalize their problems, thus they must rely on other techniques to express their emotional anguish. (In other words, they turn their stress into mischief.) If you return to find your canine partner has made a mess while you were away, separation anxiety could be the culprit.

Any dog can have separation anxiety. However, this is a common occurrence with rescue dogs, most likely because they had been separated from or abandoned by their previous owners. This is also a common problem for pets who have been rehomed.

What Else Causes Anxiety In Dogs?

Fido’s behavior can be influenced by a number of factors, including his temperament, background, living conditions, and breed.

Here are a few things that can create or contribute to anxiety:

Changes

Significant changes can be very traumatic for our beloved pets. Fido, like many of us, tends to acquire habits, and feels more secure on a steady routine. Moving to a new house, meeting a new roommate (whether they have two or four legs), mourning the loss of a loved one, and adjusting to a new daily routine can all be difficult for your canine companion.

Phobias

Fido can develop phobias. Many puppies grow anxious during thunderstorms. Some are terrified of loud noises in general. 

Your pup may also be afraid of being crated. Spending too much time in kennels and other forms of confinement can also cause a dog to develop a severe phobia. Unfortunately, this is frequent among pets who have been abused or neglected.

Sickness

Illness is another option. Dogs, like humans, are susceptible to a wide range of illnesses and injuries. Unfortunately, they have limited knowledge of their situations. Any condition that limits Fido’s senses, locomotion, or nervous system can cause anxiety. Older dogs may develop anxiety as a result of dog dementia.

The Unknown

Fido may react negatively to unfamiliar settings. Dogs, like humans, are happiest when they feel safe and secure. When faced with unfamiliar circumstances or conditions, Fido may get afraid and nervous. Meeting new people and animals may induce anxiety in our beloved dogs.

Insufficient Socialization Proper socialization is essential for dogs to acquire a calm and pleasant disposition as they mature. It is vital to start socializing dogs at a young age. When Fido is young, he needs to meet a lot of new people and see a lot of different places. It is vital that these experiences are enjoyable for him, rather than intimidating. This will make him more open to the world and will help him grow into a cheerful, happy pup.

Other options include the following:

• Conflicts Between Pets
• Discomfort 
• Previous Trauma
• Illness
• Genetics
• Noise 
• Phobias

Seek additional information from your Powdersville, SC veterinarian.

What Can I Do to Help My Dog Manage His Anxiety?

Fortunately, you can help your pet regulate their emotions.

Begin by contacting your veterinarian. If your pet has a medical condition that has not yet been diagnosed, you should have it checked out soon away. Some puppies might benefit from behavioral training.

Medication may be the most effective treatment for some dogs. Before giving your pet any medication or supplement, please contact your veterinarian.

Make sure that your pet receives both mental and physical activity. Walking and playing with your dog will allow him to expend excess energy in an appropriate way. This is also ideal for developing strong partnerships! Stability is also beneficial. Setting up a regular schedule for your pet’s walks and play will considerably improve their overall comfort and well-being.

If your beloved pet experiences separation anxiety, consider acquiring them a pal. Of course, this depends on your budget, home size, and your pet’s history and temperament. This is not a decision to be taken lightly, so consider it carefully. It is crucial to select an appropriate match; if Fido does not get along with his new roommate, he may feel further distress. That would just make matters worse!

Finally, there are products available to help dogs relax and feel comfortable, including calming clothing, appropriate chews, comfort beds, and toys. Ask your Powdersville, SC veterinarian for recommendations.

What Shouldn’t I Do With An Anxious Dog?

First and foremost? Avoid punishing your pet for acting up, or for being nervous or agitated. Fido does not fully grasp the concept of punishment. He is only reliant on natural ways of communication and self-preservation. Reprimanding him may worsen the situation and make him fearful of you. It is best to emphasize positive reinforcement, and focus on rewarding good behavior. For more personalized advice, consult your veterinarian.

Book An Appointment At Our Powdersville, SC Animal Clinic

Have any queries regarding your dog’s health or care? Please do not hesitate to contact us. As your Powdersville, SC pet clinic, we are happy to help!