People can suffer from anxiety, obviously, but so can dogs. Any breed at any age can suffer from anxiety and, if left untreated, can lead to bad behavior problems. Let’s go over the causes, symptoms to look out for, treatments and how to prevent anxiety all together.

Causes of Dog Anxiety

There are three main causes of anxiety. Aging, fear, and separation. Any canine can suffer from one to all three of these and there are varying degrees to which a dog can suffer.

Aging

As dogs reach their golden years, they can start having issues with memory, perceptions, hearing and can even start showing signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome, also known as CDS. Losing these abilities can understandably lead to depression and anxiety as they start to become more dependent and less able to care for themselves.

Fear

Unfamiliar places, people, loud noises or even common items like balloons or stuffed animals can spark fear for a dog. What is common place to us is unfamiliar to them. My dog was afraid of my daughter’s history project display because it stood 24 inches high and 24 inches across. A much larger presence than he was, and it was only around for about a week so his fear of it was understandable.

Separation

Separation anxiety affects 14-40% of dogs at some point during their life (depending on what studies you want to believe). Why some dogs suffer from anxiety and others don’t depends on some factors we may or may not know. But it does not negate the fact that separation anxiety can be a real and costly problem for all pet parents if left unaddressed.

Symptoms

How can you tell if your cute canine is suffering from anxiety? Here is a list of some of the most common symptoms.

• Urinating or defecating in the house
• Excessive drooling or panting
• Aggression or destructive behavior
• Depression
• Excessive barking
• Pacing and restlessness
• Repetitive or compulsive behaviors

Treatments

Just like with humans, there are ways to treat your dog’s anxiety. Your best bet is to talk to your vet directly about the symptoms your dog is displaying so you both can come up with the best way to relieve the stress. Here are some of the more common options you may want to discuss during your next visit.

Medication

Using medication is a great way to address anxiety for short term situational events such as moving or fireworks. There are several medications available that specifically address anxiety and depression that your vet can discuss with you.

Training

Obedience training is a great way to help your pooch feel confident in his own skin…well in his own fur, so to speak. Training can help your dog build confidence and trust with you and give you great tools to train for good behavior and minimize bad behavior.

Natural Remedies

If you’re looking for non-drug solutions, we’ve got you covered. There are several options available that are proven and safe for any pet.

• Pet Tunes – That’s right, music for your pet. Calming music can be played for your pet while you’re at work or even running errands and need to leave Fido at home. IPH carries Pet Tune Cubes at both of our locations, or you can find them online at Amazon, and any of the major pet stores.
• Pheromones – Our Fear Free certified staff sprays down every day with calming pheromones and we have diffusers in each exam room as well. They don’t have an odor so you can easily use them in your home as well.
• Calming Jacket or Thunder Vest – These are great to use in situational events like the Fourth of July or when you have unfamiliar guests in your home. The gentle pressure these vests provide give a dog a sense of calm and security. You can find these vests just about anywhere online or in the major pet stores.

Prevention

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” as Benjamin Franklin put it. It’s as true for you as it is for your dog. Here are a couple of tips to help avoid your dog suffering from anxiety.

• Avoiding situations that will trigger a dog’s anxiety – If you know Fido is going to freak out during a fireworks show or will bark continuously when company comes over, it might be best to remove him from the situation altogether. Taking your dog to a friend or relative’s house while you have a party will make him, and your guests, more comfortable.
• Exercise – Regular exercise is not only good for your dog physically, but mentally as well. Dogs with regular outlets for their spunk and energy are less likely to start bad habits or destructive behavior.
• Socializing your dog – A well socialized dog is also less likely to become stressed in other less familiar crowds. If your dog has a chance to continually meet new dogs and play in safe and controlled environments, they have a better chance at meeting new people and pets with ease and confidence.

It is always best to talk to your vet about what symptoms your pooch is displaying and discuss all of the possible causes and treatments for your favorite furry family member.