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