…and How to Help
After the excitement and loud noises of Halloween and Bonfire Night, many dogs experience heightened anxiety, especially with the holiday season just around the corner. The combination of new sounds, unfamiliar visitors, and disrupted routines can lead to stress for our furry friends. It’s essential to recognise the signs of anxiety early on so that we can take steps to help alleviate their discomfort.
Recognising Anxiety in Your Dog: Dogs, much like humans, can feel overwhelmed by their environment. Some common signs that your dog may be experiencing anxiety include:
- Pacing and Restlessness: Your dog may appear unable to settle or constantly be on the move, showing signs of nervous energy.
- Excessive Barking or Whining: If your dog is barking more than usual or whimpering, it may indicate that they are feeling stressed or frightened.
- Shaking or Trembling: Dogs experiencing anxiety may tremble or shake, particularly in stressful situations like fireworks or large crowds.
- Hiding or Seeking Solitude: A dog that seeks refuge in a corner, under furniture, or in a room away from the action might be showing signs of fear or discomfort.
- Destructive Behaviour: Anxiety can lead to destructive tendencies like chewing on furniture, scratching at doors, or digging. These actions are often an attempt to escape the source of anxiety or relieve stress.
What You Can Do to Help:
- Provide a Safe Haven: During times of high stress, create a designated safe space in your home where your dog can retreat. This should be a quiet, dimly lit area with their favourite blanket or toy. This allows your dog to feel protected from outside noises or disruptions.
- Use Calming Products: Various products are designed to ease anxiety in dogs, such as calming collars, pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, and even natural calming treats. These can help provide comfort when loud noises or unfamiliar situations arise.
- Maintain a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Try to keep your dog’s feeding, walking, and playtime schedules as consistent as possible, even during the holiday season. Predictability can help reduce anxiety and give your dog a sense of control.
- Gradual Desensitisation: If your dog reacts fearfully to specific stimuli, such as fireworks or loud music, gradually exposing them to these sounds at lower volumes can help them become desensitised over time. Pair this exposure with positive reinforcement, like treats, to create a positive association.
- Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Regular exercise is vital for reducing anxiety. A tired dog is a calm dog! Additionally, providing mental stimulation through training or puzzle toys can help focus your dog’s energy on something positive, especially during stressful events.
- Seek Our Professional Help: If your dog’s anxiety seems severe or persistent, we can help. Professional help can make a big difference. A dog trainer or behaviourist, like Frontier K9 Services, can create a personalised plan to address your dog’s specific challenges. Through tailored techniques or focused training methods, they can help your dog manage anxiety and improve their well-being.
As the festive season approaches, it’s important to prepare for the increase in stressors your dog may face. With the right tools and approach, you can help your furry friend navigate these busy times with less anxiety and more comfort. Keep an eye on their behaviour, and offer reassurance as needed. With patience and proactive care, you can help your dog thrive during the holidays and beyond.
Need our help? We are always here to assist you, even with advice and suggestions. Contact Us Today.
