Calming Techniques for Anxious Dogs: A Guide to Helping Your Furry Friend Feel at Ease

Dogs, like humans, can experience anxiety, which may arise from various situations like separation, loud noises, or new environments. As pet owners, it’s essential to recognize the signs of anxiety and learn techniques to help calm and support our dogs. In this post, we will explore the signs and symptoms of dog anxiety, provide actionable calming techniques, and discuss whether anxiety can be managed or trained out of a dog.

Disclaimer: I am not a certified professional; all information provided is based on my personal experience and research. If you have specific questions or concerns regarding your dog, please contact your vet or a certified trainer. This post may include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase from these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you in advance for your purchases.

What Are the Signs of Anxiety in Dogs?

Recognizing anxiety in your dog is the first step toward helping them. Symptoms can vary, but common signs include:

• Pacing or Restlessness: Dogs may wander around aimlessly or refuse to settle down.
• Excessive Barking or Whining: A dog experiencing anxiety may bark excessively or whine as a way of expressing discomfort.
• Trembling or Shaking: Anxiety can cause physical signs like trembling, especially during situations like thunderstorms or fireworks.
• Panting or Drooling: When dogs are anxious, they often exhibit panting or drooling, even when it’s not hot.
• Destructive Behavior: Chewing, digging, or scratching at doors can be a result of anxiousness.
• Escape Attempts: Some dogs may try to escape their environment, which can be dangerous in stressful situations.
• Changes in Body Posture: Tucked tails, flattened ears, and crouching are signs that a dog is feeling nervous or anxious.

Each dog reacts differently to anxiety, so it’s important to observe behavioral changes and respond appropriately. For more detailed information on signs of anxiety, check out our post: Spotting Stress: 10 Telltale Signs Your Dog Might Be Feeling Stressed.

How to Settle an Anxious Dog: Effective Calming Techniques

Now that we’ve identified the signs, let’s explore some proven techniques to help calm your anxious dog. These methods can provide immediate relief and help reduce stress over time.

1. Create a Safe Space Every dog should have a safe, quiet space where they can retreat when feeling anxious. Whether it’s a cozy crate, a special corner of a room, or a dog bed, this space should be free from excessive noise and distractions.
   • Tip: Add familiar items like their favorite blanket or toy to make the space more comforting.
2. Use Calming Products There are various calming products designed to help dogs with anxiety, including:
   • Calming Wraps or Thundershirts: These work by applying gentle pressure, mimicking a hug, which can help soothe anxiety.
   • Calming Sprays and Diffusers: Products with pheromones (like Adaptil) can create a calming effect and are ideal for anxious dogs in stressful situations like travel or loud noises.
   • Supplements: Natural supplements containing ingredients like L-Theanine, chamomile, or CBD oil can help promote relaxation.
     • Check out these Calming Supplements you can find on Amazon
       • VetIQ Calming Support Supplements for Dogs
       • Charlie & Buddy Hemp Oil for Dogs and Cats
       • Bocce’s Bakery Calming Supplements for Dogs
3. Provide Physical Comfort Sometimes, all your dog needs is a little physical affection. Gently petting or massaging your dog can go a long way toward calming their nerves.
   • Tip: Avoid too much excitement; use slow, gentle strokes, focusing on their ears, back, and chest to help soothe them.
4. Engage in Calming Activities Introducing structured activities can help alleviate anxiety by giving your dog something else to focus on. Consider:
   • Puzzle Toys and Snuffle Mats: These engage their minds and offer a productive outlet for nervous energy.
   • Obedience Training: Teaching your dog simple commands or practicing ones they already know can redirect their attention and reduce anxiety.
5. Exercise and Playtime Exercise is a fantastic way to reduce anxiety by burning off excess energy. Daily walks, games of fetch, or playtime with other dogs can help your anxious pet feel more relaxed and satisfied.
   • Tip: Make sure the exercise fits their age and physical abilities. Overexertion can sometimes make anxiety worse.
6. Use Sound Therapy Music and white noise can be powerful tools in calming anxious dogs, especially during triggering events like thunderstorms or fireworks. Consider using specially designed dog music or calming classical music to soothe your dog. Using a white noise machine like this one allows you to travel with it and provide a safe spave for your dog anywhere
   • Tip: Create a playlist for your dog and play it during stressful times to create a calming association.

Can You Train Anxiety Out of a Dog?

Training can be incredibly effective in managing anxiety, but it’s essential to understand that anxiety is not something that can be “trained out” in the traditional sense. Instead, anxiety is a condition that requires ongoing management. Behavioral training can, however, help your dog learn coping mechanisms to better handle anxiety-inducing situations. For more tips on raising a calm and relaxed dog, check out our post: How to Raise a Calm and Relaxed Dog: Tips for Pet Parents.

• Desensitization and Counterconditioning This type of training involves slowly exposing your dog to their anxiety triggers in a controlled manner, while simultaneously providing positive reinforcement. Over time, your dog can become less reactive to the stimulus.
  • Example: If your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, you might play low-level recordings of thunder sounds, gradually increasing the volume while giving treats or praise when your dog remains calm.
• Obedience Training Teaching your dog basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “place” can provide structure and help calm them down. Obedience training is particularly useful because it allows you to redirect their attention away from the anxiety-inducing stimulus.
• Professional Support If your dog’s anxiety is severe or persistent, consider working with a certified dog trainer or behaviorist who specializes in anxiety. They can provide personalized techniques and training plans suited to your dog’s specific needs.

Treatment Options for Anxiety in Dogs

Some dogs require more than just behavioral training and calming techniques to manage their anxiety. Treatment options include:

• Veterinary Support If your dog’s anxiety is severe, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions and may recommend medications to help manage anxiety.
  • Common Anxiety Medications: Fluoxetine, Alprazolam, and Clomipramine are some common medications prescribed for anxious dogs.
• Natural Remedies If you prefer a more natural approach, there are several options you can explore:
  • CBD Oil: This has gained popularity for its calming effects and can help reduce anxiety in dogs.
  • Herbal Supplements: Chamomile and valerian root are natural remedies known to help with anxiety.

Support for Owners of Anxious Dogs

Dealing with a dog’s anxiety can be challenging, but there are plenty of resources and communities available to support you. Remember that consistency, patience, and understanding are key when helping an anxious dog. Each dog is unique, so what works for one dog may not work for another. Stay positive, and continue to try different calming techniques to find what best suits your furry friend.

Conclusion

Helping an anxious dog can be a long process, but with the right techniques and tools, you can provide your dog with a sense of security and calm. Whether it’s creating a safe space, using calming products, or engaging in behavioral training, there are many ways to alleviate anxiety and improve your dog’s quality of life.