During the COVID-19 pandemic, the term "dog's life" took on a whole new meaning as dogs became accustomed to the almost constant presence and extra attention from their owners.
However, canine behavior experts are wondering what the impact will be when life returns to normal in the fall...
What is Separation Anxiety?
Does an animal that's afraid of something specific necessarily suffer from anxiety? Is it an anxious animal that is afraid of everything?
In fact, fear is an emotion experienced in the presence of a recognizable danger. Fear is essential for survival. It helps us make safe decisions. So it is normal, even though it can sometimes be exaggerated in certain contexts.
The behavior and reactions of an anxious person are similar to those of a fearful person. Anxiety, however, is a condition, a feeling that persists over time.
Moreover, it is generally secondary to expectations, and the trigger is often difficult to identify. This state of vigilance and tension puts the animal in a state of alertness, making it difficult to adapt and learn on a daily basis.
Stress for Owners
Returning to work is not only a concerning situation for dogs but also very stressful for owners.
If humans are creatures of habit, so are dogs. Separation anxiety cases take time to resolve and require follow-up.
A Genetic Factor?
Like humans, according to dog trainers, certain types of anxiety are due to a genetic predisposition combined with the environment.
"Dogs suffering from separation anxiety have a genetic predisposition. Unfortunately, many people saw an opportunity to make money by breeding dogs that should not have been bred, because the lure was there. The origin of the animals is a problematic aspect. Sometimes it works out well, but sometimes it can lead to major problems,"
Trainers also warn people adopting their dogs from unscrupulous kennels.
What Can Stress Your Dog?
There are many causes of anxiety, such as the following:
Animal Genetics
A dog suffering from separation anxiety may have a genetic predisposition. Unfortunately, many people saw an opportunity to make money by breeding dogs that should not have been bred because of financial gain. The origin of the animals is a problematic aspect. Sometimes, this can lead to major issues.
The Environment in Which They Live
An anxious dog living in an environment conducive to amplifying their stress can cause behavioral problems and discomfort for your pet.
Postpartum Experiences
Dogs with a painful past may suffer from separation anxiety more than others, so it's essential to pay attention to their well-being and provide extra care.
Is it Normal for My Dog to Be Anxious?
At a low level and when the cause can be identified, anxiety is completely normal. For example, your dog might be anxious when they associate a time or place with a bad past experience, discomfort, insecurity, or something else.
As a result, they may become anxious:
- In the car
- In the presence of new people
- When they arrive in a new environment
- At the vet
- When they hear certain noises, etc...
In these situations, this feeling, very similar to fear, should disappear as soon as the source of the problem moves away. But sometimes, anxiety can persist and significantly affect your dog’s quality of life.
When is Your Dog's Anxiety Unusual?
Anxiety can become a problem when it persists, even when there is no "danger" or apparent reason to worry.
In this situation, your dog cannot properly assess how dangerous the situation is and anticipates a threat.
This emotion of fear, which can become almost constant, causes emotional suffering in the dog and forces them to be constantly on alert.
Often, due to this feeling of almost constant insecurity, their learning ability is impaired, and usual training or education techniques often do not have the desired effect.
Moreover, no matter how obedient your dog is, they may not be able to respond to basic commands in moments that may seem insignificant.
Why is that? Because obedience does not help them distinguish between the presence and absence of a threat.
Depending on your personality, your dog may develop a variety of problematic behaviors that are a secondary cause of their anxiety.
What Are These Behaviors?
For example, they may bark excessively or show aggression.
The expression of different behaviors related to fear or anxiety varies between dogs.
Here are the most common signs of anxiety your dog may experience:
- Barking and whining
- Immobilization: for example, refusing to move during a walk
- Avoidance, fleeing, or hiding: always hiding when you have visitors
- Exaggerated motor activity
- Excitement
- Trembling
- Increased vigilance: reacting to every sound, movement
- Inability to relax
- Scratching doors or floors
- Stiffening of the body
- Tail down or between legs
- Ears and face pulled back
- Frequent yawning
- Sighing, puffed cheeks
- Drooling
- Defecation and/or urination
- Seeking attention: trying to interact with you excessively.
Dog in a Constant State of Alert
A vigilant animal is in constant observation, alert, and sensitive to the slightest change. This may often go unnoticed, as the animal may just seem focused on something or in "observation" mode.
During Storms?
Anxious dogs may have a phobia of storms. If your dog shows signs of anxiety during storms or similar events...
What to Do If My Dog Is Stressed?
Provide a Calm Environment
Place your pet in an environment that allows them to be as calm as possible, with the fewest sources of anxiety possible.
For example:
- Play background music to mask ambient noise
- Walk in low-traffic areas
- Block access to stressful areas
- Use a calm voice when talking to your dog
- Avoid stressful situations
Don’t Force Them
Don’t force your dog into an environment or to interact with a person who disturbs them. If they refuse to approach or interact, respect their decision.
Create Positive Situations
Offer your pet things they love in the presence of things that cause them anxiety. For example, when visitors arrive, offer your dog a treat so that they associate the arrival of strangers with something pleasant.
Establish Routines
Dogs are creatures of habit, and a consistent routine can help alleviate their anxiety. Try to stick to a regular schedule for feeding, walking, and playtime. Consistency helps your dog feel secure and understand what to expect each day.
- Keep regular mealtimes and bedtime
- Maintain a predictable walk routine
- Offer calming activities such as puzzle toys or safe chew items to keep their mind occupied
Gradual Desensitization
If your dog is anxious about a particular situation, like being left alone, start by leaving them for short periods of time and gradually increase the length of your absence. This teaches your dog that you'll always come back, reducing their fear of abandonment.
Gradual exposure to the source of anxiety can help them adjust to it more comfortably over time.
Use Natural Solutions to Relieve Anxiety
There are natural solutions available that can help reduce anxiety in your dog:
- CBD Oil: CBD is widely used to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs. It can help calm the nervous system without sedation.
- Calming Chews or Supplements: Specially designed treats with natural ingredients like chamomile or valerian root can help calm your dog's nerves.
- Pheromone Diffusers: Devices like Adaptil release pheromones that mimic those of a mother dog, which can have a calming effect on anxious dogs.
- Herbal Remedies: Herbal supplements containing ingredients like passionflower, lavender, or L-theanine can naturally reduce anxiety.
Before trying any supplements or natural remedies, it's best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your pet.
Professional Help for Dog Anxiety
If your dog’s anxiety is severe, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. They can work with you to develop a customized behavior modification plan that includes:
- Positive reinforcement training
- Counter-conditioning techniques
- Guidance on how to handle stressful situations
- Potential medication if necessary
With professional guidance, you can better understand the root cause of your dog's anxiety and work towards creating a more peaceful environment for them.
Conclusion: Helping Your Dog Overcome Anxiety
Anxiety is a common problem in dogs, especially in times of transition or after traumatic experiences. While some degree of anxiety can be normal, persistent anxiety can negatively affect your dog's quality of life.
By understanding the causes of their anxiety, implementing calming routines, and providing positive experiences, you can help your dog feel more secure and less stressed. If necessary, natural remedies or professional assistance can further alleviate their distress and guide them towards a more balanced, happy life.
In the end, your patience, care, and understanding can go a long way in helping your dog overcome their anxiety and live a healthy, contented life.
