How to Calm an Anxious Dog
Dogs, like us humans, can experience anxiety. Whether it's due to separation, loud noises, new environments, or other triggers, seeing your furry friend distressed can be heartbreaking. Fortunately, there are ways to help your anxious pup feel more at ease! It's awful seeing our gorgeous dogs feeling so anxious, so we have five important tips on how to help a dog with anxiety.
5 Tips on How to Calm an Anxious Dog:
1. Create a Safe Space
Just as we have our cosy places where we feel secure, dogs also benefit from having a designated safe space. This could be a crate, a quiet room, the sofa cuddled up to you or even a specific corner with their bed and favourite toys. The idea is to provide a comforting environment where your dog can retreat when feeling anxious. Make sure this space is away from noise and distractions, offering a den-like atmosphere.
2. Use Calming Aids
Various dog anxiety products are available that you can buy which will help to calm your dog's anxiety. Our most popular product is our Snuggle Puppy which is a cuddly dog toy, with a heart beat and heat pad. This is designed to provide comfort and helps relieve anxiety - whether your dog is just a puppy themselves, or through any anxious environment such as fireworks, thunderstorms or whatever it may be.
3. Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is often a calmer dog. Ensure your pup gets enough physical exercise through daily walks, runs, or play sessions. Physical activity helps to release pent-up energy and reduce anxiety (again, similar to us humans!). Additionally, mental stimulation is crucial for your dog's well-being. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training sessions not only keep their minds engaged but also promote relaxation by redirecting their focus.
4. Practice Desensitisation
If your dog has specific triggers for their anxiety, such as loud noises or car rides, gradual desensitisation can be beneficial. This involves exposing your dog to the trigger in a controlled and positive way. For example, if your pup is scared of car rides, start by sitting in the parked car with treats and praise. Gradually progress to short drives, rewarding calm behaviour each step of the way. Over time, your dog can learn that these triggers are not so scary after all!
5. Maintain a Calm Demeanour
Dogs are incredibly attuned to our emotions. When they sense their human is anxious or stressed, it can exacerbate their own anxiety. So, it's essential to stay calm and composed when your dog is feeling uneasy. Speak in soothing tones, avoid sudden movements, and project a sense of tranquillity. Your reassuring presence can work wonders in helping your furry friend feel more secure.
Hopefully these 5 tips on how to calm an anxious dog have helped you and your pup! We want to see your dog be as happy and calm as Mango is below!
