It’s easy to tell when your pooch is happy by their wagging tails, but what about when they’re anxious? One of the most common signs of anxiety in dogs is excessive panting, but how do we know if our pup is panting because it’s hot or if they’re just trying to catch their breath after a quick jog? Our team at Pampa Animal Hospital wants to help you learn to spot potential anxiety signs in your dog and would like to educate you on how you can soothe anxiety in your dog.
Anxiety signs in dogs
Anxiety signs in dogs can be subtle. If your pet is in a situation that could trigger anxiety, such as hearing a thunderstorm, going for a car ride, or meeting new people, watch for the following signs:
- Shaking
- Vocalization
- Aggression
- Destruction
- Inappropriate elimination
- Hyperactivity
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Seeking comfort or hiding
- Excessive licking or chewing
How to soothe anxiety in your dog
Depending on what triggers your pet’s anxiety, some management methods may be more effective than others. However, a multimodal treatment plan generally works best. If you notice anxiety issues in your four-legged friend, try a combination of the following steps:
- Remove your dog’s anxiety triggers — If your dog becomes increasingly agitated as people walk past your window, block their access. Removing anxiety triggers inside and outside your home can help calm your pet.
- Stick to a schedule — Sudden changes in schedule, such as if you return to your office after working from home, can cause increased anxiety in your dog. Try to maintain the same daily schedule.
- Exercise with your dog — A bored dog is more prone to behavior issues like anxiety. Daily mental and physical exercise will help tire out your pet and give their mind something else to focus on.
- Create a safe space — If strangers visit or a thunderstorm rolls in, your dog will appreciate having a safe space to retreat to that’s outfitted with a cozy bed and plenty of long-lasting treats.
Now that you’re more aware of anxiety symptoms in dogs, consider trying one of the methods above to try soothing your pet from their anxiety. However, if those methods don’t work and you still find your pet displaying symptoms of anxiety, contact our team to schedule a behavior consultation. We want to help your pet get the relief they need.