Anxiety is prevalent in humans, but it’s also a condition that is common for dogs. Whether it’s the result of a hard life, being confined in a shelter, or simply loving humans so much they never want to be left alone, anxiety can hit your furry friend hard. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to help soothe your pup when he or she is feeling anxious.

While dog anxiety medications may be necessary in severe cases, most pet owners can ease mild to moderate dog anxiety with other treatment options. Learn how to calm an anxious dog right here with tips that can help soothe anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety in Dogs

Anxiety can manifest itself in multiple ways, from whining and barking to shivering and whimpering. You may also find that your dog becomes destructive or hostile when anxious. Over time, they may lose their appetite and become completely withdrawn if the anxiety is not addressed.

The most common reasons for anxiety in a dog is abandonment, fear of being home alone, loud noises, traveling, and/or being around strangers, children, or other pets. 

The best way to treat your canine companion is to determine the cause. Anxiety is usually evident and easily identified. Once you pinpoint the reason, you can go about treatment management.

1. Exercise

One of the most beneficial forms of natural anxiety relief is exercise. Dogs and humans alike can enjoy the benefits of exercise. There are endorphins that are released during an activity that can boost mood and help stabilize and balance hormones. It is very helpful for nervous dogs to get exercise as often as possible. 

Because anxiety can cause an excess of energy, taking your dog out to play ball or on a long walk before you leave can be helpful. 

2. Comfort Your Pup

All dogs love and crave affection. For them, there’s nothing quite like that moment when you walk through the door at the end of the day. Anxiousness immediately starts to dissipate, and your dog starts to anticipate those loving scratches and cuddles from you.

There is probably nothing more soothing to an anxious dog than its owner’s touch. Try to identify the signs of anxiety in your dog and nip them in the bud as early as possible by picking them up, cuddling up on the couch on a cozy blanket, or giving them a good long petting session.

3. Massage

As you probably know, a massage will relax and calm even the most anxious human — did you know it also works wonders with dogs as well?! Anxiety often causes tensing of the muscles and massage therapy is one way to alleviate tension. 

This method is particularly useful for dogs who get anxiety from loud noises or new experiences. If a thunderstorm is approaching, cuddle up on the couch with your pup. Gently massage his muscles and scratch his favorite spots. Not only does it feel good for the pup, it also serves as a distraction from the anxiety trigger.

4. Natural Remedies

A natural remedy to calming a nervous dog is CBD. CBD has been gaining in popularity in recent years for helping humans with many health problems. These fantastic benefits also apply to dogs. Dogs that have anxiety and nervousness can benefit from CBD as a natural remedy. CBD has zero side effects for pet parents to worry about. This is excellent for pet parents that stress out about giving their dogs something with side effects or with added chemicals.

Another natural remedy for combatting anxiety is through the use of pet-friendly essential oils. Lavender and Chamomile oils are both safe for your fur babies and proven to be great for calming an anxious dog. You can use the essential oils in a diffuser or as a mist that can be sprayed on your pup’s favorite cozy bed or blanket. 

For more resources like this one, visit our blog.