Last Updated on June 19, 2023 by Georgie Smith
Dogs, more than cats, typically suffer from anxiety the most. Whether it be loud music, loud vehicles, or thunder and lightning, dogs and fear go hand-in-hand. If you or someone you love suffers from anxiety, then you understand how difficult it is to get through a situation out of your control.
What you may not know is that dogs can also suffer from anxiety. That leaves pet owners struggling with finding the best strategies and comfort products for dogs with anxiety. Anxiety does not affect only small dogs, all breeds are vulnerable, and it sometimes causes major behavioral problems.
The good news is some strategies and products aid in relief when your dog becomes overwhelmed due to anxiety. The purpose of this article is to bring to the forefront the reasons dogs may suffer from anxiety and what you, as their master can do to help.
Before we get to some successful products, let’s talk about anxiety and what it does.
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Pawlife Calming Treats
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NaturVet Calming Treats
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Pet Club Brothers
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What Causes Dog Anxiety?
There are several causes of dog anxiety. The most common are:
- Separation
- Fear
- Aging
Anxiety and fear-related problems can happen due to visual stimuli, strange animals or people, and loud noises are the most common. There are other related situations such as car rides, vet visits, unfamiliar environments even walking on certain surfaces can flare up their fear.
Fears such as these may appear insignificant to us, but to a dog, it can create much anxiety. Separation anxiety affects an estimated 14 percent of dogs. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety find no comfort when away from their family or left alone.
This type of anxiety typically manifests itself in behaviors that are undesirable. These behaviors can be defecating and urinating in the house, barking, and destroying furnishings. Dogs that have issues with age-related anxiety often associate with CDS-Cognitive-Dysfunction Syndrome.
Dogs that suffer from CDS suffer from a decline in awareness, perception, learning, and memory. These resemble the same stages of Alzheimer’s in humans. In senior dogs, that understandably can lead to anxiety. [1]
Before we go further into anxiety in dogs and what you can do, let’s look at the leading products you can buy to aid in keeping your dog calm. These are:
NaturVet Calming Treats for Dogs – Natural Vegan Dog Food Supplement for Stress Relief & Anxiety Aid
First on the list is the natural supplement made by KarmaPets. The KarmaPet chews are healthy because they are from natural ingredients to help soothe your dog in stressful moments. If you are finding yourself continually throwing money away on products that may or may not work, this is where you need to start.
The natural chew with help you get your happy dog back. Just think, no more growling, whimpering or unpleasant actions in the house. Many anxiety products only mask bad feelings by making your little canine feel drowsy. That is undoubtedly not how you want your dog to be.
This product keeps your dog happy and alert, which in turn, will keep you both happy. The product is 100 percent vegan-friendly and has 105 treats per jar. The combination of healthy ingredients includes Passion Flower, Chamomile Extract, and organic hemp oil.
Pawlife Calming Treats for Dogs – Hemp Oil Infused Soft Chews for Dog Anxiety Support
Second, on the list is Pawlifes Calming Treats for Dogs. This unique soft chew for dogs has a formula that aids as an all-natural calming solution to help conquer symptoms of stress due to separation anxiety, weather, loud noises, or large gatherings.
The winning combination of the following help with calming your dog, and these are:
- Organic Ginger
- I-tryptophan
- Valerian Root
- Organic Passion Flower
- Organic Chamomile
Together these ingredients will soothe your dog naturally helping him feel relaxed and safe. Thanks to the trick of flavoring the chew like a treat, administering the calming aid will be a simple task. Pawlife is so sure of its products; they offer a 100 percent money-back guarantee that your dog will gobble it right up.
Pet Club Brothers Full Spectrum Hemp Oil for Dogs and Cats
Third on the list is Full Spectrum Hemp Oil for Dogs and Cats by Pet Club. This product is made in the USA ensuring what you buy is a safe product you can trust. To help soothe your dog’s anxiety and bring back their spunky side, as well as run and play again you cannot go wrong with this product.
The Hemp Oil from Pet Club can do all that while helping combat swelling, stiffness, and pain as well. The hemp oil for dog and cat manufacturing is from certified hemp straight from the state of Colorado.
They take pride in that comes safeguarded by the highest manufacturing standards around the globe. The pet hemp oil product contents are as follows:
Highest grade and No:
- Herbicides
- GMO
- Chemical Fertilizers
- Pesticides
When you purchase this product, you can ensure you are getting a high-quality product or your money back, a 100 percent guarantee.
NutraVet Pure Organic Hemp Oil Extract (with 500 mg) for Dogs and Cats
Next on the list is NutraVet Pure Organic Hemp Oil Extract. Everyone knows that Hemp Extract is not new to modern medicine. In today’s world of medicine, more and more industries are relying on the benefits of Hemp Extract for dogs and cats.
NutraVet was one of the first companies to start formulating and marketing an effective dose of Hemp Extract oil. What is the result? A high-quality liquid form of Hemp oil that helps dogs and cats with anxiety through the best absorption and relief possible.
This particular formulation is 500 mg and almost 17 mg with every dosage. That offers benefits such as better sleep, pain, relief, mood enhancement, and better overall mobility. The NutraVet Hemp 500 drops provide the ultimate absorbing power to give your dog the best chance at functioning and combating anxiety.
Zesty Paws Calming Soft Chews for Dogs – Anxiety Composure Aid
Zesty Paws Calming Soft Chew for Dogs is a best seller on the list. The reasons for that is evident once you read the details. If you are looking for an all-natural solution for your dog’s anxiety, look no further. The Zesty Paws bites are unique because they come turkey flavored, not just the bland flavor of a treat.
These chews have a formula of organic and natural ingredients to help dogs of all sizes relax, feel calm, and comfortable under any circumstance. Whether it be anxious behavior, nervousness, or an aggressive temperament concern, your search is over.
Whether you need them for home environment issues or anxiety while traveling, Zesty Paws product is the answer. The ingredients of a pure form of L-Theanine, Suntheanine, assist with stimulating brain waves that promote relation without a drowsy effect.
The product is wheat free and contains the following:
- Organic Ginger Root
- L-Tryptophan
- Organic Passion Flower
- Valerian Root
- Organic Hemp Powder
- Organic Hemp Oil
Each one of these ingredients together gives your dog back her life and keeps Anxiety issues at bay. You will also see a reduction in chewing problems and paw licking.
There is nothing harder for a dog owner than to watch their canine companion struggle with none stop stress and anxiety problems. The Painful symptoms from both challenges the life and well-being of both the pet and the owner.
CozyFur Patent Pending Canine Anti-Anxiety Vest
The only vest on the list is a bestseller for many reasons. Introducing the CozyFur Patent Pending Canine Anti-Anxiety Vest. This product comes with so much more than just a safety vest. It has a 1X jacket for anxiety with 1X Music Player for a more calming effect, with batteries included and even two bonus sets.
Along with extra batteries, there are 2X Lavender Essential Oil Crystals that last between three to 12 months. The idea of CozyFur is an anti-anxiety shirt is for both cats and dogs. When holidays roll around, and fireworks are active, this is a nightmare for dogs with anxiety.
With the CozyFur Anti-Anxiety vests, you can help your dog when loud noises and bright lights from chaotic situations cause her anxiety to flare. Many dogs are afraid of thunder and bad weather. The Easy Wrap System is quick to put on and simple to adjust for the right amount of pressure your dog needs for comfort.
Voted by veterinarians as the most effective solution for anxiety, the CozyFur is a best seller for these reasons and many more. Take advantage of modern science and the features of not just the vest, but the music player for calming sounds and the Lavender Oil Crystals for the relation.
Those are the leading products on the market for aiding you and your dog with anxiety disorders. Now, let’s read more about the topic.
What is the Cause of Separation Anxiety in Dogs?
While that answer may never be clear, or why it is often more prone to some dogs than others, there is more attention on the topic in the medical world. There is circumstantial evidence that suggests that sheltered dogs and those that suffered the loss of a human they were close in the past, suffer the most. [2]
The breeds that are more people-oriented also tend to be more prone to separation anxiety. Life changes that cause this type of anxiety include:
- Family Member Leaving for College
- Death in the Family
- Move to a New Home
- Divorce
- The Sudden Absence of a Vital Family Member
- Change in a Schedule
How Can I Help My Dog?
Neither your dog or you want this misery to continue. It is hard to see your beloved canine under so much stress. It is also just as hard to live with the destruction and mayhem that anxiety causes on a home. While there is no magic bullet, there are things that do help.
Conditioning:
There are situations where you can teach your dog that separations come with rewards. Presently, she is conditioned to go right into stress mode when she knows you are leaving. Try tactics that counter this reaction such as leaving special treats such as a stuffed toy and peanut butter, a bone, or something she loves.
You can also try leaving her small treats around the house for her to discover. Be sure to ensure her toys, blanket, bed, and anything else she likes are close at hand. If you have a puppy, start conditioning her early by leaving for short periods and gradually lengthen the time you are gone.
Some dogs feel more comfortable and safe in their crate when home alone. Watch her behavior while in the container to see if she settles down or if signs of anxiety appear.
Exercise:
Be sure she gets plenty of exercises and outdoor play, including mental and physical. A contended, tired dog who has been on a brisk walk and a little playtime with you is more than likely ready to settle down when you leave.
Medication:
There are times when no amount of conditioning and training will help a dog, especially elderly ones. Many vets will recommend prescription medications. Amitriptyline used to treat depression or alprazolam for anxiety and panic disorders are the most popular meds vets will prescribe.
Herbal and Homeopathic Treatments:
The other options are homeopathic treatments and natural supplements such as the ones listed above. The most popular natural supplements that assist with easing anxiety in dogs include the following:
- Chamomile
- John’s Wort
- Valerian
- Amino Acid L-Theanine
- Passion Flower
The primary function of these is to alter the neurotransmitters in the brain. These include GABA, Dopamine, and Serotonin, which all induce a sense of calmness and peace.
In cases that are moderate to severe, you may have to try a combination of behavioral therapy and medications. It can be a complicated ordeal, so you may consider working with a CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist) or a Veterinary Behaviorist.
Anxiety is not always preventable, despite your greatest efforts. However, with care and patience, you could very well reduce your and your dog’s suffering and the destructive behaviors taking place.
How Do I Know If My Dog Has Anxiety?
Dogs that experience anxiety issues display their behaviors in different ways. There are some symptoms, such as shaking and panting that is subtle and can easily be missed or mistaken. The reason why is because the traits are normal in general circumstances.
Then, there are more noticeable symptoms such as excessive barking and aggression that are not typical behaviors of the dog in calm environments. Dog owners may mistake the symptoms of their dog acting out due to other behavior problems or boredom.
However, if the symptoms occur in everyday situations, such as thunderstorms or when the owner leaves home, there may be underlying problems. It is during these types of scenarios that your dog is reacting to stressful or anxious feelings beyond his control.
Mild Symptoms of Anxiety
Some of the mild and less apparent symptoms of anxiety begin as a slight behavior change. These symptoms typically go unnoticed by dog owners because they are not usually disruptive. Some of these are:
Hiding or Solitude:
Some dogs choose to be alone when they are having anxiety issues. He may move away from other pets or people or hide out of fear.
Seeks Comfort:
Other dogs that become anxious have the opposite reaction and will seek affection or more attention. They tend to jump in the owner’s lap or require more attention.
Shaking and Panting:
Dogs that pant or shake or generally act nervous may be experiencing true anxiety. Panting after exercise is normal but panting during a thunderstorm or firework display is not.
Excessive Licking or chewing:
Dogs that are anxious may lick or chew at their fur compulsively.
Obvious Symptoms of Anxiety
There are more apparent symptoms of anxiety that are hard to miss. Depending on the reason for the anxiety, the behaviors may only appear when triggered by their phobia.
Excessive Howling and Barking:
One of the first and most apparent signs of anxiety is excessive noise. If your dog starts barking because of loud noises or interruptions and you cannot calm her after the noise stops, she could be feeling anxious.
Aggression:
Dogs that are feeling anxious may show signs of aggression suddenly, even toward their owner. Anxious dogs may growl, snap, or become aggressive during stressful situations when you cannot calm them down quickly.
Try to Escape:
Dogs that feel enclosed or trapped may begin running or digging. Confining dogs in crates while he is having anxiety issues may worsen his behavior.
Excessive Energy:
An anxious dog often displays a sudden surge of energy and becomes hyperactive.
Excretion:
Dogs that are house-trained may suddenly begin defecating indoors while under duress.
Destruction:
One common and first-appearing symptom of anxiety is the destruction of furniture and other objects. They typically choose objects that they would typically not shred or chew.
FAQs:
Q: When is the best time to show my dog affection?
A: Any time he is acting calm and submissive
Q: Why does my dog snap at me while is eating?
A: This is your dog’s way of communicating with you and asking you to please leave him alone while he eats.
Q: How can I stop my dog from barking at everything while on a walk?
A: When you first notice your dog perk up, you know he is about to bark. It is then that you need to make corrections and order him to remain quiet. It will take some training but staying persistent is the key.
Conclusion
Dogs experiencing any of these symptoms may begin to have panic attacks. These attacks can last anywhere from a few minutes to hours and can involve any combination of the above symptoms.
Symptoms of anxiety, such as destruction of furniture, objects or high energy can sometimes result in self-injury. The physical and mental stress that a dog can endure while suffering from anxiety is taxing and will gradually affect his health. These symptoms should not go untreated.
Trying any of the above products is a step in the right direction. However, the most critical step you can take is talking with your dog’s vet for proper care for both your dog’s sake as well as the entire family.
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