How to Relieve Dog Anxiety
Anxiety in a dog can be difficult for both the dog and the owner. The dog often shows his or her anxiety by excessive barking, chewing and destruction. There are many causes for anxiety in dogs such as moving into a new home, a new baby or pet, a loud noise or any other change in it's life. There are ways that you can help your dog.
How to Relieve Dog Anxiety
- Stay calm. This is the most important thing that you can do. If you become anxious, your dog will pick up on that and can become worse.
- Take your dog for long walks. Exercise is one of the best ways for your dog to release anxiety. It's also a good idea to set up a time each day for the two of you to go out in the yard for some active play together.
- When you leave the house, do so quickly without making a fuss. If you feel bad leaving the dog or you delay walking out the door with long goodbyes and reassurances it will increase the anxiety your dog feels.
- When you or anyone comes into the house, ignore your dog until it is calm. Do not pet the dog while it's jumping up and licking you. Wait until the dog calms down and then pet him and talk to him. This teaches the dog that being calm is what you want and what will get him the attention that he wants.
- Do not punish the dog for anxious behavior. Punishing does not work and can increase the anxious behaviors.