Dog Anxiety Awareness Week: 5 tips to calm stressed-out pets

This Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, owners are being encouraged to recognise the most common signs of anxiety and how to help dogs suffering. This comes from pet insurance specialist Purely Pets, who has shared some top tips to help settle anxious four-legged friends.

What causes anxiety in dogs?

Anxiety in dogs can be bought on for a number of reasons, such as separation from owners, loud noises, new environments, or being around unfamiliar people. It can develop at any time and can unfortunately get worse as they age. Some common signs that could indicate your dog is experiencing anxiety include trembling or shaking, drooling or panting, changes in appetite, excessive whining or barking, destructive behaviour, and restlessness.

While this can be unsettling to see your furry friend in distress, there are many simple and effective ways for pet owners to help reduce their dog's anxiety.

1. Create a calm, safe space: Creating a designated area with their bed, favourite toys, and an item with your scent can offer comfort to some dogs struggling with separation anxiety. It can also help dogs feel more settled in a new environment, for example, if you’ve recently moved home.
2. Exercise and stimulation: Just as physical activity can work wonders for our mental health, it can also significantly alleviate anxiety symptoms in dogs. Daily walks and regular playtime provide the necessary mental and physical stimulation, which can in turn help with symptoms of anxiety.
3. Use distractions and keep dogs entertained: It may not always be possible to remove a fear trigger altogether, so boredom busters such as toys, treats or puzzle feeders can help distract your dog and keep them entertained. For dogs suffering with separation anxiety, leaving TV or radio on for background noise can also help.
4. Always make new things a positive experience: Make sure your dog sees new experiences as a positive, by praising them if they react well to them. It can also help to introduce new experiences slowly to build their confidence over time.
5. Contact your vet: If your dog is continuing to struggle with anxiety it’s important to seek professional help, especially if they have suddenly started showing signs or are suddenly afraid of lots of different things. Your vet may be able to provide medication or recommend products to help.