Around 18% of people struggle with anxiety, but did you know that there is a higher percentage of dogs that are fighting the same battle? Veterinarians across the U.S. find that 60% of canines owners aren’t aware their fur babies are suffering, and those that do aren’t sure how to help. However, new evidence shows that anti anxiety food for dogs could help them achieve a happier and healthier life.
How to Tell if Your Dog Suffering From Anxiety
Just like with people, anxiety in dogs can show up in different ways, many of which are caused by the same elements and events as for human sufferers. The problem is that many of the anxiety symptoms have often been passed off as “normal” dog behaviors. Therefore, it is not very easy to notice if you aren’t explicitly looking for them. Here are a few of the key elements to look for when trying to identify if your furry friend has anxiety.
- Loud howling or barking when you are in the other room or have to step out for a moment.
- Shaking or shivering even when they are not cold.
- Acting extremely shy, cowering or running away from people and other animals.
- Panting and walking back and forth restlessly.
- Digging holes around the yard or under the fence and trying to escape the yard.
- Needing to use the bathroom more frequently.
- Chewing and ripping up furniture or other items when past the chewing puppy stages.
- Refusing to eat or drink.
- Self-harming by way of over licking or biting themselves.
If your pet is exhibiting any of these common symptoms, they may be suffering from anxiety.
Causes of Canine Anxiety
You may think that because they are animals, then they have nothing to worry about that could cause these anxious behaviors. But in truth, animals, especially dogs, can feel and overthink like people do, it is just in a slightly different way. Three main things could cause your family friend to spiral into a fit of worry.
Changes To Their Routine– Although it is not the most common cause, your pet may contract anxiety when experiencing a shift in their day to day life. This could be moving homes or a switch in your work schedule.
Loud Noise- Did you ever wonder why your dog would run and hide during a thunderstorm or fireworks? It could be triggering their fearful anxieties.
Separation– The most common type found in dogs stems from their pack nature. Younger dogs are especially prone as most dogs start associating their values with the people around them at a very young age.
How to Help
Since 1 in 3 dogs could be suffering from anxiety, they must receive the care they need. There are a few ways that you can help to ease their stresses and allow them to keep calm. If they suffer from separation-induced anxiety, try leaving the television on whenever you leave as human voices are sometimes enough to soothe them. You could also try getting them a furry friend to keep them company while you are out and about.
Another way that has been proven to improve anxiety in dogs majorly is exercise and diet. The right balance of nutrients can go a long way in keeping their tail wagging. Unfortunately, not all food brands contain the best ingredients for your pup. If you find that there are holes in your pet’s diet, you can always add supplements to fill in the blanks. Pawtree and other companies have some amazing options available to help ease anxiety, boost energy, and give your pet a well-rounded plate.