By Steve Dale
Like humans, dogs can experience fear, anxiety and stress. Different situations can trigger these feelings; symptoms tend to present themselves differently; and some calming methods work better for others.
Signs & Symptoms
Some signs of anxiety in your dog may appear in ways you wouldn’t predict. Symptoms include lip licking, yawning, decreased appetite, increased salivation, drooling, panting or excessive grooming. Pacing, trembling, shaking and hyper vigilance are also common signs of anxiety in dogs.
Keeping Calm
It’s important to pay attention to when your dog shows signs of anxiety – is it before or during a thunderstorm? Is it when your dog is being approached by children or other dogs? Once you’ve determined the cause, there are things you can introduce to keep them calm, like pheromone therapy or a thunder shirt. According to a recent study, the sounds of reggae music can be calming to dogs. Of course, playing with your pup in a relaxed setting will also help. Don’t forget the Artisan Inspired biscuits to put them even more at ease!
Remember to always contact your veterinarian or a certified behavior consultant if your pet’s anxiety symptoms don’t subside.
