Is your dog not acting like himself? Does he respond aggressively to loud noises or other harmless stimuli? Learning the common signs of anxiety in dogs is the first step to getting your pet the help it needs.
When you need a veterinarian in Mandeville, LA, Dr. Ashley Geoghegan at VetNaturally is ready to assist. She has years of experience treating animals for antisocial behaviors like anxiety. Consider her expert advice the next time you notice your dog acting strange.
Symptoms of Dog Anxiety
Canines are incredibly social creatures. Like humans, they can experience bouts of anxiety, disappointment, and grief. These emotions can significantly impact how they respond to their owners and the world around them.
Three of the most common anxieties dogs can experience include:
- Fear: Animals can learn to fear loud noises, strangers, different environments, or other dogs. Sometimes this dread can originate from past abuse or injuries. However, any dog can experience fear-anxiety under the wrong circumstances.
- Separation: Canines can feel separation anxiety when their companions leave them. In some cases, these problems can leave them unable to relax at home alone. Separation anxiety affects one in every four to six dogs.
- Aging: As dogs age, they lose some of their cognitive functions. Sometimes, aging can cause blindness, joint and muscle pain, or loss of appetite. These physical symptoms can result in anxiety that is challenging to treat without professional help.
Below are three symptoms that may indicate your dog is experiencing anxiety:
Uncontrollable Urination or Defecation
Incontinence is one of the common signs of anxiety in dogs. These problems can occur suddenly and become difficult for pet parents to manage. If your canine is already house-trained, consider seeking a diagnosis for its anxiety or another underlying medical condition.
It’s important not to scold or punish your dog during these incidents. Such behaviors could stress your pet out more and lead to further messes. Speak to a veterinarian to see if you can reduce the frequency of these episodes with dietary changes, Chinese herbs, acupuncture or, if needed, western medications.
Destructive Behaviors
When your animal is anxious, it may engage in destructive behavior. Chewing furniture, clothing, and carpet are some of the most common manifestations of this problem. Dogs have the capacity to become violent when exposed to stressful stimuli.
This symptom can be dangerous for young children or other pets in the home. Try to seek help for your dog immediately if you notice these issues.
In the meantime, spend more time doing outdoor activities with your pet. This method allows dogs to get out most of their energy so that they can relax at home.
Check your dog’s calorie intake as well. Deficiencies may encourage them to chew and swallow harmful things around the house.
Depressive Episodes
On the opposite end of the spectrum, a dog that experiences depression may recluse itself or display low energy. You may notice that your dog is less interested in toys or spending time with you. Depression can come and go in canines, but long-term depressive anxiety can be detrimental to their health.
Depression can lead to a loss of appetite. A dog that does not eat is at higher risk for developing organ disorders and injuries. Additionally, this problem can contribute to longer episodes of antisocial behavior.
At VetNaturally, we have several natural tools to remedy these depressive episodes. Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, aromatherapy, medical massage (Tui-na) and a gentle touch and understanding are just a few of the things that our hospital can offer you and your pets.
Seek Help From a Licensed Veterinarian
Your dog deserves the highest quality care in the region. At VetNaturally, Dr. Geoghegan has everything she needs to ensure your pet gets modern and effective treatments. You can be confident in the results, knowing she has helped hundreds of animals recover from psychological and physical ailments.
Visit our clinic to learn the difference between holistic and conventional veterinary care. We provide a calm space for your dog to receive treatment. Dr. Geoghegan will take the time to examine your pet’s condition and determine a personalized treatment plan.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Geoghegan at VetNaturally in Mandeville, LA. Learn more about the signs of anxiety in dogs at 985-718-9991.
