Calming dogs with separation anxiety, or dogs having anxiety attacks during a thunderstorm, or during a fireworks display, can often be challenging. However, perhaps one of the most tender moments between man and canine is when your pup shows some signs of nervousness and seeks you out for some calming relief.
Calming Dogs Top 10 Tips. Dogs feel anxiety just as we do, and in their way, they find methods to cope. I’ve seen a Maltese Yorkie mix using my leg as a scratch post till I pick her up and cradle her for a little while, and I’ve seen other signs from other doggies that they need a little extra tender, love, and care while feeling uneasy. What are some of the ways your doggy responds to stress? Have you found a particular way to soothe your pup? Here are some of the techniques for calming dogs we love to use with our furry friends on the days when they’re feeling out of sorts.
Calming Dogs with daily exercise
Dogs, like humans, are creatures of habit. Although some of us declare ourselves free-spirited and spontaneous, we also need our structured routine to maintain a healthy mindset and overall well-being. Your doggy requires an uninterrupted routine tailored to his breed, age, and activity level. If a routine is suddenly altered, your dog will feel the interruption and begin to exhibit signs of anxiety or aggression. Sometimes the best remedy for calming dogs is outdoor recreation and an opportunity to stretch his legs! Remember, a happy pup is a worn-out pup!
Crate train to calm down your dog
Believe it or not, your doggy’s crate is a point of comfort for him, and often it’s where he feels the safest. Create a comfortable environment in the crate, and watch as your dog retreats to his own personal den for some recharging and relief.
How to calm down a dog with Music
Depending on a few factors, doggy hearing can be better than ours, so of course, Music made it onto the list. Since we’re not sure if your pup’s a Sinatra fan or more of a Marley kind of pooch, we’re going to suggest classical music. Soothing notes from an instrumental piece can provide your doggy with a relaxing experience while you’re occupied working from home or while you’re out running quick errands. As with all techniques, try it and see how your dog responds!
Calming dogs with a message
We love watching our furry friends enjoying a head scratch session; their eyes close, and they lean into the sweet sensations of a head massage. That is not only an excellent opportunity to address some natural pressure points, but will also be highly effective in calming your doggy’s anxiety level as the body works hand in hand with the mind. Once the body feels relaxed, the mind and emotional wellbeing will surely follow.
Grooming that calms down your dog
Grooming is just a massage that leaves your dog looking more adorable, right? During your regular brush sessions, you’ll find that you and your canine companion have bonded and that your nervous pooch is in a more relaxed state. This is also a covert way of checking for any wounds, lesions, or abrasions to your dog’s coat and catch an infection in its early stages. Win-win!
Doggy TV for calming down dogs
Yes, it exists! Have you noticed that your dog responds to dogs on the TV screen almost as if they’re present in the room? This moment alone can soothe your fur baby. Some content has been produced specifically with dogs in mind, which means that with a little bit of research, you can find an audio-visual way to keep your dog’s mind occupied and his attention captivated for a while.
Dogya for calming dogs
It was only a matter of time before Yoga’s immense popularity seeped into the canine universe! Pet owners worldwide have decided to welcome their doggies to the mat for some downward dog time. Don’t be too surprised though, your dog already knows certain poses and may even be able to do them better than you!
Treats, toys, and towels for calming dogs
Gifting your pup with a comfy blanket or treat specially made for anxious times will help your pup come out of his apprehensive funk. Combine treats with toys to allow your doggy some time for mental stimulation. Your dog will be intensely focused on retrieving the treat from the puzzle toy and will be a happier pup when he’s finished.
Attitude for calming dogs
Dogs function on an energetic level, just as humans do. This means that they pick up on our energetic body and how we may be feeling emotionally. They can even begin to emulate our example and match our moods. That’s why it’s vital to be mindful of your attitude, tone, body language and how you process and express emotion. Attitude is everything when you’re training a puppy or even re-training an older doggy.
Calming dogs through desensitization
This technique may not work with all dogs, but it may help! Let’s say your dog doesn’t do well with others – whether that means humans or other dogs. This is a great opportunity for exposure and concise commands. Start by introducing a stranger or another (perhaps a smaller) dog. Then observe, guide, and train in this setting. Gradually increase exposure and time over time, and you’ll start to see some positive changes in your once scared pup. The younger desensitization begins, the better! Your pup will soon be playing with other doggies and befriending everyone from your neighbor to your POOP 911 pooper scooper service team staff!
