Dog Relaxation Tips: How to calm your dog
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Dog Relaxation Tips: How to calm your dog
Anyone who’s ever owned a dog knows that they are highly emotional creatures. They have a similar emotional intelligence to humans, and once you get to know your dog, you can pick up on their subtle cues to know when they’re happy, scared, excited, or fearful. But unfortunately, dogs can’t tell us just what they need when they feel anxious or nervous.
If your dog is feeling anxious, there are several ways to calm them down and help them feel more confident. These methods can come in handy when meeting new people, going to the vet, or introducing a new animal into the family.
Learn their language.
Dogs can’t tell us “I feel scared” or “I don’t want to be here.” Instead, they pant, whine, shake, or pace to express their discontent. So pay close attention to your dog’s body language so they can learn to trust you and come to you for comfort.
Remain calm.
If your dog is expressing anxiety, do your best to remain calm and cool-headed so they can feel reassured. While some of these behaviors may irritate you (such as when they’re whining inconsolably during a car ride), remember to show empathy and tend to their needs the best you can to build a relationship of trust. You will only add to their distress if you become impatient or anxious.
Show affection.
Nothing calms a dog more than the comfort of its loving owner. If they are reasonably calm, try petting them or allowing them in your lap to alleviate their anxiety. Lap time can work well for small dogs such as Yorkies or Chihuahuas that often shake when they are afraid. Holding them close will calm their nervous system and help them feel secure.
Provide exercise or a distraction.
Sometimes dogs become anxious if they are bored or understimulated. For example, they may come to you whining or acting out to initiate play. If your dog does this, take them out for a quick run or give them a toy to play with so they can distract themselves.
Use calming remedies.
Some situations that cause anxiety to dogs are unavoidable, such as vet visits or Fourth of July fireworks. If traditional methods for calming your dog won’t work in high-stress environments, try chamomile, a calming jacket, or CBD treats to help temporarily calm your dog.
These five methods can help you build a trusting relationship with your dog and enable them to better socialize in highly stimulating environments. Do you have some tips of your own? Share them with us on our Facebook page.
