We all know that people deal with a lot of worry. Balancing a job with a social life, paying bills and trying to get enough exercise can be stressful. But did you know that dogs can get anxious, too?
If Fido is barking or howling more than usual, licking or biting himself or tucking his tail, it might be a sign of canine anxiety.
Some potential causes: sickness and pain, aging, negative experiences and having been abandoned (let’s let out a collective 🙁 for that last one).
So how can you help your dog overcome anxiety? Try practicing separation so your dog gets used to you being away. Also, be sure to stay calm. Your dog responds to the cues he gets from you.
Something else that can help both you and your pet: exercise. Regular walks will have you both feeling better.
If nothing else works, it might be time to talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication. If the anxiety is caused by a hormonal imbalance, medication is the best fix.
For even more dog facts, take a gander at our infographic that shows the evolution of the dog.