5 Ways to Reduce Stress in Dogs

Behavior problems such as destruction, barking, and aggression can all be linked to stress in dogs. In addition, too much stress can lead to health problems. Here, signs of stress in dogs will be discussed as well as ways to reduce stress in your pet.

Signs of Stress in Dogs

The most common signs of stress in dogs include:

• Barking
• Whining
• Panting
• Dilated pupils
• Urination indoors
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Shedding
• Drooling
• Yawning
• Excessive licking
• Shaking
• Pacing
• Hiding
• Tucked Tail
• Aggression

Tips for Stress Reduction

If your dog is showing the above-mentioned signs of stress you should work to minimize your dog’s anxiety. The following are tips for reducing stress in dogs:

Give Your Dog Plenty of Exercise

Oftentimes stress in dogs can be linked with boredom and lack of physical activity. Most dogs require a minimum of 60 minutes of daily exercise. One way to ensure your dog is receiving enough activity is to utilize the Actijoy Health & Activity Tracker, which alerts pet owners to how much activity their dog has logged for the day. 

Pet Your Dog

Dogs that do not receive enough physical attention can become stressed. Give your dog the love that he or she craves by spending time together each day. Studies show that simply petting your dog for five minutes can lower the blood pressure of both you and your pet. 

Create a Safe Zone

Sometimes a dog’s environment can create undue stress and fear. If your dog is surrounded by young children or a chaotic environment, make sure he or she has a safe place to retreat. Examples include a quiet room, a comfortable crate, or a dog bed. When your pet is in this area make sure everyone in the household knows to leave your dog alone. More information for handling a fearful dog can be found here

Provide a Balanced Diet

Stress can be caused by an imbalance of healthy bacteria in a dog’s gut. Feed your pet a balanced diet that is specific to your dog’s needs and avoid unnecessary nutrients, such as fatty table scraps.

Utilize Herbal Remedies

There are many herbal remedies available that can ease a dog’s stress and anxiety. These include CBD oil, chamomile, St. John’s Wort, and Valerian. More information on herbal remedies and pets can be found here. 

Ultimately, when signs of stress are frequently observed in dogs, steps should be taken to reduce the pet’s anxiety. By following these tips you can have a happier, healthier pet!