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What are the Signs of Anxiety in Dogs?

For dog lovers, their furry buddies are not pets, but they are part of their family. Anything that affects their health or well-being troubles their owners to no end. One of the least recognised but serious health issues amongst dogs is anxiety. Not only does it make dogs irritable, unpredictable, and aggressive, but it also triggers several other associated disorders such as food and sleep disorders. Another major issue is that as dog owners in Australia being unable to recognise anxiety in dogs, they are not able to seek treatment for their dogs.

What are Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs?

Here are some major causes of anxieties in dogs:

• Separation: This is one of the most common and severe forms of anxiety. As the two share a close relation to one another, the entire routine of dogs revolves around their owners. This can enhance the fear of separation from their owners, hence triggering severe anxiety in dogs. Puppy separation anxiety and senior dogs’ separation anxiety is considered even more acute than younger dogs’ separation anxiety.

• Loud noises: Whether it be storms, thunder & lightning, or firecrackers, dogs do not enjoy loud noises. This can also be an anxiety trigger for dogs.

• Change environment: This anxiety is caused when you move houses or take the dog in a car for long-distance travelling. It breaks your dog’s routine, as it moves them away from the known environment, which in turn can trigger anxiety.

• Possessions missing: Every dog has its prized possessions. Any fear of their prized toy, bed etc being taken away can trigger anxiety.

How do you know if your dog has anxiety?

Barking: One of the most common signs of anxiety in dogs is barking even when the owner is not present. This is a dog’s method of communicating the disturbance in its psyche.

Reduced Appetite: If your pet eats less than their normal portions of food, then this is a tell-tale sign of anxiety. This is especially so if even their favourite foods do not capture their interest.

Pacing: If you notice your dog pacing up and down without any reason, this is another sign that your dog is experiencing anxiety.

Aggressive behaviour: Dogs facing anxiety show aggressive behaviour in their dealings with humans and their environment.

Self-harm: Another indication of dog anxiety is when they deliberately try to hurt themselves with their teeth and paws.

Digging: If a dog is digging a hole in the ground, as if trying to dig a hiding place to crawl & hide into, then a possible reason could be the anxiety that your dog is experiencing.

Withdrawal: Dogs suffering from any form of anxiety are not sociable and hence, withdraw into a corner in a room or courtyard. They show disinterest in eating, strolling, or playing with anyone, including their owner.

Settling inability: Another sign of dog anxiety is that they are restless and unable to settle in or sit comfortably in a single posture for long.

If your dog shows any signs of anxiety, try to find and remove the source of anxiety. If you are unsure, you could also consider taking your dog to a vet for medication.

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