CHOU2 FAQ: How Do I Know if my Dog has Anxiety?

As dog owners, we are constantly thinking about what our dog needs. Our minds
swirl with how to enrich their diet, exercise routine, and physical and mental health. This is why it’s particularly difficult to see our pups experience anxiety. We try so hard to be proactive in supporting our pups, and to see them in distress weighs heavily on dog owners everywhere.

What is Dog Anxiety?

There are many different types of anxiety that our dogs can experience – from being triggered by loud or disruptive stimuli such as thunderstorms, fireworks, and other loud noises, to separation anxiety when we leave them alone, to generalized pain or fear, to age-related brain health changes. Sometimes, we aren’t even quite sure what could be causing our dog distress. Regardless of the cause, most dog owners are on a never-ending hunt to solve the puzzle. Understanding the signs of anxiety is the first step.

An anxious dog exhibits specific dog behavior tied to common symptoms of anxiety – keep reading to learn more.

Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

• Common signs of anxious behavior in dogs include:
  • excessive barking or crying
  • lip licking
  • overactive drooling
  • uncontrollable urination
  • panting
  • an overall tense demeanor in your dog’s body language
  • hiding or cowering
  • reactive or aggressive behaviors

Understanding Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can be especially tricky for both young and older dogs alike – these symptoms can manifest as destructive behavior like ripping up toilet paper or barreling through the trash, defecating on the floor, pacing, and other behavioral problems that seem to pop up a short period of time after you leave the house. While separation anxiety can have similar symptoms to general anxiety like those listed above, it can be especially challenging to figure out since you are not present to soothe your pup.

Ways to Help Your Dog

Anxiety can be looked at as a puzzle – there are many pieces that will help with positive progress, and it will rarely be a singular solution that will solve your pups problems. Stay positive and remain hopeful – your dog is so lucky to have an owner who cares so deeply about their wellbeing. Find the right tools for success, and you AND your dog will feel better.

Successful solutions include:

• Talking to your veterinarian (this is always the most important step!)
• Creating a safe space for your pup, whether it is their crate or a special area of your home
• Taking your dog to a trainer or veterinary behaviorist to work on behavioral modifications and positive reinforcement techniques
• Socializing from a young age
• Offering calming supplements like CHOU2 PHARMA / PET WELLNESS’ Chill CBD Oil

Supplements like Chill from CHOU2 PHARMA / PET WELLNESS are a great way to support your dog’s nervous system when stress runs rampant.