In recent years up to 40% of enquiries for our products has been related to the treatment of Anxiety. According to a 2020 study , 72.5% of dogs show some form of anxiety-like behavior. The most common type of dog anxiety in the study was noise phobias (present in 32% of the dogs).
Anxiety in dogs can be caused by various reasons from loud noises to being left alone for a significant amount of time. Here are some of the most common causes of dog anxiety:
Loud Noises. Noise anxiety or phobia is a common issue in dogs. The trigger can be any loud noise – fireworks, thunder, vacuum cleaners, construction workers, etc. Dogs with PTSD often exhibit noise phobia.
Environmental Changes. Changes in the environment such as thunder and lightning are common anxiety triggers for dogs. In such cases, the dog reacts to changes in static electricity or air pressure.
Separation. In dogs, Separation Anxiety (SA) is fear of being alone (away from a family member or in a kennel). Dogs with separation anxiety are destructive, vocal, and prone to house soiling. Certain dog breeds are more prone to SA.
Travel. Motion sickness is possible in dogs too. During car rides, dogs feel nauseated and consequently anxious. The anxiety is even bigger if past car rides result in a vet visit or other stressful situation.
Medical Condition. Finally, dog anxiety can be caused by an underlying medical problem like hormonal imbalances (thyroid or adrenal gland issues) or painful conditions (arthritis or dental disease). In such cases, the anxiety is secondary.
Over the last several years we have had considerable success treating anxiety with our products. That being said, it is one of the most difficult symptoms to treat. Dosage varies widely by breed, size and age with the one common thread being success is usually found in dosages on the higher end of the scale.
Our 11 year old Havanese is 18 lbs and has severe Separation Anxiety , a phobia of cars and aggression towards larger dogs. Based on his size we would normally be using the regular or extra strength. But for our Prince Drizzle the lower dosages had little to no effect . We moved up to the 2x1000 mg dosage and at 0.75 dropper or 24 mg we found incredible success.
General guidance for treatment would be to purchase the stronger 2x1000 mg blend. Start at a lower dosage and work up in 1/4 dropper increments until you see results . Indications you have reached maximum dosage would be drowsiness or slight diarrhea.
In cases of severe Separation Anxiety which results in self harming behaviour we have had success using our 30/6 Cancer product. Should you choose this route of treatment please contact us directly for dosage guidance.
As a dog owner, there are several things you can do to prevent dog anxiety. Here are some helpful tips on how to keep your dog stress-free:
Avoid Triggers. Obviously, the best thing you can do is avoid potential anxiety triggers. Sadly, this is not always possible. However, it helps if you can minimize the exposure.
Start Training. Dog training can go a long way in shaping your dog’s behavior. If training your dog is more than you can handle, you can hire a professional dog trainer.
Regular Exercise. Physical activity is vital for preventing dog anxiety. Plus, regular exercise will keep your dog in shape and prevent obesity-related health conditions.
Mental Stimulation. The dog’s mind also needs exercise to stay sharp and healthy. You can prevent anxiety by providing interactive and puzzle toys for your dog.
Socialization. Socialization can also help prevent anxiety. Enroll your puppy in a doggy daycare and make sure it meets new people and finds itself in different situations.
We hope the above article was of assistance to any of you struggling to treat anxiety.