Anxiety in dogs is something we see on a daily bases, this is due to a number of factors.

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Dogs can become anxious for a number of reasons from:-

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Their History

Feeling of being out of control

Not familiar with their environment 

Expectations not clear to them 

A learnt behaviour 

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      People who don’t understand dog anxiety or behaviour can be dismissive and unkind, not to mention make it difficult for you to navigate the world with your dog by not respecting personal space.

 

      Anxiety in dogs varies dramatically from dog to dog and this is due to them being individual. The severity of anxiety varies from mild to extreme, and this is where dog psychology comes in.

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Signs of anxiety include

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• Excessive barking and howling

• Excessive whining

• Aggression

• Panting or drooling excessively

• Digging or scratching repetitively

• Depression

• Excessive Licking

• Pacing or Restlessness

• Compulsive behaviours like unusual licking or chewing

• Urinating or defecating in the house

• Trembling or body shake

• Side glancing

• Refusing of treats / food

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Every dog is individual and will respond and react differently

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      The majority of dogs who lunge at, bark at and fight with other dogs and humans aren’t doing so because they’re “dominant” or because they want to be “pack leader.” They’re doing it because they’re scared.

 

      Dogs communicate through body language and the better a owner/animal care provider understands what they are saying, the easier it can be to avoid stressful situations.

 

      When working with an anxious dog we allow them time to get used to the environment and what is expected of them. Over time a relationship between us and the dog is created this is when we start to observe their behaviour and ways in which we can work with them.

 

      While anxious dogs are seen as out of control and extremely reactive – using a fresh face and getting to know them as an individual, can sometimes get the dogs to stop the behaviour.

 

      This is the same for dogs that require training or those that make walking them a challenge.

 

      We follow a unique skill system also known as SUPPORT, within our group walks with the dogs. Throughout caring for a dog, we communicate in person with owners and we are willing to provide feedback about your dogs on request so that you know what your pet has been up too. 

 

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