What not to do with an anxious dog?

Punishing your dog for anxiety-related behaviour can actually make the situation worse. It’s important to remember that your dog is not misbehaving on purpose. Punishing your dog can lead to an increase in anxiety, making the situation worse. While it’s important to comfort your dog when anxious, over-coddling can reinforce their anxiety. Dogs can sense your emotions, so if you’re anxious or nervous, your dog will pick up on that and become more anxious. Instead, try to stay calm and relaxed, and provide your dog with a safe and secure space. Ignoring the symptoms is also a mistake, as not all dogs suffer from anxiety, but for those who do, it needs to be addressed quickly. Not providing enough exercise and mental stimulation can also lead to boredom, frustration, and anxiety. Not seeking professional help when your dog’s anxiety is severe or persistent is another mistake, as a veterinarian or a certified dog behaviourist can help you determine the underlying cause of your dog’s anxiety and provide you with a personalized treatment plan.

Reward your dog for calming down and absolutely avoid punishment for behaviour related to fear, phobia, or anxiety. Remember that not all dogs are calmer when crated; some dogs panic when caged and will injure themselves if forced to be confined. Puppies and dogs that get less social and environmental exposure may become habitually fearful. Exposing them to lots of new things in their socialisation period as puppies can help reduce anxiety in adulthood but new, loud or startling experiences can induce anxiety in even the most adventurous of dogs. Knowing how to spot anxiety in your dog means you can help, by removing whatever is causing the anxiety, taking your dog out of the situation or managing the stress in other ways.