Take a deep breath, relax and try these tips for managing dog stress
It may not seem like it, but a dog’s life can be pretty stressful. Not in the same way our lives are stressful – they don’t have deadlines, kids that need to get dropped off at soccer practice and a car to take in for servicing the shop. Dogs get stressed out for different reasons. These can include a change in schedule, being left at home alone for long periods of time, loud noises or new additions to the household. Your dog may not be able to take a “Mental Health Day,” but there are ways to manage dog stress.
These tips are for dogs that suffer from mild to moderate stress levels. If your dog is exhibiting extreme behaviors due to stress, you should talk to your veterinarian for the best course of action to take. This may include medication or advanced training techniques.
When dogs are stressed out, you’ll know. They hide and cower, and bark and whine. When you’re not there to soothe them, they will destroy household items and favorite shoes, scratch at the walls and doors, or leave puddles of pee as a message to you. Here are a few ways to manage dog stress and make your dog more comfortable.
How do you manage dog stress? Share your tips and tricks in the comment section below.
