Anxiety in Dogs
Behavioral problems have become a major concern for pet parents over the past decade. Years ago dogs had working roles within the household and spent a lot of their time outside. Some dogs guarded the herds while others helped their masters hunt. Our modern lifestyles have evolved more quickly than our pets’ instincts and now some of these once desirable behaviors that we have bred into our animals are no longer so useful. Dogs need training, attention and play time to thrive. When your dog is full of energy and wants to play they are acting on their basic nature and you as their guardian need to allow times for activities with them. Certain breeds, especially those bred to herd, hunt, retrieve or otherwise work will always be high energy. This behavior turns into a problem when it becomes obsessive, destructive or dangerous.
Even the most laid back dogs become frightened by too much excitement. Often times there are specific situations that seem to set off our pets’ fears that require more help that behavior modification training alone. In the case of rescued dogs, pet parents may not know their pets’ histories or why they react to certain situations with fear, but there seem to be a list of triggers that are common stressors:
- Travel
- Guests
- Separation anxiety when their people are away
- Visits to the vet or groomer
- Thunderstorms or Fireworks
- Separation Anxiety
- Changes to home environment or routine
- New pets in the household
Regardless of what stressor sets off your dog, there are going to be times when a calming product can make life a lot easier for both of you. Before starting any new supplements, it is always a good idea to talk to your vet about any questions or concerns you may have because your vet will know your specific cat’s history.
Studies
Brief owner absence does not induce negative judgment bias in pet dogs.
Effects of L-theanine on posttraumatic stress disorder induced changes in rat brain gene expression.
