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When it comes to your dog, all you want is to give them the best possible life. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a millionaire to give your dog a great life. Sometimes, a few simple tweaks around the house can make your dog more calm, content, and happy. Here are some three things that might be making your dog anxious, and what you can do about it.
Separation anxiety
Dogs can be like little kids sometimes—some are completely fine being on their own for long periods of time and some find it terrifying. If you find that your dog is wetting their bed, destroying household items, or barking for prolonged periods in your absence, they may be experiencing separation anxiety. Try to make sure that your dog is getting enough exercise throughout the week. You can also try to play classical music while you’re away, as this has been shown to have a calming effect on dogs.
If you work a full-time job, consider asking your boss if you would be allowed to bring your furry friend to work during the week. If that’s not possible, ask a friend to walk them during the day. You can also hire a trusted dog-walker or pet-sitter to reduce the amount of time that your pup is alone during the day.
Loud noises
You’ve probably heard of dogs hiding under the bed during fireworks or thunderstorms. However, you may not have considered all of the other noises that could be worrisome to your dog. Take notice whenever you see your dog react to sudden sounds and try to see if it’s something in your control, such as a faulty HVAC system or other loud appliances. Dogs are very sensitive to sound, considering they have better hearing than humans.
Environmental stresses
Make sure your dog’s living environment is as ideal as possible. Do they have a place to lay down and snooze? Do they have a filled water bowl throughout the day? What about an adequate space to play? There are a few basic things that dogs need in order to be happy and healthy. Make sure to give your pup toys and proper care during the day. Keep in mind that this may require sacrifices on your end, such as coming home during lunch to walk them, or getting someone to check on them.
Summary
Assess your dog’s health, lifestyle, and environment to pinpoint any stress-inducing factors. More importantly, take the necessary steps to remedy them—your dog will thank you for it. If irritating or sudden noises cause them to be extra anxious, try weighted blankets or noise machine to cut down on the effect of the noises. As always, make sure to check with your vet to make sure the anxiety isn’t caused by undiagnosed pain.
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