Canine Stress & Anxiety: Effective Solutions (Part 2 of 2)

In Part 1 of this series, I explored the causes of canine stress and anxiety. Now, in Part 2, I will focus on the solutions to help manage and alleviate stress in dogs, improving their overall well-being and strengthening the bond between dogs and their owners.

Why Reducing Canine Stress is Essential

Chronic stress can have significant negative effects on a dog's physical and mental health. Prolonged anxiety can weaken the immune system, cause behavioural issues, and even lead to long-term changes in a dog’s brain chemistry. Addressing stress and anxiety proactively ensures a happier, healthier life for your furry companion.

1. Behaviour Modification Techniques

The most effective way to reduce stress in dogs is through behavioural modification. These training techniques help dogs build confidence and resilience in stressful situations.

a. Positive Reinforcement

Using positive reinforcement training techniques can encourage desired behaviours and reduce anxiety. Reward-based training methods involve:

• Offering treats, praise, or playtime when a dog exhibits calm behaviour

• Ignoring attention-seeking behaviours that stem from anxiety

• Reinforcing independence by rewarding relaxed behaviour when alone

b. Systematic Desensitisation & Counterconditioning

For dogs with separation anxiety or noise phobias, gradual exposure to the stressor at a low intensity can help them build tolerance. This includes:

• Systematic Desensitisation: Gradually increasing exposure to a stressor, such as leaving a dog alone for short periods and gradually extending the duration.

• Counterconditioning: Changing a dog’s emotional response by associating the stressor with positive experiences, such as giving treats when exposed to loud noises.

2. Crate Training for Security and Comfort

A properly introduced crate can become a safe space for a dog to retreat and relax. When crate training, ensure:

• The crate is introduced positively, with treats and meals given inside it.

• The dog is never forced inside or confined for excessive periods.

• The crate is used as a calm, stress-free retreat rather than a punishment tool.

Crate-trained dogs are often more independent and less prone to separation-related anxiety (Palestrini et al., 2010).

3. Establishing a Structured Routine

Dogs thrive on predictability. Keeping a structured daily routine helps them feel secure and reduces anxiety. Key aspects of a structured routine include:

• Feeding at consistent times each day

• Regular walks and exercise

• Predictable training and play sessions

A routine allows dogs to anticipate what happens next, reducing uncertainty and stress.

4. Socialisation and Enrichment Activities

Providing proper mental and physical stimulation is crucial for a dog’s well-being. Some effective methods include:

• Regular socialisation with humans and other dogs

• Engaging in interactive play, such as fetch or tug-of-war

• Offering puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys to provide mental stimulation

• Providing opportunities for natural behaviours like sniffing, digging, and chewing

Dogs that receive adequate enrichment are less likely to develop behavioural issues associated with anxiety.

5. Utilising Pheromone Diffusers and Medication (When Necessary)

For dogs with extreme anxiety, additional support may be required. Two common approaches include:

• Pheromone Therapy: Dog-appeasing pheromone (DAP) diffusers can create a calming environment with fewer side effects than medication (Gaultier et al., 2005).

• Veterinary-Prescribed Medication: In severe cases, antidepressants like clomipramine may be recommended, but should always be used alongside behavioural training (Simpson et al., 2007). The goal is to eventually phase out medication as the dog’s behaviour improves.

6. Avoiding Punishment-Based Training

Punishment does not effectively reduce anxiety-driven behaviours and may even increase stress (Landsberg, 2007). Instead, focus on redirecting undesired behaviours and rewarding positive ones.

Final Thoughts

Managing and reducing canine stress requires patience, consistency, and a compassionate approach. By using behaviour modification, structured routines, socialisation, and, if necessary, medical support, owners can help their dogs lead stress-free, fulfilling lives.

By understanding and addressing your dog's unique stressors, you can create a positive and nurturing environment that fosters confidence and emotional well-being. If you're struggling with your dog's anxiety, PoochWise can help! I provide tailored guidance to reduce stress and build your dog's confidence. Get in touch today to start your journey toward a calmer, happier dog.

This concludes our two-part series on canine stress and anxiety. If you found this helpful, stay tuned for more insights into canine behaviour and training!

References;

Gaultier, E., Bonnafous, L., Bougrat, L., Lafont, C. and Pageat, P., 2005. Comparison of the efficacy of a synthetic dog‐appeasing pheromone with clomipramine for the treatment of separation‐related disorders in dogs. Veterinary record, 156(17), pp.533-538.

Landsberg, G., 2007, February. Diagnosing and treating canine separation anxiety. In 79th Western Veterinary Conference.

Palestrini, C., Minero, M., Cannas, S., Rossi, E. and Frank, D., 2010. Video analysis of dogs with separation-related behaviors. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 124(1-2), pp.61-67.

Simpson, B.S., Landsberg, G.M., Reisner, I.R., Ciribassi, J.J., Horwitz, D., Houpt, K.A., Kroll, T.L., Luescher, A., Moffat, K.S., Douglass, G. and Robertson-Plouch, C., 2007. Effects of reconcile (fluoxetine) chewable tablets plus behavior management for canine separation anxiety. Veterinary Therapeutics, 8(1), p.18.