Exercise

Sometimes, your stress becomes your pet’s stress. If a crazy work schedule means you aren’t taking your dog for the regular walks he’s become accustomed to, he’ll feel anxiety.

The change in routine, the loneliness and the feeling of being cooped up are all possible contributors to stress that can be eliminated by simply taking your pup outside to stretch his legs and get some fresh air.

A tired dog is a happy dog, and sometimes, the best home remedy for dog anxiety is getting them out of the house and letting them exercise. Even old dogs need regular exercise, as long as it involves activities that are easier on their aging joints.

Mental Stimulation

As Dr. Coger explains, this stress-relief technique works on several levels. For instance, teaching your dog a new trick diverts his attention away from whatever is causing the stress in the first place.

You’re also engaging with him one-on-one—something many stressed dogs crave from their owners after long days alone at home. “A lot of dogs develop stress behaviors out of boredom,” she says. “But that can be avoided by simply having some fun together.”

We often think that tiredness only comes from physical exertion, but mental exertion can have the same calming effects. It doesn’t matter what new trick you teach your dog—anything that challenges him can provide stress relief.

Taking a different route for a “scent walk” can provide both physical exercise and extra stimulation as your dog sniffs new bushes and meets new neighbors.

Adding enrichment to your pet’s day by feeding him from a puzzle ball or toy provides additional mental stimulation. There is no rule that says animals should only eat out of a bowl!

Music

A 2017 study by the Scottish SPCA and the University of Glasgow showed that the right music could be effective in decreasing signs of anxiety in dogs.

The researchers observed groups of dogs with various types of music playing. After a week, they played a different genre of music. They found that soft rock and reggae music were the most effective, but individual dogs had distinct preferences.

Playing your pet’s favorite music at a low volume can add another layer of calm to your pet’s environment. But first make sure that your dog does indeed appreciate it by watching your dog's body language.

Supplements

Pet owners can treat doggy stress with melatonin, a hormone that naturally rises in the bloodstream when animals sleep, says Dr. Coates. Melatonin may help pets stay calm in the short-term (e.g., for a planned car trip or before a thunderstorm) or can help them sleep better.
 
NOTE: Well Loved Calming Chews contain a holistic blend of natural calming ingredients including: Melatonin, Hemp Seed Oil, Hemp Seed Powder, Chamomile, Thiamine Mononitrate (B-1), Passion Flower, Ginger, & L-Tryptophan.  Give recommended dose 30 minutes prior to stressful situation.

Veterinarians in article referenced above are not affiliated or sponsored by Well Loved.