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Features
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Behavioral signs of anxiety in dogs include excessive licking, barking and chewing their fur, according to Vetinfo. Other indications include pacing, new destructive behaviors, hiding and refusing to eat. Physical signs include excessive salivating, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation and trembling. According to veterinarian John J. Ciribassi of VeterinaryPartner, behaviors of dogs with separation anxiety include destruction of doors and windows during escape attempts and urinating or defecating in the house.
Causes
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Playing loud music helps block noises such as thunder and fireworks. Causes of your dog's anxiety can include changes in routine, loss of a companion animal, moving, illness, noises and loneliness. According to Vetinfo, owners' extended vacations or increased work hours may trigger separation anxiety. Typical noise anxiety causes include storms, thunder, loud noises and fireworks.
Significance
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Severe anxiety creates destructive behaviors. Potential effects of untreated anxiety include damage to skin from licking and toenail or tooth breakage during escape attempts. Medical consequences can include weight loss, stress and a weakened immune system, according to Vetinfo.
Treatment
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Dog-appeasing pheromone and medications for anxiety and depression help dogs with severe anxiety. According to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), behavior training or therapy also may be necessary. CVM recommends crate training to provide a safe place for your dog. According to Vetinfo, treating underlying medical conditions and avoiding situations that cause the anxiety help the problems. Companion animals appear to help dogs with thunder phobias, according to Penn State.
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Severe Anxiety in Dogs
Dogs exhibit many behaviors that appear to be based on emotions, such as fear, boredom, depression and excitement. Your dog may show anxiety due to a variety of situations, according to Vetinfo. Anxiety potentially creates both behavioral and physical responses, according to Vetinfo.