How to Help Dogs With Anxiety

The most common type of anxiety in dogs is separation anxiety. According to Julio Correa, Ph.D., in his article "Pet Care" for the Alabama Cooperative Extension, some of the behaviors associated with this anxiety disorder include scratching and digging, barking constantly, and urinating and defecating indoors. The physical signs of anxiety include depression, trembling, excessive salivating, and in some cases, self-mutilation. This anxiety is often caused by a traumatic experience early in the dog's life. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to lessen your dog's anxiety.

Things You'll Need

  • Chew toys
  • Radio or television
  • Crate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Exercise your dog. Exercise will provide your dog with the quality time he wants with you. This also gives him a release of nervous energy that he would have otherwise used chewing or scratching at your door.

    • 2

      Practice leaving on very short trips away from home. Gradually build up to spending a longer time away. This will allow him to realize that you are coming back and that your leaving is not a big deal. At the same time, do not make a fuss out of your departure. Let it be the relaxed non-event that it is.

    • 3

      Change your daily routine for leaving. Your dog is very aware of your routine and the anxiety starts as soon as he sees the familiar signs of your departure. Change the order of your departure and keep it low key.

    • 4

      Give your dog distractions. Leave chew toys to occupy his mind and mouth. This could stop his destructive chewing of furniture and provide him with hours of entertainment. Also, leave a radio or television on. This can give comfort to your dog.

    • 5

      Crate train your dog. Crating your dog can be a useful transitional tool before you let him loose in your home during your departures. Begin by feeding your dog in the crate. Create a positive association with the crate for your dog. According to Joanne Eurell, D.V.M., because dogs are den animals, the crate becomes their own space where they feel safe. Be sure to use a crate that is large enough for your dog to stand, sleep and circle around in comfortably. Never use the crate as a form of punishment.

    • 6

      If your dog is not improving or is still destructive, consider talking to your veterinarian about possible drug therapies. These medications should only be given under a veterinarian's supervision. The most frequently prescribed medications for dog anxiety are amitriptyline, which is an antidepressant, and the anti-convulsant diazepam.