Dogs might not experience emotions as complex as those of human beings, but your canine family member isn’t a robot. Just as he gets excited as soon as you walk through the door in the evening, he might suffer from anxiety when left to his own devices. A dog clinic in Olathe, KS can help you identify the cause and find an appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of Canine Anxiety
Canine anxiety manifests in several ways. Your dog might urinate all over the living room rug or chew up your favorite pair of shoes. He might wine so loudly that your neighbor complains, or destroy your window blinds in an effort to escape. You might notice that your dog trembles violently, tucks his tail, or hides under furniture.
Unfortunately, some dogs exhibit anxiety in even more dangerous ways. Some dogs will bark loudly, snarl, or even attempt to snap or bite. This can present a serious liability for you as the owner, because if your dog hurts someone else, you would be responsible for any costs associated with injuries.
Other symptoms of canine anxiety might include:
* Frequent loose stool
* Incontinence
* Loss of appetite
* Dehydration
* Chewing skin (“hot spots”)
* Causes of Canine Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common problem with dogs. It occurs whenever your pet is left home alone. He takes comfort from your presence, and when you leave, he feels abandoned. Other dogs experience anxiety in response to commotion, loud noises, or strangers. You might also notice that negative behaviors arise in response to a very specific stimulus, such as the arrival of a thunderstorm.
It is sometimes difficult to determine exactly why your dog is suffering from anxiety. Just like people, some dogs are naturally anxious, and there might not be an obvious cause for his behavior. Keep in mind that dogs’ senses are more powerful than human senses, so you might not be able to detect a sound or odor that sets him off.
Treating Canine Anxiety
If you visit a dog clinic in Olathe, KS, your vet should be able to recommend a treatment option appropriate for your dog. This might include behavioral therapy, crate training, or medicinal intervention. Visit website
