Tips for reducing anxiety in dogs

Does your dog engage in destructive behavior when you leave them home alone? Or run for cover at the first sign of a thunderstorm? They might be suffering from anxiety. Read on for some tips that might help reduce their anxiety and boost their confidence. 

Establish a consistent routine.

Sticking to a schedule can help anxious dogs feel more secure. Predictability and routine in their mealtimes, bathroom breaks, exercise, and bedtime can help reduce anxiety levels in dogs who may not be so naturally chill. To keep mealtime simple and on schedule, try feeding them Carnos Complete and Balanced raw meals. They’re ready to serve straight from your fridge, no supplements or extra ingredients required, so you don’t have to build extra time into your schedule for meal prep.  

Give them something (healthy) to gnaw on.

Chewing releases endorphins (the happy hormone!) in our dogs. Giving them a raw meaty bone or some other healthy snack to chomp on can be very soothing, not to mention gives them a great indoor workout! Just make sure that, if you’re opting for a bone, it is a safe bone to feed. 

Create a safe space for them to retreat to.  

All dogs, but particularly those with anxious or nervous tendencies, need a safe place that they can retreat to whenever they are feeling overwhelmed or afraid. Whether it’s their own crate or a separate room, giving them space to self-regulate and decompress will teach your dog that they can opt out of stressful scenarios and calm themselves down, helping to build their confidence.  

Anxiety in dogs is a tricky thing to manage and often takes a multi-pronged approach with lots of love, care, and patience. Change won’t happen overnight, but with persistence and encouragement, you can help your dog build their confidence. 

Disclaimer: Carnos is not an animal training organization, and this is not a medical advice resource. For help with behavioral issues in your pets, please seek the advice of a licensed veterinarian or animal behavioral specialist.