Anxious animals can be difficult to love.
An anxious animal is also an anxious owner because of the stress it causes you and your pet. They lose their appetite, pace back and forth, and cower as a reaction to stressful situations.
If your dog is suffering from anxiety, you need to help them. This is why we’re going to cover anxiety in dogs so you can begin fixing their symptoms before the problem becomes even worse.
Keep reading to learn what the signs of anxiety in dogs are and why they start acting differently.
1. Aggressive Behavior
Signs of anxiety in dogs are behaviors that are the result of an underlying anxious state. In extreme cases, dogs show outward signs of aggression. This aggression may be expressed through growling, or lunging at other animals or people.
Dogs may often guard objects or places associated with their anxiety. They may also become destructive, seek attention, and display signs of obsessive-compulsive behavior.
2. Excessive Barking
In an anxious dog, barking can be persistent and can become louder and with increasing intensity. Excessive barking can also occur concurrently with destructive behaviors such as chewing and scratching.
If not addressed, this can cause additional distress to the animal. Anxious dogs may also seem overly alert even when nothing concerning is present. They can pant or salivate uncontrollably and will often wander in search of a safe environment.
3. Chewing or Licking
Some of the signs of pet anxiety in dogs include chewing and licking. A dog may chew or lick objects, itself, or people as a response to stress or fear. Excessive chewing or licking may signal the presence of anxiety in a dog.
It is important to recognize the behavior and take action, as these activities can cause skin or health problems. If you notice increased chewing or licking in your dog, try to identify any potential causes of stress or anxiety.
4. Disinterest in Playing
One of the most common signs of anxiety in dogs is their disinterest in playing. This can manifest in decreased playfulness, which can cause them to stop fetching, running, and even interacting with people or other animals.
When this occurs, a lack of energy or enthusiasm can be observed. Additionally, some dogs may begin to retreat from areas where they were once comfortable or engage in repetitive behaviors such as pacing or circling.
5. Decrease in Appetite
Anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways, such as a decrease in appetite. This could include:
- complete refusal to eat
- a sudden decrease in appetite
- decrease in consumption of food
A dog’s general lack of enthusiasm for food, along with pacing, restlessness, or increased vocalization, could be signs of anxiety-related reduced appetite. Consider CBD soft chews for dogs if your pup’s appetite is taking a hit, as they may provide relief from the underlying anxieties driving the lack of appetite.
Understanding Anxious Animals Behavior
Anxious animals are a common occurrence that can range from mild to severe. While the signs can be subtle, it is important to be aware of the signs and find ways to stop anxiety for your pet. Talk to your veterinarian if you notice any of the signs of anxiety in your dog. With the right pet care and attention, you can provide a happy and healthy life for your pet!
Do you want to learn more about keeping your dog healthy? We have tons of articles on how to care for your four-legged friend. Be sure to check out the rest of our articles today.