Yes, noise phobia, stress, and anxiety are all interrelated and are all rooted in the same orientation. Stress to any pet or person can be caused by a multitude of reasons, but at the end of the day a noise, sound, or even change in a pet’s daily routine can be a cause of stress and anxiety.
Causes of Anxiety
This can be a learned behavior, lack of training from an early age, and lack of confidence. It can also be a result of prior neglect or abuse. It can be more common in certain breeds, for example, Siberian Husky’s and German Shepherds are often prone to be more stressful and anxiety-ridden. Age-related anxiety would be due to dementia and /or lack of cognitive ability. So yes is can be genetic, learned, and age-related.
What are common signs your dog is anxious:
- Shaking
- Panting
- Pacing around your home
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Unusual behavior ( Aggression, Skittish)
- Uncomfortable ( unable to sleep, eat or play as usual)
- Vocal ( Barking, Wining, Whimpering)
- Aggression towards others other than you
How to keep your dog Calm:
- Avoiding stressful situations
- If you know your dog does not like certain events, people or places try to avoid those visits or situations that may not be necessary
- Giving your dog their own personal space
- If you’re having company let your dog have their own space where they know they are safe and secure, if they want to join your company they can
- Instilling your dog with Confidence
- We often see pet owners struggling with separation anxiety, sometimes pet owners make it worse by over coddling their pet, and this actually leaves your pet with low self-esteem as they depend on you!
- If your pet gets nervous when you leave, try offering them a busy long lasting treat like a frozen marrow bone and simply leaving. Don’t make a fuss and say goodbye and get them all worked up. Just simply leave! This gives your pet confidence that everything is okay and they don’t have to be worried about your departure as they know you’re coming back!
- Homeopathic Remedies
- Bach’s Five Flower Formula
- Essential Oils of Chamomile
- DAP Pheromone Collars
- Thundershirts- These work with some pets and do not with others. It hugs the pet and makes them feel comforted.
- Keep your pet busy
- An interactive toy – like iFetch, your pet can play with themselves even when you’re not home!
- A Pet Cam- Treat your dog even when you’re not home, though a handy app on your phone!
- A morning walk- a tired pet is a happy pet! Daily walks can eliminate stress and anxiety by over 50%
- Healthy Treats- Marrow Bones, Frozen Long Carrots, Interactive Pet Feeders