How to Reduce Stress in Dogs

When stress affects man's best friend a variety of physical changes will take place. Recognizing the cue signs of stress is very important for dog owners so they can intervene and take action in order to reduce such state of mind. Dogs can get stressed for a variety of reasons, the most common being moving to a new home, going to the vet, meeting new people and other dogs, being left alone, fearing thunder or loud noises, and so forth. 

Dogs are ultimately instinctual animals, they will react to stress in a fight or flight mode. What this means is that when under stress their endocrine system will release adrenaline from the adrenal gland causing bodily changes to take place such as increased heart beat,  increased breathing, high blood pressure, dilated pupils and an over all alert state of mind. Over time, the effects of these stress responses may lower the immune system making the dog prone to illness.

There is no doubt therefore that stressed dogs need to be helped overcome their stress and fear. There are a variety of methods to help a stressed dog ranging from behavior modification techniques to medications in the most severe cases. Following are some tips on how to help a stressed dog lead a less stressful life. 

Dogs live in the present, therefore they are able to easily overcome problems of their past if their owners are capable of using effective training methods. A dog behaviorist should be consulted in deep rooted problems where dogs are stressed because of abuse or lack of socialization. A veterinarian is also a good place to start so to exclude any possible health problems.

• Using Desensitation

Many times with a good desensitation program stress responses can be extinguished with time. For instance, dogs that get stressed by thunder storms benefit from listening to recordings of thunder. Such recordings are first played on a very low volume for brief periods watching for possible signs of stress. After some time, when stress responses are low, the volume will be increased gradually until the dog no longer pays attention to the noise. With lots of practice, eventually the fear will wean off thanks to this behavior modification technique.

• Engaging in Contrasting Behaviors

Dogs that are stressed may have a hard time engaging in other behaviors, since their mind is so concentrating in being alert. This can be used to a dog's advantage by engaging stressed dogs in activities that are in contrast with being stressed. Encouraging a stressed dog to play for instance, may help the dog overcome the stressful feelings because it cannot be stressed and play at the same time.

• Providing Ample Exercise

Exercise has a calming effect on dogs therefore it is a good idea to walk stressed dogs a lot if this does not constitute another source of stress. A game of fetch, hide and seek, or a romp at the dog park are good ways to release pent up energy and allow he dog to relax. Exercise indeed helps release endorphines which are hormones with a calming effect.

• Music Therapy

Music does not benefit only humans but it affects animals as well. The soothing effects of music were studied by sound researcher Joshua Leeds, who co-authored with with veterinary neurologist Susan Wagner, in the making of the book ''Through A Dog’s Ear: Using Sound to Improve the Health & Behavior of Your Dog''. ''“When I witnessed the results of the calming music on my own canine patients and those of my colleagues, I knew this was breakthrough work in music therapy for dogs,” stated Wagner.

• Massage Therapy

Massages as well may prove beneficial to canines in need of some relief from the hustle and bustles of every day life. Owners can give a nice massage to their four legged friend and benefit as well from the effects since it is well known that dogs may provide health benefits as well. If unsure on how to proceed owners may resort to a professional. Indeed, there are professionals out there specialized in canine massages. Petplace.com offers an insight on some techniques.

• Chewing Stress Away

Chewing is an activity that may help reduce stress in dogs. It is not surprising to see a dog gnaw on a bone and then fall asleep minutes later. Chewing can almost be compared to nail biting or smoking in humans, a habit that if directed to the right chew toys may benefit both dog and owners.

• Pheromone Plug Ins

There are special plug in products that release pheromones, special hormones that the mother dog releases upon lactating to the litter.These are known as D.A.P. an abbreviation for dog appeasing pheromones. These pheromones help dogs calm down and can be found under the form of plug in diffusers or sprays. Many owners report a calmer state of mind.

• Bach Flowers

Dog owners looking for alternative remedies to traditional Western medications, may find that Bach flowers may even benefit man's best friend. Rescue Remedy is an alcohol free combination of extracts that may help dogs in stressful situations. These include visits to the vet, fear of loud noises, adaptation to new environments and separation anxiety.

As seen, there a variety of ways to make life easier on your four legged friend. With time, patience and determination, your dog may be able to relax and his great personality may finally have a chance to shine through.