Calming Canine Chaos: How Dog Supplements Can Ease Your Pooch’s Anxiety

Does your furry friend turn into a trembling mess during thunderstorms, car rides, or vet visits? You're not alone. Anxiety is a common problem affecting millions of dogs worldwide. A survey by the Animal Behaviour Council of Australia found that separation anxiety was a concern for over one-third of dog owners, with noise phobias and general anxieties also being commonly reported [1]. This significantly impacts their quality of life and your own.

While traditional methods like behaviour modification and training are crucial, dog health supplements can offer a complementary approach to help manage canine anxiety. Here's how:

Understanding Dog Anxiety

Anxiety in dogs manifests in various ways, including:

• Destructive behaviour: Chewing, digging, and excessive barking can be signs of anxiety-induced stress [2]
• Excessive licking or pawing: This repetitive behaviour can be a way for dogs to self-soothe [3]
• Urinating or defecating indoors: Potty accidents that occur outside of housetraining can sometimes be linked to anxiety [4]
• Hiding or pacing: These behaviours can indicate fear and unease

Addressing the Root Cause:

It's important to consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to your dog's anxiety. Once medical causes are addressed, a combination of behavioural modification techniques and supplements can be a powerful tool in managing anxiety.

How Supplements Can Help with Dog Anxiety:

Dog supplements can work in various ways to support your anxious pooch:

• Promoting Relaxation: Certain supplements contain ingredients like L-Tryptophan, an amino acid that the body converts into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of relaxation and well-being. These supplements can help your dog feel more relaxed and less anxious [5]
• Supporting the Nervous System: Supplements with B vitamins and phosphatidylserine can help support the nervous system's proper function
• Promoting a Healthy Gut Microbiome: A growing body of research suggests a link between gut health and anxiety. Probiotic supplements containing beneficial bacteria strains can support a healthy gut microbiome, potentially influencing mood and behaviour [6]
• Supporting Behavioural Training: Look for treats containing ingredients that promote calming neurotransmitters in the brain. These treats can help your dog feel more relaxed and receptive to training, making it easier to learn new behaviours and reduce anxiety-related responses.

Choosing the Right Supplements:

Not all dog supplements are created equal. Here's what to consider:

• Consult Your Veterinarian: Always discuss any supplements with your vet before introducing them to your dog's diet. They can recommend the right type and dosage based on your dog's individual needs.
• Quality Matters: Read the label and look for supplements made with high-quality, bioavailable ingredients. Avoid supplements that don't clearly list their ingredients and dosage, contains fillers, artificial flavours, or excessive sugar.

Living a Less Anxious Life Together

Dog supplements, combined with behavioural modification training and a consistent routine, can significantly improve your dog's quality of life and reduce anxiety-related symptoms. Talk to your veterinarian today about developing a holistic plan to help your furry friend live a calmer and happier life.

 

References

[1] Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Treatment and Management On Animal Behaviour Council of Australia

[2] Greencross Vets. Anxiety In Dogs: Recognising Symptoms and How to Help [https://www.greencrossvets.com.au/pet-library/dogs/behaviour-and-training/anxiety-in-dogs/]

[3] Compulsive Disorder in Dogs [https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/behavioral/c_dg_compulsive_disorders]

[4] House Soiling in Dogs [https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/why-my-dog-peeing-house]

[5] The role of L-tryptophan and positive impact on dog anxiety [https://www.veterinary-practice.com/article/the-role-of-l-tryptophan-alpha-casozepine]

[6] Common Ingredients in Behavioral Supplements for Dog Anxiety [https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/dog-calming-products-help-ease-dog-anxiety]