Core Causes of Anxiety
The core cause of dog anxiety is 'lack of security'. For anxiety in different scenarios, adopt differentiated calming strategies. Separation anxiety (barking, destructive behavior, inappropriate elimination after owner leaves) relief methods: establish positive 'leave-return' cycle, don't interact with dog 5 minutes before leaving, wait for it to calm down before petting after returning (avoid responding when it's excitedly jumping).
"Understanding the root cause of dog anxiety is the first step to solving problems. Behind each anxious behavior there is a specific reason." - Pet Behaviorist
Progressive Separation Training
Use 'progressive separation training', first leave for 1 minute then return, gradually extend to 30 minutes, let it understand owner always returns; prepare calming collars that release pheromones (like Adaptil), this substance simulating maternal calming pheromones can calm 70% of anxious dogs.
For noise fear (thunder, fireworks, construction sounds), create 'soundproof safe room': choose the quietest room at home (like bathroom), use thick curtains and carpets to reduce echo, place pads and chew toys with familiar dog scent, while playing white noise (like hair dryer, rain sounds), volume should mask external noise.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
During known noisy periods (like Spring Festival, before thunderstorms), can give dogs pet-specific anti-anxiety medication in advance (like alprazolam, requires veterinary prescription), taking 30 minutes before noise starts works best.
Key to daily anxiety prevention is 'meeting needs': ensure daily dog exercise needs (small dogs 20-30 minutes/day, large dogs 60-90 minutes/day), insufficient exercise is main trigger for anxiety; set 'interaction time', spend 15 minutes daily playing tug-of-war, fetch games with dog, let it feel attention.
Positive Training Methods
Avoid punitive training (like scolding, confinement), such behaviors will worsen dog's insecurity, can use positive rewards (treats, praise) to guide behavior instead. Experienced pet owners can also observe dog's 'stress signals' (like licking nose, yawning, tail tucking), intervene promptly when anxiety buds, more effective than treating after severe symptoms appear.
When dogs show separation anxiety, owners can leave old clothes with their scent when leaving, let dogs gain security through scent. Prepare treat-dispensing toys, put treats in toys to divert attention, relieve anxiety when alone.