When a dog gets excited, it can be difficult to calm them down. They may start barking, jumping, or even biting. This can be a huge problem if you're trying to take them for a walk or if they're in public. In this blog post, we will discuss seven techniques that have been proven to work when calming down dogs. Hopefully, this information will help keep both you and your dog safe and stress-free!
Try Positive Reinforcement
As any pet owner knows, dogs can be full of energy, and sometimes that energy can get out of control. When a dog is feeling overwhelmed or excited, it can be helpful to use positive reinforcement to help them calm down. Positive reinforcement is a technique that rewards desired behavior in order to encourage that behavior in the future.
For example, if a dog is sitting calmly, it may be given a treat or praised. In contrast, if a dog is jumping or barking, it may be ignored or told to "sit."
Over time, the dog will learn that calm behavior is more likely to result in positive reinforcement, and as a result, they will be more likely to stay calm in stressful situations.
Focus on Training and Discipline
A dog is a man's best friend, but sometimes even best friends need a little training and discipline. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and without proper guidance, they can quickly become disruptive (and even destructive). Fortunately, there are a number of tried-and-true techniques that can help to calm down a rowdy dog.
Below are some of the things that can help calm down your dog.
Scheduled Walks
Dogs love routine, and one of the best ways to help them stay calm is to stick to a regular walking schedule. This could mean taking them for a walk at the same time each day or taking multiple walks throughout the day. By getting them used to a set schedule, they will be less likely to get worked up when it's time to go for a walk. This is especially helpful if your dog gets excited when they see the leash or their favorite walking spot.
Comfort Items
For some dogs, comfort items can be a lifesaver. This could be anything from a favorite toy to a blanket or pillow. Having something that smells like home can help to calm a dog's nerves and make them feel more comfortable in unfamiliar or stressful situations. It's important to choose an item that your dog is already familiar with and enjoys, as this will be more likely to have a positive effect.
Crate Training
Crate training is a great way to help dogs feel safe and secure. It can also be an effective tool for calming down a dog that is feeling anxious or stressed. Crate training involves teaching a dog to enter and stay in its crate on command. This can be done by using positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise. Once the dog is comfortable with entering the crate, it can be used as a safe space during times of stress. This could be during a thunderstorm, when there are fireworks, or when there are guests in the home.
Calming Aids
There are a number of products on the market that claim to help calm dogs down. These include everything from supplements to collars and diffusers.
CBD oil is one popular option that is said to help with anxiety and stress. There is some scientific evidence to support these claims, though more research is needed.
This is because some products may have side effects or may not be suitable for all dogs. If you're unsure about which product to use, it's best to speak with a veterinarian.
Redirection of Energy
Dogs are high-energy creatures that require a lot of exercises, but sometimes their boundless enthusiasm can be overwhelming. If you find yourself feeling frazzled by your furry friend's endless energy, there are a few techniques you can use to redirect their focus and help them to calm down.
One simple way to redirect a dog's energy is to provide them with plenty of toys and chews. This will help to divert their attention from destructive behaviors and give them an outlet for their chewing urges.
You can also try playing interactive games with your dog, such as fetch or tug-of-war. These activities will not only burn off some of their excess energy, but they will also foster a stronger bond between you and your pet. With a little patience and creativity, you can redirect your dog's energy and help them to relax.
Employ Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is an increasingly popular way to help people relax, and it turns out that it can also be effective for dogs. Just like humans, dogs have a sense of smell that is hundreds of times more sensitive than ours. As a result, they can respond very positively to certain scents. Lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood are all great options for calming a dog down.
When diffused into the air or applied to your dog's fur, these essential oils can help to soothe anxiety and promote relaxation. And best of all, aromatherapy is completely natural and safe for dogs. So next time your pup is feeling stressed out, try reaching for the essential oils instead of the doggie treats.
Turn on the Music
It's a well-known fact that dogs love music. But did you know that music can also help to calm them down? That's right - whether it's classical or country, playing some tunes can help to soothe your pup's nerves. Of course, you'll want to choose the right kind of music. Up-tempo songs are likely to get your dog excited, so it's best to stick with slower, more relaxing tunes.
And don't be afraid to experiment - different dogs respond to different types of music, so you may need to try a few different genres before you find one that works for your furry friend. But once you do, you'll be able to enjoy some peace and quiet - and so will your dog!
Try Massage
While some people might view massage as a luxury for humans, it can also be beneficial for our furry friends. Dogs can sometimes get anxious or stressed, whether from fireworks, Thunderstorms, Separation anxiety, or just everyday life. Just like humans, dogs can benefit from relaxation and stress-relief techniques such as massage. Massage can help to calm an anxious dog by promoting relaxation and increasing feel-good hormones like oxytocin. It can also help to increase circulation and reduce muscle tension. While it might take a little bit of time to massage a large dog, the benefits are worth it for both you and your four-legged friend. So the next time your dog is feeling stressed, try giving them a peaceful massage. They'll love you for it!
Give your dog a bully stick
Bully sticks are great long lasting chews that are high in protein and perfect to help your dog relieve some anxiety. Dog parents prefer bully sticks over processed treats mainly because they don't contain any chemicals, or artificial flavors and they help calm your dog's anxiety as well as to help prevent destructive behavior, and lessen separation anxiety when left alone.
Conclusion
Anxiety and stress are common problems for dogs, but there are a number of things you can do to help calm them down. By providing your dog with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and relaxation techniques, you can help them to feel more comfortable and relaxed. With a little patience and effort, you can help your furry friend to weather any storm.
Do you have any tips for calming down an anxious dog? Let us know in the comments below.
This post was last updated at December 24, 2024 11:25
