Is your dog always full of beans or do they struggle with anxiety in certain situations, like going to the vet or meeting new people? Whether they’re bouncing off the walls or feeling a little overwhelmed, knowing how to calm down a dog is an essential skill for every pet parent.
Being able to comfort and calm your dog will not only do wonders for their confidence, it will deepen the bond between you and lead to a happier, more relaxed life for you both.
In this blog, we share our top tips and tricks to help your furry friend feel happy, relaxed and ready to take on the world.
Signs that your dog is not calm
Dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling anxious or overstimulated, but they can certainly show us with their behaviour. By spotting the signs early, you’ll know when your pup needs some extra help relaxing.
Signs of anxiety and stress in a dog
If your dog is experiencing anxiety, you may notice some of the following behaviours:
- Accidents around the house
- Barking, howling, and/or whining
- Destructive behaviours, like chewing or digging
- Pacing and attempting to escape
- Shivering and shaking
- Hiding
If these sound familiar, check out this helpful guide on signs of stress in dogs to learn more.
Causes of dog anxiety and hyperactivity
Understanding why your dog feels stressed or hyperactive is the first step in helping them feel happier. Common causes can include:
- Separation anxiety when left alone
- Loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks
- A lack of physical or mental stimulation
- Illnesses or discomfort
For more information, take a look at our guide on how to help a dog with anxiety and discover whether separation anxiety and dogs might be part of the problem.
Ways to calm your dog at home naturally
When it comes to calming your dog, there are lots of techniques you can try at home. These methods don’t just help to soothe your dog – they also strengthen your bond by showing them they can rely on you to keep them safe and secure.
Take your time and remember there’s no one-size fits all. You may have to try a few ideas before you work out what works best for your dog.
Create a calming environment for your dog
Set your dog up for success by creating a quiet, safe space in your home where they can unwind. A cosy corner with their favourite blanket and toys can work wonders, especially if your home feels loud or busy.
Play calming music for dogs
Some dogs respond well to soothing music. Try playing gentle tunes or dog-specific calming tracks to help lower stress levels. It’s a simple way to bring a little tranquility into their world. This can be especially effective on nights like fireworks night and New Years Eve. Take a look our how to calm dogs during fireworks guide.
Exercise your dog regularly
Regular exercise is key for burning off excess energy and keeping your dog mentally and physically content. Depending on their breed and age, a brisk walk, a fun game of fetch, or a run around the park could make all the difference.
Give your dog mental stimulation
It's important to think about exercising your dog’s brain as well as their body! Games like hide and seek, scent-based games, snuffle matts and licks matts can be a great way to help engage your dog’s mind!
Why not try these fun homemade indoor games to keep your pup busy and take their mind off things.
Gradually expose your dog to fears and triggers
If your dog gets anxious in certain situations – like the hoover coming out or visitors arriving – try desensitisation tactics. Gradual exposure to the thing that seems to bother them, combined with positive reinforcement, can show your dog there’s nothing to fear.
Try dog calming products
Calming products can be a great addition to your toolkit. From calming tablets for dogs to calming dog treats, there are many options to suit different needs. If you’re wondering how to support your dog’s anxiety naturally, look for remedies made with gentle ingredients that promote relaxation, like Lemon Balm or L-Theanine.
Training and behavioural techniques to help calm your dog
If your dog tends to get excited or struggle with their behaviour, training can go a long way. The right approach can help them adopt calmer habits over time.
Consistency and patience are key to supporting good behaviour. Dogs love routines, so maintaining the same training techniques and cues will help prevent confusion. Progress may take time, so be patient. Celebrating small successes will encourage lasting improvements in your dog’s behaviour.
Reinforce good behaviour from your dog
When your dog is calm and well-behaved, it’s great to reward them for their positive behaviour as this will encourage them to repeat it. Show them physical affection and, if they’re motivated by treats, give them a couple quietly when they’re calm.
Avoid encouraging an excitable or overstimulated dog
On the flip side, avoid giving too much attention when your dog is overly excited. This can inadvertently reinforce the behaviour. Instead, try to ignore your dog when they’re misbehaving and avoid eye contact and interaction at these times.
Focus on obedience training
Consistent obedience training helps to establish clear communication between you and your dog, reinforcing positive behaviours and ensuring they respond reliably to commands. Start with basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come," using rewards such as treats or praise to motivate your dog. Regular practice and patience are key to building your dog's confidence and strengthening your bond.
When to seek professional help
If your dog’s anxiety or hyperactivity feels unmanageable, it may be time to seek professional help. Your vet can rule out any underlying health issues and share advice on what to do next. They may recommend a visit to a dog behaviourist.
And finally... patience and consistency are key
Learning how to calm down a dog is all about understanding their needs and trying different techniques to see what works best for them. From creating a relaxing home environment to providing regular exercise and using training techniques, there are plenty of ways to support your pup. With a little patience and consistency, you’ll help your dog become a calmer, happier companion.
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