When your dog is fearful or scared of certain things, they can act out in sometimes dangerous ways. This is even more of an issue for larger breads that can lash-out and cause major injury. Luckily, there are options for helping a dog deal with fears that they have developed.
Taking the time to help your dog get over their fears will develop a stronger relationship between the two of you. It may not be an easy road but the light at the end of the tunnel is bright.
First, you need to identify what is causing the fear. It might be the mail man or your phone ringing but take note of what signs your dog displays. Such signs like cowering, shaking, barking or hiding are all common of dogs that are scared. Dogs don’t know what a doorbell is or what thunder is. Some don’t think twice about it while others become fearful of what it could be.
At the first sign of fearful actions you should consult your vet to determine what might be causing the issue. There are many treatable issues that your dog may be having and sometimes a quick trip to the vet to identify them will lead to an easy solution. However, gone un-treated these fears can build into more anxiety and deeper issues.
Some vets may prescribe pharmaceuticals to calm your dog, while others may take a more natural approach and recommend something like Hemp Oil to relive anxiety.
Behavior Modification
Sometimes the owner’s actions contribute to the fear that your dog is having. Unknowingly to the owner, they are causing their four-legged friend to have serious anxiety. Such things like giving your dog love and telling them “good boy” when they are stressed can reinforce to them that it is acceptable to be fearful. Instead, giving your dog a command like “sit” during a stressful situation can start to enforce positive emotional responses and redirect their anxiety.
Planning ahead and being proactive in dealing with issues that trigger your dog’s fear will also help them get through emotionally difficult situations. If you know your dog is scared of thunder, get them a comfy spot in their crate and cover it will blanket to make them feel like they are safe in their den.
There are a variety of courses available through your vet or from online pet training that can help your dog get through their fears. If you are consistent with the programs and proactive on helping them through scary times, they will get over the problem and be back to their normal happy self!
Using CBD Oil To Reduce Fear
The legalization of hemp oil has opened up doors for treating anxiety and fear with an all-natural product. Rather than using harsh drugs, you can give your dog a few drops of hemp oil that have been shown to greatly reduce anxiety. Furthermore, dogs get other benefits like reduced inflammation and a great serving of Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids.
In fact, the benefits have been so well received by pet owners that many are taking their dogs off traditional supplements like fish oil and switching to a CBD oil routine. They are noticing reduced anxiety, better joint health, and a more positive mood. Of course, every dog is different and these results could vary greatly.
Just as with any supplement, you should talk to your vet before starting on a program. Some other medications could react with CBD or Hemp oil. By working with a vet on behavior modifications and supplements you will have the best chance of treating your dog’s fears.
How To Get Started
You need to figure out what is causing problems with your dog. If you got a rescue animal, it may be much harder to figure this out. However, do not give up. Keep a journal of different triggers that cause
fearful actions with your dog. Take note of the actions as well. Doing so will help paint a better picture for the vet or a dog behavioral therapist to figure out the deeper issues.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you want your dog to get through this, you need to ask experts and try different treatment options. It could be a long road but with consistency and focus, your dog will be forever grateful to you.