Helping a Dog Decompress
HELPING A DOG TO DECOMPRESS
We have all had the experience, most likely many times, when we have been in a state of feeling wired and unable to relax. Perhaps work is busy, and we have been going non-stop for days. Or we had to deal with an unexpected expense. Even returning home from a fun vacation and jumping back into normal routines can cause us to feel overwhelmed and in need of some down time to decompress.
Our dogs are no different. Life can be stressful for them too. The families they live with can have a lot of busyness going on with jobs, kids and school, sports, visitors coming and going, illness, and even being alone too much or lack of mental stimulation.
It’s important to pay attention and understand how your dog shows you that they are wired, and what things cause them to get that way. Your dog may show signs of anxiety, which could look like tucked tails, panting, lowered body, excessive licking, ears back. Or if they are really stressed it can lead to being dysregulated.
Dysregulation is when the nervous system has become overwhelmed and they can’t think, they can only react. Reacting can look like barking, whining, panting, jumping, nipping, not being able to listen or do something we’ve asked, or even being completely shut down. In these times, they need us to step in and enable them to come back into a place of balance.
Here are some things we can do to help restore a sense of calm:
CREATE A SAFE/QUIET SPACE
Providing a secure, comforting space is crucial for an anxious, overwhelmed dog. A crate, if they have been conditioned to like one, is ideal, but a small space gated off from the busyness and noise of the rest of the house will work too. Include a comfy bed, their favorite toy or chew, and even soft music to help them relax and feel safe.
SET UP A ROUTINE
Dogs thrive on routine, and inconsistency can lead to anxiety. When mealtimes, walks, or play sessions are erratic, it unsettles them. A consistent routine provides a sense of security and predictability that dogs crave.
Create a daily schedule and stick to it as closely as possible. This consistency helps your dog know what to expect, reducing anxiety and promoting calm.
PROVIDE MENTAL STIMULATION
Boredom can lead to anxiety in dogs, especially if they lack mental stimulation. Without engaging activities, dogs may become restless and anxious.
Provide toys and puzzles that challenge your dog’s mind. There are many great puzzle games you can purchase online that use treats hidden in compartments for the dog to figure out how to open and move in order to get the food. These types of games stimulate the brain and will actually wear out a dog faster than physical exercise. Ten minutes of mental exercise goes a long way to keep a dog happy and less stressed.
REGULAR PHYSICAL EXERCISE
A lack of physical activity can lead to pent-up energy, causing stress and behavioral issues. Regular walks, runs, or play sessions help burn off excess energy and release endorphins, which have a calming effect. Although exercise is a great way to keep your pup less stressed, too much can have the opposite effect, so gauge the level of exercise to your dog’s energy level, age, etc.
USE POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TO HELP YOUR DOG LEARN
Negative reinforcement can increase anxiety in dogs. Punishing bad behavior may seem effective but often leads to fear and confusion, and worsening anxiety.
Rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or affection creates a positive environment where your dog feels safe. It also builds confidence and reduces anxiety, which will in turn, build a great bond between you and your dog!
In summary, remember that dogs are just as susceptible to anxiety as we are. They need a lot of the same things as humans to stay mentally and emotionally healthy. They are social creatures and thrive on companionship and adventures with their people. But they also need down time for relaxing, plenty of sleep, safe spaces, and positive learning to foster a calm mind.
For more idea on keeping your dog’s brain relaxed and enriched, check out the ‘20 Easy Ways to Exercise Your Dog at Home’ video on our YouTube Channel.