During their developmental period, a dog can become nervous if it does not grow up in a suitable environment. He needs surround yourself with love and socialize with other dogs.
When a dog is very nervous by nature, it can become hyperactive, even agitated. So we have to learn ways to relax the animal.
It is also possible that this was an isolated incident. For example, when the dog becomes nervous at night due to a certain stimulus or situation.
In this article we will Let’s explain what to do if a dog is very nervous. We also teach you how to relax and calm the animal.
The character of the dog
Nervous dog depending on breed
Dogs tend to be more or less nervous depending on their breed, without the term “nervous” having a negative connotation. In other words, some canines have more energy than others. It will therefore be easier for their vitality to make them less nervous.
To give a simple example, having a Jack Russell Terrier at home is not the same as having a Maltese. The former is a more nervous and active dog breed, while the Maltese has a calmer temperament. Of course, this is not an absolute rule, but each breed has its characteristics and peculiarities.
Dog is nervous when faced with certain stimuli
As we said, a dog is very nervous when because of his character or temperament. But here we focus on specific situations. These situations trigger a reaction in the doggy. Which makes him very nervous or exhibit periods of hyperactivity or anxiety.
Some of the stimuli that make the animal nervous can be: fireworks, the sight of an object that frightens it, other canines, etc. Likewise a dog can be very nervous at night, or he gets excited when taken out into the street.
What should I do if my dog is very nervous?
Taking into account the reasons that can create nervousness in the animal, nBelow we explain how to relax a dog that is agitatedhyperactive or agitated.
Control your gestures and movements
You are a stimulus for your dog. Your tone of voice, the movements you make, the way you look at him or address him. These elements provide information to the animal and it will react in one way or another.
When your dog is excited, don’t convey more nervousness to him. Make delicate movements, use a gentle tone and avoid. For example, you can take items that can give him more excitement. Otherwise, you will increase the animal’s nervousness.
Iron it
Just like humans, and as already explained, what we do and say affects dogs. More precisely, it is about how we do or say it.
So impart calmness by gently petting your dog. Talk to him with a soft voiceor set one quiet instrumental musicsuch as the piano.
A quiet location
This point varies depending on what makes your pet nervous. In case he is provoked in the street, with car noise or contact with other dogsit will be difficult to move him away to a quiet place to relax.
In fact, we need to confront the problem instead of constantly avoiding it. But following the same example, you can start taking him to smaller parks. There aren’t many people or other dogs that can make him nervous.
If your dog is very nervous at home, try to create a suitable environment to reduce stress as much as possible. So keep the noise down, create a room where there are no objects which could give him anxiety. Also give him a bed where he feels comfortable, etc.
Reward calm
Do you find that some of the tips for relaxing your dog work, even a little? So reward him! THAT positive reinforcement is the most effective way so that your dog understands that it is good to remain calm.
Correct exercise
This point is special important for dogs who are very nervous by nature. As we have explained, there are races with higher energy levels than others.
So the only way for them to have a balanced life and not suffer from stress or nervousness is to secure that they get enough exercise. Playing with your dog is also a good opportunity to burn off energy and strengthen your bond.
Signs that your dog is nervous
We’re guessing that if you’re wondering how to calm a nervous dog, it’s because you’ve noticed some signs that have you worried. Here are some symptoms that indicate a dog is very nervous or suffering from anxiety :
He barks very often.
Running from side to side with no apparent purpose.
He licks himself constantly or drools more than usual.
His ears are flat.
His hair stands up.
He is shaking.
In some cases, the dog is very nervous and bites.
