Very anxious dog, help!?
I am a long time sitter and just started on a 4 day boarding with a repeat client. The doggo is a very sweet and mild-tempered pit bull who has always been well behaved. I have watched him at my current apartment at least 3 previous times and we get along well together, he's one of my favorites.
Today I received a last minute request from his mom to watch him for the next 4 days, I agreed because I know what to expect with him and love him.
However, while being dropped off his owner mentioned that he has been stressed out recently and had a bad day as they just came from the groomer which he did not enjoy. He has been very anxious since being dropped off and did not even approach me for the first hour of being in my place. I have been watching a lot of different animals (dogs, cats) in my place recently and he might be getting freaked out by their smells? We have tried sitting quietly and trying not to make any sudden movements but he seems very spooked. It has been a few hours now and he has finally warmed up to me again so I'm not worried about his behavior towards me, but he has barked/snapped at my roommates and I'm not sure what else to do.
We are going for another walk soon to work off the energy, but more suggestions are appreciated! How do I calm him down (we tried treats and they only worked temporarily)?
I contacted his owner and notified her of his behavior and that it was making me nervous. She gave me the emergency contact of a friend who could watch him in an emergency, what should I do
Hello, You could try a thundervest, or maybe soothing music, maybe they need just a day or two. What really concerns me is why theyd be so stressed from the groomers. I understand that stress is usual but for it to be lingering would make me question their handling of the dog.
Did the owner leave you with anything with their scent on it by any chance? That could possibly help calm him down. Since he had a stressful experience at the groomers not too long ago, and just left home, it’ll probably take him a while since he’s already stressed out at home
Since his behavior towards you is ok try taking some extra time to sit with him one on one rubbing, petting, and saying his name to calm him down. Be sure to add your roommate in some of the activity if they will be around its good for them to interact with your room mate as well.