Advice for anxious dog?
I'm watching 13 month old dog that won't calm down. He can't seem to relax, get comfortable. He keeps pacing around. Any suggestions? Thanks!
2 Answers
- Take him for a LOOOOONG walk.
- Play with him.
- Snuggle him as much as he will let you.
- Take him for another LOOOONG walk.
He's young; he has lots of energy. Your best bet is to tire him out. How long is he staying with you? He will likely calm down a little after the first day or two, but at 13 months he's going to need lots of exercise and play.
Comments
This is pretty common for a dog in a new place. In my experience, the most reliable solution is time. Most dogs settle in after a day or two. During those first couple days, we take lots of walks, have lots of structured play time, and they get lots of love and attention. The more distractions you can provide and the more secure you can make him feel, the easier time he'll have relaxing. I try to interrupt any anxious behaviors, like pacing/panting/drooling and entice them with something fun, like a toy or treat or another activity. I also try to reward any calm, relaxed behaviors I see with quiet praise, treats or gentle petting, if the dog enjoys it; the goal is to let him know that he's doing well and encourage him to stay relaxed rather than to get him excited.