For people and dogs the same holds true; when presented with an external threat, whether real or not, we have a common instinct. This reaction to perceived danger is to freeze, fight or flight. That’s the survival instinct in all humans as well as animals.

An automatic reaction to a fearful situation is a trait we are born with. Our dogs are the same and they experience some of the same reactions as we do. Abnormal behaviors displayed in your dog, over time, can be changed.

Your dog can exhibit symptoms of anxiety in ways such as excessive barking, uncontrollable urination or whining. These are triggered by either visible stresses or separation. The most common stress a dog experiences is separation anxiety.

Constant and unwarranted fear of a certain sound that can cause your dog to react such as fireworks or thunderstorm is considered a phobia. These are the most common fears that are associated with a phobia for dogs. They may have experienced something in the past and are associating that with a memory causing a response.

As dogs get older, they may experience more separation anxiety then in the past. This can be caused by the decline in memory and thoughts. Anxieties and phobia see their onset around the beginning of social development which is about 12 to 36 months. Between 8 to 10 months they may experience a fear or withdrawal which is normal.

Now we will talk about some symptoms associated with anxiety. Obsessive licking and biting themselves can be a sign of anxiety. If your dog is trembling, withdrawn or is tucking its tail then there it’s possibly exhibiting signs of mild fear.

What causes your dog to develop these conditions? Illness or a physical condition that causes pain can contribute to the development of phobias, fears or anxiety. Puppies not given proper social exposure until the age of 14 weeks may become fearful.

Some other factors that can cause these conditions are separation issues such as abandonment. Prior neglect or moving to a new home with a new owner can cause this anxiety for a dog. It’s important to know that owners need to provide a secure, safe environment for their pets from the beginning.

Most dog’s phobias and anxiety issues can be helped with medications and by modifying the behavior. However, medications can take up to 2 weeks for results and not all dogs will respond to modifications. Giving your dog a lot of love a happy home can be some of the best medicine.

Have an Animal that you Love? Visit Catherine’s recommended Pet Supplies for Dogs site that uses all natural ingredients. They have the most wonderful Natural Organic Dog Shampoos on the market.

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  5. Dogs Get Allergies Too!

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