Not only people, but also animals are subject to stress. We tell you about common habits of owners that will make your pet worry in vain.
Rushing the dog on a walk
A dog’s sense of smell is a special tool for understanding the world around them, which can be compared in importance to sight. It is cruel to deprive a dog of the opportunity to thoroughly sniff what it wants. Therefore, when walking, let it guide you and explore interesting objects to its heart’s content. If your pet stops, be patient and wait until it finishes. You would probably feel uncomfortable if your eyes were closed, not allowing you to examine something interesting.
Dressing up your pet
Unlike cats, dogs are more likely to wear clothes, but that doesn’t mean they enjoy the process. Some breeds tolerate attempts to dress them up well, especially when it helps them cope with the cold. When dressing, you can’t ignore your four-legged friend’s reaction. If your dog gets angry and tries to run away, it’s time to realize that the costume doesn’t seem funny to him. And trying to put it on is nothing more than violence. Clothes can not only be a source of stress, but also have a negative effect on the skin and fur – choose outfits wisely.
Leaving the dog home alone
Separation anxiety affects mostly young and older dogs: the former are not yet accustomed to being left alone, while the latter are gradually losing the ability to take care of themselves. As a result, the animal may experience enormous stress – constantly whining and barking until the owner arrives. To avoid this, it is recommended to increase the separation time gradually and stop paying attention to the pet 20 minutes before leaving. This approach will make the moment of separation less dramatic.
Keep on a short leash
It is no secret that most breeds need active training in the fresh air – running will strengthen the health of the pet. Jogging is especially relevant for dogs that live in city apartments – in this case, you can’t roam around at home. It is advisable to walk your pet at least several times a week, but if for some reason this is impossible, make sure that the leash is not too tight and does not restrict its movements.
Pretend to throw a ball
Nothing makes dogs happier than playing with their owner. But only if the person is not trying to deceive. When you pretend to throw a ball but hide it behind your back, the game seems fun only to you. The dog feels bewildered and anxious. Regularly playing such tricks can lead to a loss of trust. Full-fledged games, on the contrary, form an emotional connection and bring joy not only to you, but also to your four-legged friend.
Giving one command in different words
Of course, you can chat with your pet as much as you want, but when it comes to commands, be kind enough to express them in the same way. For example, if you say something like “come on, sit down” along with “sit”, the dog will be confused: the pet will understand that you want something from it, but will not be able to understand what exactly. The timbre of the voice is no less important: remember that the animal did not go to a comprehensive school – it associates the sound and the action, and not the set of letters with its meaning.
Be strict
Research has shown that dogs raised in a hostile environment are more likely to suffer from stress. Constant shouting, punishment, restraining commands, and a tight leash can cause serious anxiety. Not only cruelty, but also excessively strict treatment of an animal will form a bad character. Most often, positive reinforcement is enough to form the desired skills. In training, when making mistakes, it is enough to say a stern “no” and ignore the pet for some time – this is a fairly significant punishment.
Not following a daily routine
Routines help dogs feel happier because all their expectations are fulfilled. Not to mention the importance of walks for animals that cannot relieve themselves on the premises. Create a schedule for meals, walks, play, and rest before the puppy becomes an adult dog. Animals that do not have a set daily routine are more likely to experience stress, depression, and anxiety.
Exposing your dog to loud noises
Loud, sharp sounds can easily make even the calmest person worry. The difference with dog perception is that they do not understand where a particular sound is coming from, so they can be equally afraid of fireworks and loud music. A shelter – a place to hide in case of fear – will help to survive the impact of noise from which you are not able to completely protect your pet. For example, the space under the bed, a large box. A frightened animal will calm down and come out when it is ready, and you are nearby – just do not drag your pet out of the shelter by force.
Touching the face and hugging too hard
Typical human habits are not always understood and pleasant for animals. Most of them show signs of anxiety and stress when people are too affectionate. Many dogs, for example, do not like touching their muzzles, and if a stranger does it, then caresses seem like a threat. If your four-legged friend is not happy with hugs: yawns, looks away, gets up and leaves, – reduce your enthusiasm. It is better to lower your hand to the level of the muzzle and let him decide for himself whether to communicate with you or not. Some dogs really enjoy “human” contacts – the main thing is to think not only about your pleasure, but also about the pleasure of your pet.