Question
Our Dog
Hi there,
My dog has been acting very strangely for about a week. A little background about my pet - 3 year old rescued husky/shepherd mix, neutered male.
He is generally a very gentle creature, and easily startled, but can bounce back easier than he has been lately. About a week ago we took him for a walk, and a man in an electric wheelchair was about a block away. Our dog totally freaked out and did not want to be anywhere near it. Now, when we take him on walks, instead of being an excited, hyper, happy pup, he compulsively sniffs the ground and walks with his tail between his legs. He has started to act this way at home too. He paces around our living room and sniffs the ground, sometimes staring up at the front door with ears perked. It is worrying me greatly because he seems very stressed out all the time now, and I'm sure this is not healthy for him. :( We do our best to give him lots of love and re-assurance any chance we get, but sometimes, he is just immune to our love and seems to focus on whatever it is he is afraid of.
Any suggestions greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
AnswerHi Laura,
Thank you for writing to me about your beautiful husky/shepherd mix. He is so handsome. Thank you for sending me the photo. I've always had northern breeds of my own, including 2 huskies and several samoyeds.
My first suggestion for your dog's behavioral change would be to have a complete medical examination done to rule out any problems. It should include a thyroid test and that should read exact center...not low or high normal.
Additionally you can try putting 12 drops of Rescue Remedy in his water and rub some on his gums before taking him on a walk and during the day for anxiety.
You can also purchase a product called DAP which is similiar to the odor of the mother when she's tending to her new born babies. This will be calming for you dog in the house. Raw marrow bones will provide a means of him gnawing and relieving tension. If he has trouble digesting the marrow you can scoop it out and just give the bone. Do not cook the bones as they can splinter and become dangerous.
If the nervous behavior continues there is the possibility that your vet will give you doggie xanax.
You can also try giving him some melatonin and a lot of fish oil which is calming for the brain.
Make sure that you give your dog a lot of exercise to diminish anxiety. A tired dog is a relaxed dog. On your walks pick out a special treat used only for that purpose. Keep giving him very small bits of the treat (perhaps chicken) as you walk along. He will start to associate walking with rewards. Keep the leash loose because if you are anticipating a stressful situation that stress will move from your arm, down the leash and your dog will sense it.
There should be movement in the right direction if you follow these suggestions. If you find that your dog is still having issues, then please don't hesitate to bring in a behavorist.
Best of Luck,
Shelley Davis
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