A recent study revealed that nearly 3 out of every 4 dogs have at least one anxiety-related behavior. Research has shown that stress and anxiety can significantly impact the quality of our pups’ lives. While there are various methods to address stress and anxiety in dogs, a natural approach gaining popularity is the use of ashwagandha, which is an ancient herb with many powerful benefits such as reducing stress and anxiety, strengthening the immune system, and improving joint health.
So, to help our four-legged tail-waggers find peace and happiness in their lives, let’s take a closer look at the causes of stress and anxiety, ways to identify when our pups are stressed and anxious, and how ashwagandha, combined with a holistic approach that includes exercise, mental stimulation, and a stable routine, can play a pivotal role in calming and de-stressing our dogs to enhance their overall health and well-being.
Understanding Stress & Anxiety in Dogs
- Loud Noises: Thunderstorms, fireworks, and other sudden, loud noises can frighten dogs, triggering acute stress and anxiety.
- Change in Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Disruptions to your pup’s normal everyday life can lead to anxiety. So, moving to a new home or even minor changes like rearranging furniture can cause stress for dogs.
- Separation Anxiety: A lot of dogs become anxious when separated from their owners, even for short periods.
- A Lack of Mental Stimulation: Dogs need mental and physical stimulation. Boredom can lead to anxiety and destructive behaviors.
- Social Anxiety: Past traumatic experiences or a lack of socialization can lead to some dogs feeling anxious around other animals or people.
- Health Issues: Pain and illness can also cause stress and anxiety. That’s why it’s important to rule out any underlying health problems if your dog is showing signs of distress.
Common Signs of Stress & Anxiety
- Excessive Barking or Whining: While vocalization is a normal form of self-expression for dogs, excessive barking or whining can be a sign of distress.
- Unusual Eating Habits: Stress and anxiety can impact your dog’s diet. Some dogs may have a sudden loss of appetite while others might stress eat and crave more food than usual.
- Destructive Behavior: Dogs don’t do destructive things out of spite. Any destructive behaviors such as chewing on furniture or digging are usually to relieve anxiety or as an outlet for excess energy.
- Wanting to Hide: Some dogs tend to seek solitude when they’re stressed. Therefore, a stressed dog might hide or avoid certain situations or people.
- Aggression: Anxiety can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior towards other animals or people.
- Pacing or Shaking: Physical manifestations of anxiety can include shaking or trembling. An inability to settle down or constant pacing is also a common sign that your pup might be stressed.
Get to Know Ashwagandha: Nature’s Calming Herb
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an ancient medicinal herb widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. Used as an adaptogen, ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stress and anxiety and promotes overall balance. While traditionally used for humans, ashwagandha is now recognized for its potential benefits in reducing stress and anxiety in dogs.
5 Benefits of Ashwagandha for Dogs
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Ashwagandha has natural calming properties that help lower anxiety and stress levels in dogs. It works by modulating cortisol, the stress hormone, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
2. Supports Immune Function: Stress can weaken the immune system. Ashwagandha helps support immune function, keeping your dog healthier and more resilient.
3. Improves Cognitive Function: Ashwagandha supports brain health and cognitive function, which is especially beneficial for older dogs experiencing cognitive decline.
4. Improves Joint Health: Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties that can help dogs suffering from joint pain or conditions like arthritis, improving their overall physical well-being.
5. Balances Energy Levels: Ashwagandha helps balance energy levels, providing a calming effect without causing drowsiness, making it ideal for hyperactive dogs due to anxiety. Ashwagandha is also believed to boost vitality and energy levels, which can help lethargic or aging dogs.
Introducing Gutsy Calm Bites: A Holistic Approach to Stress & Anxiety Relief
Gutsy Calm Bites are expertly formulated to support mood and relaxation, containing a blend of Ashwagandha and reishi mushrooms known for their stress-reducing properties. They also include prebiotics like chicory root, apple, and tomato pomace to promote gut health, which is crucial for overall well-being.
1. Encourages Natural Stress Relief: The combination of Ashwagandha and reishi mushrooms helps reduce anxiety and promotes relaxation naturally.
2. Supports Mood and Relaxation: Expertly formulated ingredients support a calm and relaxed state, making it easier for dogs to cope with stressful situations.
3. Prebiotics for Gut Health: Prebiotics like chicory root, apple, and tomato pomace help feed and nurture good gut bacteria, which is essential for overall health. After all, maintaining a healthy digestive system is the key to a happy and relaxed dog.
4. Enhanced Calming Effects: Ashwagandha and reishi mushrooms work together to provide enhanced calming effects, ensuring your pet's well-being from the inside out.
5. Supports Whole Dog Health: By addressing both mental and physical aspects of health, Gutsy Calm Bites promote overall well-being.
6. No Artificial Colors, Flavors, or Preservatives: Gutsy Calm Bites are free from artificial additives, ensuring a natural and healthy treat for your dog.
How To Help Dogs with Stress & Anxiety
While Ashwagandha and Gutsy Calm Bites can significantly aid in reducing stress and anxiety in dogs, combining them with other supportive strategies will lead to the best results.
- Routine and Consistency: Maintaining a consistent routine helps dogs feel secure. Try to stick to regular feeding, walking, and playtimes.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity is essential for reducing stress and anxiety. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games help pups use up excess energy and promote relaxation.
- Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding your dog for calm behavior with treats or affection reinforces positive behavior and reduces anxiety.
- Mental Stimulation: Providing mental challenges, such as puzzle toys or training sessions, keeps your dog's mind engaged and reduces boredom-related anxiety.
- Safe Spaces: Create a safe, comfortable space where your dog can retreat when feeling anxious. This can be a quiet room or a cozy crate with their favorite bedding and toys.
- Socialization: Gradual exposure to new people, animals, and environments can help reduce social anxiety. Ensure these experiences are positive and stress-free.
- Professional Training: If your dog has severe anxiety, working with a professional trainer or behaviorist can provide specialized guidance and support.
We're thrilled to introduce Gutsy by Crumps' Naturals, our new line of delicious prebiotic bites and toppers crafted with your dog's well-being in mind! For more info on our Gutsy Products for your dog, click the link: https://crumps.ca/pages/gutsy
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Article Sources:
· https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-59837-z
· https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159110001243
· https://vetericyn.com/blog/ashwagandha-for-dogs/
· https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.33 9/fvets.2021.760845/full
· https://www.ucdavis.edu/health/news/common-household-noises-may-be-stressing-your-dog
· https://crumps.ca/community/crumps_naturals_blog/unlocking-your-dogs-potential
· https://www.mspca.org/pet_resources/explaining-destructive-behavior-in-dogs/
· https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/
· https://crumps.ca/pages/gutsy
· https://www.petvalu.ca/product/crumps-naturals-gutsy-calm-bites-dog-treats/FCM07044
