5 Essential ways to combat Stress and Anxiety!

A Thundershirt applies gentle and constant pressure to your dog, much the same as swaddling a baby.  This constant pressure can help alleviate feelings of stress. Get your best friend a thundershirt here

Also known as the rest and digest system, the PNS helps the body to de-stress by reducing blood pressure and cortisol levels, and stimulating the release of relaxation hormones serotonin and dopamine.

Ensure your dog is receiving enough physical and mental stimulation to help satisfy their need to burn energy and interact with their environment, and in doing so having less pent up energy to spend on bad behavior.

When you need to leave your dog at home alone, consider leaving a TV or radio on for them for company.  In extreme circumstances or if you are gone for extended periods, consider dog day retreats.

When training your dog, ensure that it is clear to them what their boundaries are.  Provide clear guidelines about where the dog is allowed to go and what behaviors are acceptable.  It is essential to be consistent in enforcing these rules through the use of positive reinforcement.