by Christine O'Callaghan

Created on: May 18, 2008   Last Updated: August 03, 2011

Your dog jumps at noises, balks at the approach of people or other dogs, or whines when you leave the room. Some dogs are nervous by nature, others become anxious only in certain situations. Regardless of your dog's situation, there are things you can do to relieve his anxiety and nervousness.

Causes of nervousness in dogs

A dog can be nervous as a result of one or several of the following factors: lack of socialization; lack of a daily routine; noisy or angry owners; conditioning from an unpleasant experience; or genetic predisposition.

Portrait of a nervous dog

We're all familiar with the obvious signs that a dog is nervous or scared. There are, however, other signs of anxiety in a dog that you may not be aware of, such as chewing or other destructive behavior; accidents in the house despite previously being house trained; barking; growling; attacking without provocation; or hyperactivity.

When faced with a nervous dog, use the following checklist as a first attempt to solve the problem:

1. Calm Yourself
Your dog will take his cue from you. If your voice or actions betray nervousness, anxiety, or other negative emotions, your dog will reflect that back to you. Take a deep breath, speak in a soothing tone, and avoid any abrupt sounds or movements.

2.  Socialize Your Dog
This is much easier to accomplish when your dog is young, but may still be possible in an older dog. The more your dog is exposed to other dogs or people outside your family, the less threatening these "strangers" will seem. Dog parks, doggy day care facilities, or informal play sessions with neighborhood dogs and children will all provide an opportunity for your dog to socialize and become more secure.

3. Exercise Your Dog
Every dog needs exercise, but plenty of exercise is especially critical for a nervous dog. In addition to releasing pent up energy, vigorous exercise will also release endorphins, natural hormones known to relieve stress. A thirty-minute brisk walk at least once a day should be a minimum for an anxious dog. Playing catch or other games are also good ways to provide adequate exercise.

4. Massage Your Dog
Massage is a wonderful way to calm any dog while forging stronger bonds. In the case of a nervous dog, massage is especially helpful. Make sure to set aside at least twenty minutes, and find a quiet place. Have the dog lie down on a soft but firm surface, and after calming him with petting, use a light touch. Be alert to your dog's reactions to determine what works and what doesn't.

5. Play Soft Music
Just as with people, the right soft music can have a calming effect on nervous dogs. Choose music known for its soothing effect, such as classical or new age. Remember that your dog's ears are far more sensitive than yours, and keep the volume low.

If you've diligently worked through this checklist for a period of time without positive results, you may want to consider consulting with your veterinarian about medication.

Whether your dog is inherently nervous or reacting to recent events, there are ways to soothe him and restore calm in your household.

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