Panic attacks in dogs: symptoms to watch for

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What are panic attacks in dogs?

Panic attacks in dogs are intense reactions to stress or fear, manifesting both physically and behaviorally. This emotional response can be triggered by situations perceived as threatening or stressful. During a panic attack, a dog may exhibit symptoms such as trembling, rapid breathing, attempts to escape or hide, and/or compulsive behaviors like licking or biting their tail. The duration of these attacks can vary from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the intensity and underlying cause of the distress.

Anxiety and panic attacks in dogs: is there a difference?

Anxiety and panic attacks in dogs represent two different manifestations of emotional stress in canines.

Anxiety presents as an anticipatory response of worry or fear in the face of an impending situation, while a panic attack is a more immediate and intense reaction.

For example, separation anxiety may occur when a dog realizes they're about to leave their home, leading to anxious behaviors such as whining or compulsive licking. In contrast, a panic attack in a dog can occur suddenly, even without a clear trigger.

Anxiety is easily recognizable because it comes in response to stress triggered by specific situations such as loud noises or moving to a new home. A panic attack, on the other hand, might appear unmotivated to an outside observer.

However, anxiety and panic attacks in dogs are certainly related because panic could be a sudden eruption of accumulated tensions, much like a nervous breakdown in humans.

It's therefore crucial to learn to recognize the symptoms of a panic attack in dogs and try to identify the causes, which should be investigated with a trusted veterinarian or a professional dog trainer.

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How to Identify Panic Attacks in Dogs?

During a panic attack, a dog may tremble, show signs of labored breathing, try to escape or hide, and exhibit compulsive behaviors such as licking or chewing. The duration of the episode can range from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the severity and origin of the disorder.

Panic attacks in dogs: 6 symptoms to recognize them

The dog is shaking

If your dog is shaking and it's not due to temperature, it's a clear sign of fear or anxiety that you can address immediately.

The dog is breathing heavily

If your dog is panting or breathing heavily without physical activity or intense heat, they might be frightened and experiencing a panic attack.

The dog flees or hides without a specific reason

If your usually confident and lively dog suddenly starts hiding under the bed or furniture without an apparent real reason (fireworks, loud noises, ongoing move, seeking coolness, or other factors that could justify the hiding), they might be having a panic attack.

The dog exhibits stereotypical behavior

If your four-legged friend persistently bites their tail, compulsively licks a paw or another body part, or intensely licks you or a particular object without stopping, they might be suffering from anxiety. When a dog engages in 'stereotypical' behavior - repeated over time without a specific purpose - it could be a precursor to or manifestation of an imminent panic attack or a symptom of generalized anxiety, which the dog manages through certain patterns.

The dog whines, cries, or whimpers

If your dog vocalizes without an already-ruled-out organic cause or a specific reason linked to a recognizable emotion, they might be suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. Crying and whimpering could be symptoms of psychological distress.

The dog becomes aggressive

When a dog is experiencing a panic attack, they might bite or have the instinct to do so. This is a natural defense mechanism, but it's absolutely necessary to work on it with a canine behavior expert. If the dog becomes aggressive with their usual friends (human or animal), it means they're frightened or very stressed, and it's necessary to work more on their confidence or perhaps on possession issues.

What triggers panic attacks in dogs?

The causes of panic attacks in dogs can be attributed to various emotional and environmental factors:

Lack of socialization as puppies

An unsocialized dog will have greater difficulty adapting to social situations, both with other dogs and humans. This lack of social skills could lead to the development of anxiety and panic attacks.

Loneliness

Dogs are social animals and need you as their point of reference to feel secure. Spending too much time alone is detrimental to their mood and emotional balance. Repeatedly dealing with separation anxiety could lead them to suffer from panic attacks.

Lack of exercise and mental stimulation

A dog that doesn't spend enough time outdoors, doesn't run, play, or engage in activities that challenge both their body and mind (such as scent work or other tailored activities for our furry friends) is an unfulfilled dog. This pent-up energy can trigger anxiety and panic attacks.

Traumatic event

A traumatic event such as past abuse, abandonment, moving to a new home, or the arrival of a new family member can cause a dog to experience anxiety and panic attacks. However, with proper integration and plenty of quality time together, the dog will regain trust, and anxiety levels will quickly decrease.

How to calm a dog during a panic attack?

To calm a dog's panic attack, it's essential to understand the cause of the distress and consistently work on building the dog's trust and sense of security, creating tailored habits that help the dog feel less stressed.

A nice walk in a green area away from traffic can be a great remedy for calming a dog's panic attack. Generally, walks should be a time for bonding and play to be satisfying and fulfilling. For example, if you walk for 1 hour and 15 minutes, divide it like this: 30 minutes of walking, 30 minutes of socializing with other dogs, and 15 minutes of your dog's favorite game (fetch, tug-of-war, scent work).

Using natural chew toys can also help relieve tension and calm a panic attack in dogs. There are various types available, and they can really help manage stress through chewing. Just make sure they're natural and don't contain splinters.

CBD hemp oil can be very effective in naturally calming a dog's panic attack. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system of our four-legged friends, acting as a modulator that restores balance by reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of well-being and relaxation.

CBD hemp oil for helping dogs with panic attacks: what science says

A study on the effects of CBD on anxiety in dogs examined the impact of CBD on separation anxiety and during car rides, which can be particularly stressful for dogs. A single dose of cannabidiol significantly reduced stress levels, measured through specific parameters: serum cortisol, average ear temperature, heart rate, heart rate variability, and whining.

We interviewed Dr. Elena Battaglia, a veterinarian, who shared her experience using CBD with her small patients. Used successfully to manage pain, CBD has had a positive impact on dogs' stress levels, for example, eliminating fear of thunder or loud noises.

When should you consult a dog trainer for panic attacks in dogs?

Consulting a professional dog behaviorist is advisable when your dog exhibits panic attacks or other behavioral issues with a frequency and regularity that interferes with their well-being and their relationship with humans and other animals. Furthermore, if you realize you're unable to manage your dog independently during panic episodes, it's crucial to seek help from a professional. They can identify the underlying causes of the distress and develop a tailored strategy that will provide you with all the necessary tools to improve your dog's well-being and enhance your life together.

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