When you own a dog, you want to take them everywhere with you. Whether it is to the park, on a walk, or to a café, dogs are great companions. However, some dogs can be anxious and nervous in certain settings such as busy places.
If your dog gets nervous or scared in these places, it is important to know how to calm them down. Here are some tips to help you calm your dog in busy places.
1. Start with Exercise
A calmer dog is a happy dog. Ensure your pup gets enough exercise and playtime before heading to a busy place. An exercise session can help to release pent-up energy, reduce stress, and make them more relaxed.
In addition, a tired dog is more likely to be relaxed in a busy environment.
2. Practice Calm Behavior
Training your dog is important not just for their own safety but also to ensure they are well behaved. Practice behaviors such as “sit”, “stay” and “heel” to keep your dog calm in busy places.
Teach your dog to remain calm and quiet, and ignore distractions.
3. Use a Calming Aid
If your dog is particularly anxious, using a calming aid can help. These aids include calming supplements, pheromone sprays, essential oils, and even specialized dog vests that provide a sense of security.
Talk to your vet about the best calming aid for your dog before trying any new remedies.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can be a great way to calm your dog in busy places. Reward good behavior with treats, praise and affection consistently. Use treats and praising to create a positive association with the new situation.
If your dog gets nervous or scared, redirect their attention with treats, toys, or praise for doing a good job in distracting them from feeling anxious in the first place.
5. Take Breaks
Busy places can be overwhelming, even for humans. Make sure to take regular breaks if you are out with your dog in a busy environment. Go to a quiet spot where your dog can rest and relax away from the crowd.
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Use this time to give your pup treats, water and a snuggle-up time with you.
6. Comfort Your Dog
Your dog can sense your energy levels and emotions. If you are worried about your dog’s behavior in a busy place, they may sense it and feel anxious too. Stay calm and positive around your dog, and reassure them with love and affection.
Pet your dog’s back or head to calm them down. If your dog feels happy, relaxed and secure in the company of a loving owner, they will feel calm in any environment.
7. Create a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. If you have a schedule of where you like to take your dog, they will become more comfortable over time. Over time your dog will come to expect these places and feel relaxed even in the busiest of places.
It is important to keep your dog’s routine consistent so that they become familiar with their surroundings, feel more comfortable, and are easier to calm down.
8. Keep your Leash Short
In busy places, your dog should be on a leash. When walking in a busy area, keep your dog on a short leash to keep them close to you. Short leashes can help you to keep your dog safe and provide a sense of security.
It can also prevent your dog from playing with other dogs and getting distracted.
9. Be Patient
Remember, above all things, dog training requires patience. Be patient with your dog and keep practicing to make them more comfortable in busy places.
Don’t get upset if they get nervous, instead, encourage them through the process with positive reinforcement and love. Calming techniques, such as the ones suggested above, can help transform your nervous dog into a relaxed and happy companion in the busiest environments.
10. Seek Professional Help
If your dog’s anxiety levels are getting out of control, it’s time to consider a professional dog training. A veterinary behaviorist or certified dog trainer can help guide you on how to train your dog and build their confidence.
They can also suggest other dog behavioral modification techniques that you can use to help reduce your dog’s anxiety.
