German Shepherds, renowned for their intelligence and loyalty, are among the most beloved dog breeds. However, as sensitive and perceptive canines, they are also known to be vulnerable to anxiety. For pet owners of these majestic dogs, managing anxiety in your German shepherd is not just a matter of behavior modification, but also of compassion and the desire to enhance their companions’ well-being. In this extensive guide, we will discuss various aspects of anxiety in German Shepherds, signs to look out for, potential causes, and, most importantly, effective strategies to manage and alleviate their stress.
Table of Contents
Are German Shepherds Anxious Dogs in General?
It’s a common question whether the breed itself is predisposed to being anxious. German Shepherds are bred to be courageous. Though not universally anxious, they can be susceptible to anxiety due to various factors that we’ll explore. Like any other breed, individual temperament, previous experiences, health, and environment play a critical role in their mental health. Recognizing anxiety in your German Shepherd is the first step to helping them manage it.
My German Shepherd Follows Me Everywhere. Is That Anxiety?
I don’t consider this anxiety. The attachment your German Shepherd exhibits can be attributed to their breed’s history as working dogs. They are loyal and devoted, often forming strong bonds with their human family. While following you around isn’t necessarily a sign of anxiety, it’s important to discern if their behavior is rooted in a distress response or in a natural disposition. Understanding this distinction can guide your approach to supporting them.
Importance of Addressing Anxiety in German Shepherds
The well-being of your German Shepherd directly correlates with their anxiety levels. Unmanaged stress can lead to a cascade of other issues, including health problems and behavioral concerns like destructiveness or aggression. By addressing anxiety, pet owners foster a secure and harmonious relationship with their pets while ensuring their overall happiness.
General Signs of Anxiety in Dogs
Recognition of anxiety is key to providing the needed support. Signs of anxiety in German Shepherds can manifest in various ways:
- Excessive barking
- Restlessness or pacing
- Aggression
- Trembling or shaking
- Destructive behavior
- Excessive licking or chewing
- Potty accidents in a trained dog
Understanding these signs can help you intervene early.
Understanding the Causes of Anxiety
Anxiety in German Shepherds can stem from different sources. By identifying the cause, you can tailor your response to best support your dog.
Separation Anxiety
German Shepherds, prone to forming deep bonds, can exhibit extreme distress when separated. This can be due to genetics, early weaning, or lack of exposure to being alone during puppyhood.
Noise Phobias
Common triggers like thunderstorms or fireworks can induce anxiety. Their sensitive hearing can make loud noises especially overwhelming for German Shepherds.
Lack of Socialization
Insufficient exposure to various environments and stimuli during their early development stages can lead to fear and anxiety in new situations.
Past Trauma
Rescued or rehomed German Shepherds may exhibit symptoms of anxiety due to past negative experiences.
Soothing Techniques
Comforting your German Shepherd and offering a sense of security can significantly reduce their anxiety levels. Here are some effective techniques:
Physical Exercise
Daily exercise is crucial for a breed as active as the German Shepherd. Regular physical activity not only expends their energy but also releases endorphins that can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Importance of Regular Exercise
Consistent exercise routines create a sense of predictability that dogs find reassuring. It also channels their innate energy into positive outlets.
Recommended Activities
Engage in activities that challenge and engage them mentally, such as long walks, jogs, or signing them up for dog sports like agility training.
Mental Stimulation
A bored dog is an anxious dog. Mental exercises and puzzles can keep their minds occupied and prevent the build-up of stress.
Puzzle Toys
Interactive toys, particularly those that dispense treats or require problem-solving, can be excellent tools for self-entertainment. Just don’t think they can take the place of interaction with you. A stuffed frozen Kong can entertain a dog for hours.
Training Sessions
Formal training not only enhances communication between you and your dog, but also provides mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment. This is not as hard as you may think. Even with a busy schedule, it is fairly easy to work in one or two 5-10 minute training sessions a day. In addition, opportunities to train present themselves throughout the day. Your dog should be “waiting” at every doorway, for you to say OK before entering or exiting. This includes coming in and out of doors, cars, and crates. Your dog should “wait” for your OK before feeding. These are easy things to teach and vital for your dog to be a good and safe family member.
Jasper has a “place” command. He is to stay on his place bed until i release him with a free command. This is training. It also makes life easier!
Environmental Management
A controlled and safe environment plays a significant role in reducing anxieties. Here are ways to manage your German Shepherd’s surroundings:
Creating a Safe Space
A designated area that’s their own can serve as a retreat during times of stress. It can be a crate, a bed, or a specific room they associate with calm. My Papillon Louie is genetically anxious. He has never been mistreated. He came to me with a naturally anxious, distrustful personality. He feels safest in his crate. That is his happy place. Particularly if anyone is visiting.
Playing Soothing Music
Ambient music or white noise can have a calming effect on dogs and is especially beneficial during noisy or potentially anxiety-inducing events.
Behavioral Training
Consistent and positive reinforcement training is an effective long-term strategy for managing your dog’s anxieties. For instance, I never let Jasper out of his crate if he is whining. I grit my teeth and wait until he is quiet.
Positive Reinforcement Techniques
Reward-based methods not only encourage positive behavior but also create positive associations with potentially fearful situations. Jasper gets a treat each time he goes into his crate or jumps in the car on command.
Professional Training for Severe Cases
For severe anxiety, consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist is highly recommended. They can provide tailored techniques and sometimes recommend specific programs like desensitization or counterconditioning.
Supplements and Diet
Nutritional support plays a role in aiding anxiety management.
Nutritional Supplements That Support Calming
Natural supplements like chamomile, valerian root, or CBD can offer gentle calming support. Always consult with a veterinarian before adding any new supplements to your dog’s diet.
Diet Adjustments for Anxiety
A balanced diet, free from artificial additives and with appropriate protein and fat content, can help stabilize their mood and energy levels.
Professional Help
There’s no shame in seeking help for your dog’s anxiety. Vets and behaviorists can provide invaluable guidance and, when necessary, medications to manage severe cases.
When to Seek Help from a Veterinarian or a Dog Behaviorist
Persistent or severe anxiety should prompt a visit to your veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying medical causes and offer behavior modification advice or refer you to a qualified behaviorist. Qualified is the operative word. Be sure you check references.
Therapies and Medications for Anxiety Management
Therapies like acupuncture or massage can offer additional relief for anxious German Shepherds. In certain cases, veterinarians may prescribe medications to manage anxiety. It’s crucial to follow their instructions carefully and monitor your dog’s response. Sadly, there are less than scrupulous breeders out there. It is not uncommon for poor genetics to result in a genetically anxious GSD. This is not a matter of trauma, and it cannot be fixed, only managed. These dogs may need meds and should never be bred.
Preventive Measures
Proactive measures can help prevent anxiety from developing or worsening.
Early Socialization
Expose your German Shepherd to various environments, people, and animals during their critical socialization period (usually between 7 weeks and 4 months old). This builds their confidence and resilience. Socializing is often a misunderstood term. It does not mean taking your dog to a dog park where you have no idea what might happen. I’m not a fan of dog parks. Too many variables out of your control. Also, you want your dog’s primary bond to be to you, not other dogs This is particularly true if your goal is a protection dog.
Socialization is exposing your dog to many different stimuli: different surfaces, types of people, objects such as wheelchairs and walkers, hats and so forth. Expose your dog to sounds and sights like bikes, cars, falling objects, and playing children. The goal is to have him so used to the various strange things we humans do, his response is to shrug his shoulder and think, whatever, another strange human thing!
Routine and Consistency
Dogs, especially German Shepherds, thrive on routine. Feeding, walking, and playtimes should be regular and predictable. Jasper is a friendly, outgoing dog and very cuddly as German Shepherds go. Not much shakes him. However, he needs regular training and interaction. We train daily and exercise daily either using the two ball technique, since Jasper loves to retrieve, but not necessarily to return, or he follows me on my bike. German Shepherds are very intelligent working breeds and must have a job. Jasper’s job is to train, chase the ball I throw, and ride around with us in the car “protecting” it.
Conclusion
Addressing anxiety in your German Shepherd is an ongoing commitment that requires understanding, patience, and a tailored approach. By recognizing the signs, pinpointing the causes, and employing a variety of management strategies, you can help your beloved pet lead a calmer and happier life. Remember, every dog is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another. Be observant, be responsive, and when in doubt, seek professional guidance. Your dog’s peace of mind is worth every effort.