Sign in or Register
Search Forums
Recent Topics
-
Easy Cat Pregnancy Calculator for Cat Owners
by
whatbreed ismycat
3 months, 2 weeks ago -
How do I keep a dog entertained passively?
by
George Lawson
3 months, 3 weeks ago -
Best enrichment toys for a smart dog? Others are getting boring.
by
George Lawson
4 months ago -
Need healthier alternatives to Purina Moist & Meaty
by
Nicole E
5 months, 3 weeks ago -
dog vitamins
by
zoee lee
2 months, 3 weeks ago
Recent Replies
-
Shiba Mom on Maev Dog Food
-
alder wyn on Are you looking for dog dresses or puppy clothes?
-
Lis Tewert on Meijer Brand Dog Food
-
Emilia Foster on dog vitamins
-
Robert Butler on The Right Stuff
-
Jeffrey Clarke on Whole Paws Review
-
Adam Parker on Acid Reflux
-
William Beck on Football match with dog
-
alvin marrero on Has your dog stopped eating their kibble?
-
fnf gopro on What health issues are you trying to address with this supplement?
-
Kills F on My Dog wants to chase cars.
-
Nicole E on Need healthier alternatives to Purina Moist & Meaty
-
Dogfoodguides on Need healthier alternatives to Purina Moist & Meaty
-
malomurd on Poop pills for dogs with IBD??
-
malomurd on Recommendations for shelf-stable, high-quality wet or dry food
Reply To: Can Diet Affect Behavior?
In my opinion, his behavior is not related to his diet. Many dogs suffer from anxiety, thunderstorm phobia and separation anxiety. Often there is a genetic component that determines which dogs would be more vulnerable. There are effective medications (prescribed by your vet) to treat this.
I would make an appointment with your vet to have him examined and to discuss medication options. Some dogs only need the meds for a few months or prn (as needed) in conjunction with other treatments, for example “The Thundershirt”.
Don’t be fooled by over the counter meds and supplements (waste of money).
Your dog is becoming aggressive during these episodes, youcould try putting a blanket over him, like a tent, a safe dark place. Refrain from getting “in his face” when he is upset.
Regarding food, I have heard good things about Pro Plan Focus Salmon for sensitive stomachs.
Excerpt below from https://www.vetary.com/dog/condition/thunderstorm-phobia
Diagnosis of Thunderstorm Phobia in Dogs
As this is a situational issue, your veterinarian will rely heavily on history and your observations of your dogsā behavior during storms for a diagnosis (unless your appointment just happens to coincide with a thunderstorm). They can do some in-office tests to check the dogsā fear response to noises and other unusual stimuli. Your veterinarian will also likely do a quick physical exam to ensure the dog has not harmed itself or experienced any physiological complications from the intense fear reaction.
Treatment of Thunderstorm Phobia in Dogs
Dogs should begin treatment as soon as this problem is recognized, as it will only get worse as they age. Your veterinarian can recommend a course of behavior modification and desensitization to lessen your dogās anxiety during thunderstorms. Playing the sound of storms at a quiet level while giving the dog treats has been known to work in some cases. As the dog remains relaxed and has a pleasant association, the volume can be increased, and treats continued until they are no longer fearful of loud noises.
Your veterinarian may determine that your dog could benefit from anti-anxiety medications or a sedative to be used when a thunderstorm is eminent. Some owners have also had success with dog āwrapsā that can comfort the dog by giving them a sense of being swaddled in a protective way. These products are available through many retail outlets and can even have the bonus of offering your dog protection from a static buildup in their fur.
This is not veterinary advice; consult your veterinarian.
Sign in or Register
Search Forums
Recent Topics
-
Easy Cat Pregnancy Calculator for Cat Owners
by
whatbreed ismycat
3 months, 2 weeks ago -
How do I keep a dog entertained passively?
by
George Lawson
3 months, 3 weeks ago -
Best enrichment toys for a smart dog? Others are getting boring.
by
George Lawson
4 months ago -
Need healthier alternatives to Purina Moist & Meaty
by
Nicole E
5 months, 3 weeks ago -
dog vitamins
by
zoee lee
2 months, 3 weeks ago
Recent Replies
-
Shiba Mom on Maev Dog Food
-
alder wyn on Are you looking for dog dresses or puppy clothes?
-
Lis Tewert on Meijer Brand Dog Food
-
Emilia Foster on dog vitamins
-
Robert Butler on The Right Stuff
-
Jeffrey Clarke on Whole Paws Review
-
Adam Parker on Acid Reflux
-
William Beck on Football match with dog
-
alvin marrero on Has your dog stopped eating their kibble?
-
fnf gopro on What health issues are you trying to address with this supplement?
-
Kills F on My Dog wants to chase cars.
-
Nicole E on Need healthier alternatives to Purina Moist & Meaty
-
Dogfoodguides on Need healthier alternatives to Purina Moist & Meaty
-
malomurd on Poop pills for dogs with IBD??
-
malomurd on Recommendations for shelf-stable, high-quality wet or dry food