How To Train Your Dog To Help With Anxiety Attacks?

Canine Companions: More Than Just Pets

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, anxiety disorders have become as common as a cold. However, unlike the common cold, they don’t just disappear with a spoonful of medicine and a good night’s rest. That’s where our furry friends trot into the picture, not just as pets, but as lifelines. Dogs, with their keen senses and unwavering loyalty, can be trained to assist during anxiety attacks. But how does one turn a frolicking furry friend into a steadfast supporter during these challenging times? It’s not as challenging as you might think. Let’s dive in.

The Foundation of Training: Trust and Communication

Before you start dreaming of your dog becoming your knight in shining armor, there’s groundwork to be laid. The bond between you and your canine companion is the cornerstone of any training. This isn’t just about your dog learning commands; it’s about mutual understanding and respect.

1. Start with the Basics: Sit, stay, come. These commands might seem mundane, but they’re essential. They establish a line of communication between you and your pooch. Consistency is king here. Use treats, plenty of praise, and maintain a tone that means business but is as gentle as a lamb.

2. Awareness Training: Dogs are naturally empathetic and can pick up on subtle cues, but they need guidance. Start by associating certain words or actions with your anxiety symptoms. For example, when you’re feeling anxious, you might say a specific word, like “support,” in a calm manner. Reward your dog when they respond by coming to you or offering comfort.

3. Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT): This involves your dog applying gentle pressure to your body. Begin by guiding your dog to lay across your lap or lean against you and reward them for this behavior. Over time, they’ll associate your command or signs of anxiety with this comforting action.

4. Interrupt Anxiety Behaviors: If you have specific behaviors that manifest during an anxiety attack, like pacing or nail-biting, you can train your dog to intervene. For example, they can gently nudge you or place their paw on you to distract and calm you down. This requires a bit of creativity in training, using positive reinforcement to reward the behavior.

5. Consistent Practice: Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is this kind of training. It requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Celebrate the small victories, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks.

Technology and Professional Help: Your Training Allies

In this digital age, you’re not alone in your training endeavors. There are countless resources online, including training videos, forums, and articles. Additionally, consider enlisting the help of a professional dog trainer, especially one experienced in training service or emotional support dogs.

• Mobile Apps: Believe it or not, there are apps designed to assist in dog training. From scheduling training sessions to providing training tips and tricks, these apps can be a valuable resource.

• Certification and Rights: If you’re looking into having your dog recognized as an emotional support animal (ESA) or a psychiatric service dog (PSD), it’s crucial to understand the distinction and legal rights each designation carries. An ESA provides comfort just by being with their owner, whereas a PSD is trained to perform specific tasks to help with a disability. The laws and certifications surrounding ESAs and PSDs differ widely, so doing your homework is essential.

Training your dog to assist during anxiety attacks isn’t just about having an emotional anchor; it’s about enhancing the quality of life for both you and your four-legged friend. It’s a journey of patience, love, and lots of treats that yields a unique bond. While every dog may not be cut out to be a PSD or an ESA, they can certainly become more attuned to your needs with the right approach. So, buckle up and enjoy this rewarding journey with your furry companion at your side. After all, they’re not just dogs; they’re part of the family.