Is Your Norwegian Lundehund Anxious? Here's How to Tell

photo of Lundehund Dog

Keeping our dogs healthy and happy is the ultimate goal of any dog owner. It is why we do many of the things we do regularly. We get our dogs groomed, buy them toys and treats, keep up on their diet and exercise, and participate in their favorite activities with them. While making sure our dogs are happy may seem like a basic task to many, there is an abundance of factors into canine health and lifestyle.

When we think of dog health, we often think of physical health and the conditions that can affect it. Most dog owners can easily recognize symptoms of a physical health condition, such as limping or vomiting. While these are important, so are mental and psychological health conditions. Psychological health plays a significant role in your dog's health and happiness, though it may be often overlooked.

Like all dog breeds, the Norwegian Lundehund can be prone to psychological health conditions. Dogs can experience stress, anxiety, and even canine dementia. Keeping an eye out for possible symptoms of these conditions and knowing how to manage them is one of the best ways to provide your dog with a happy and healthy life. We'll take a look at all of the Norwegian Lundehund anxiety basics and all you need to know about this condition and your beloved pup.

Two Norwegian Lundehund dogs credits to animals.net

Norwegian Lundehund Dog Breed Basics

 

Knowing the Norwegian Lundehund dog breed information can help you narrow down potential symptoms and keep your dog's health in the best shape possible. Some dog breeds are known for certain traits or characteristics that allow them to do well in different environments or lifestyles. The Norwegian Lundehund dog breed they have been used for hunting Puffins and working alongside humans for centuries.

Because of their working history, you can expect some of their natural instincts that have developed over these years of hunting to be seen in their personalities. The Norwegian Lundehund dog has an average to high energy level and needs daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They prefer to have a job to do and need to engage in mentally stimulating tasks regularly.

The Norwegian Lundehund breed does well with various family members, including young children and other dogs. They are very loyal to their humans and love to snuggle up as they are considered an affectionate dog breed. With proper socialization, they can be friendly to new dogs and people when out and about. Because of their protective nature, Norwegian Lundehunds need to be socialized to be open to meeting new people and dogs. They also make great watchdogs for your home and can adapt to new environments, such as moving to a new house or having a new member added to the family.

This breed can be considered vocal and may whine and bark more than other breeds, though you can minimize this with proper training- something that the Norwegian Lundehund breed responds well to this. They are knowledgeable and trainable, making them the perfect dog for many homes. Typically weighing between 20 to 30 pounds and averaging 12 to 15 inches tall, you can expect between 12 to 15 years alongside your beloved dog. Keeping an eye on their health is the key to getting as many years together as possible, so being educated about conditions such as canine anxiety is important. With your help and diligence, your Norwegian Lundehund can live a long, happy life by your side.

Norewegian Lundehund in the snow

Canine Anxiety 101

 

Canine anxiety isn't a commonly thought of condition for many dog owners, though it can affect various breeds, ages, and types of dogs. Working dogs, house pets, service dogs, and more can be at risk of developing canine anxiety. This condition is very unpleasant and can even lead to other health problems. To ensure your dog is as healthy and happy as possible, it's essential to keep an eye out for potential canine anxiety symptoms and narrow down the best treatment plan for your pup. We'll take a look at all of the canine anxiety basics and some of the most reliable remedies to help combat this condition.

Canine Anxiety Causes

 What causes your dog to become anxious can vary greatly, though there are some common triggers for all dog breeds. One of the most common ones is loud and unknown noises. When they're harmless, these noises may make your dog nervous about potential threats, such as fireworks or the garbage truck. Nevertheless, these noises can seem real and scary for your dog and may be problematic for anxiety.

In addition, going to new places and meeting new people or dogs can also cause canine anxiety. Norwegian Lundehunds are protective and intelligent, which means they can be wary of places, people, and dogs that they don't know. New places mean new possibilities of threats and danger, and new people and dogs haven't earned their trust yet to let their guard down, which is why these triggers may cause anxiety for your pup.

Another common cause of anxiety, specifically for the Norwegian Lundehund breed, is a lack of mental stimulation. This dog breed has the task of hunting to focus on and keep them busy daily, creating a need to stay busy. Without activities to engage in and keep them mentally stimulated, your dog may become bored- which can lead to anxiety and destructive behaviors, such as digging and chewing.

In addition to mental stimulation, a lack of exercise can also be a common anxiety trigger for the Norwegian Lundehund breed. This breed is very active throughout the day when hunting, which has caused them to develop a high energy level. If you don't accommodate this energy level, your dog may become anxious about their boredom.

Traveling can also be another common cause of canine anxiety. Dogs are accustomed to routine and stability, and changes such as traveling can make them feel anxious. While all of these causes of canine anxiety may seem concerning, there are plenty of ways to combat this condition at home. We'll look at identifying canine anxiety and what to do about it. 

Norwegian Lundehund standing on ground with leaves

Canine Anxiety Symptoms

 Every dog lover wants their pup to be happy and experience minimal anxiety. You must be familiar with anxiety symptoms to recognize that your dog may be developing it. Anxiety symptoms can look different in every dog, but there are some common ones for you to watch.

One of the most common canine anxiety symptoms is changes in body language. Anxious dogs may begin to cower away or hide. In addition, they may also face their ears down or backward. Some extremely anxious dogs may even begin to shake or tremble. Yawning, drooling, and panting can also be signs of anxiety in Norwegian Lundehunds.

Energy levels can be another common indicator of canine anxiety. An anxious dog may become restless and even pace around the home. If your dog begins to do laps around your backyard or dining room table, this may signify that they're experiencing anxiety. On the other hand, some anxious dogs may become lethargic and have very low energy. Whining, barking, and howling can also be signs of canine anxiety.

An anxious dog may refuse to eat and experience weight loss in extreme cases. Decreased appetite can be a common sign of canine anxiety. Some dogs may even have trouble with potty training and begin having accidents inside of their home when feeling anxious. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, consider anxiety as a possible cause.

Anxiety Remedies

 To effectively minimize canine anxiety in your Norwegian Lundehund, you must be willing to explore different anxiety remedies. Some remedies work better for certain dogs than others. Knowing the possible cause of your dog's anxiety symptoms can help you find the best remedy for them. In addition, be sure to try various remedies to see which works best for you and your pup. We'll look at some of the most reliable anxiety remedies for different anxiety triggers, severity, and frequency.

Calming Dog Treats

 Many dogs experience anxiety more than once in their life- which is why companies have begun to offer an abundance of different anxiety-fighting products. One of the best ways to combat canine anxiety in your Norwegian Lundehund puppy or adult dog is calming dog treats. Calming dog treats contain naturally soothing ingredients that are safe for your dog to eat. They can help for occasional anxiety episodes or frequent, everyday anxiety.

When purchasing calming dog treats, always buy from a reputable company. These companies source natural and safe ingredients and use healthy portions to calm your dog. Check the ingredient list for potential allergens if your Norwegian Lundehund suffers from food allergies. With your help and some delicious calming dog treats, you can help stop anxiety at the source and provide your dog with a calm, relaxed life.

Dog treats

Exercise

 The Norwegian Lundehund breed is active due to its extensive history of hunting Puffin birds and performing working-dog duties. Because of this, they can become very anxious when they cannot get all of their energy out regularly through exercise and various activities.

It's best to keep your Norwegian Lundehund puppy or adult active and in shape. One dog sport that can help you do so is playing fetch. You can do this with a frisbee or ball and play in your backyard or at a local park. Playing fetch for fifteen to thirty minutes per day can greatly combat canine anxiety and keep your dog as healthy and happy as possible.

Along with playing fetch, going for a daily walk or run is another great way to keep your dog active and prevent anxiety. The Norwegian Lundehund daily exercise requirement is thirty minutes to one hour. One or two walks per day can meet this exercise. Keeping your dog active will prevent anxiety and other conditions, such as obesity. After exercising your dog each day, you're sure to notice how relaxed and anxiety-free they are from being able to burn off all of their excess energy.

Norwegian Lundehund running down hill credits to dogbreeds.com

Mental Stimulation

 One of the most commonly known traits of the Norwegian Lundehund breed is its need for mental stimulation. Without it, they can become very anxious and get into some trouble. To avoid this, you must provide them with as many mentally stimulating activities as possible.

One of the best ways to keep your dog stimulated is with puzzle toys. Like traditional dog toys, puzzle toys keep your dog engaged and allow them something to do- though puzzle toys take this a bit further. You can fill puzzle toys with dog treats and dog food that make your dog find the best way to reach them. They will need to find different approaches and strategies to obtain the delicious food inside. They will put their brains to work during this process and get some of the mental stimulation they need to prevent anxiety.

Aside from puzzle toys, scent games can also be a great way to overcome and prevent anxiety. You can play scent games by hiding dog treats throughout your home. Your dog will have to use their senses and brain to locate these yummy snacks, giving them plenty of mental stimulation. Doing scent games in a new place, such as a new home or place you're visiting, can also help familiarize your dog with the space and help them get past the anxiety that may come with being in an unknown area. Consider using calming dog treats with puzzle toys or scent games for added anxiety relief.

Calming Spaces

 Calming spaces are a great way to prevent canine anxiety and keep your dog feeling safe and secure, so many dog owners choose to crate train their dogs. Crate training provides your dog with a dedicated space to relax and retreat when feeling overwhelmed or nervous due to any anxiety triggers. Like humans, Norwegian Lundehunds enjoy the comfort and relaxation that a safe and secure space can provide.

When crate training, consider using a calming dog carrier. These dog carriers have the soft fabrics and plush texture your dog needs to unwind and feel mellow. You can use these to ease the anxiety that a car or plane may cause your pup when traveling. If you choose not to use a calming dog carrier, consider a calming dog bed and a regular dog crate. These dog beds offer soft textures to help your dog feel safe and less anxious.

You can also use Calming dog inserts inside your dog's crate for added serenity and calmness. These inserts have naturally relaxing smells that help your dog unwind and combat anxiety. If you choose not to crate train your dog, you can still provide them with a calming space by placing a calming dog bed in a low-traffic area of your home. Here, they know they can have a place to themselves to rest and relax when they're feeling anxious. Calming spaces is an easy and reliable way to combat canine anxiety.

Dog Training

 Dog training is one of the best ways to prevent canine anxiety in your Norwegian Lundehund by keeping them active and mentally stimulated. Both obedience training and agility training provide your dog with a task to do that engages both their mind and their body. You can do these training activities at home or on the go. To best combat anxiety, be sure to work on dog training every day and stay consistent with this process. Using calming dog treats as a reward for successfully learning part of a command can also help prevent canine anxiety and ensure your dog is living the happiest, healthiest life.

Norwegian Lundehund at training expo

Wrapping Up

 

Canine anxiety is a troubling condition for any dog owner to face. It can significantly impact your dog's health and happiness and can look different in each pup. To successfully treat canine anxiety, you must first be able to recognize some common symptoms, such as body language, energy changes, decreased appetite, and more. If you notice any of these signs in your Norwegian Lundehund dog, it's best to try and narrow down a potential cause. After you have identified possible anxiety triggers, you can begin to work towards the best remedies to use. Some dogs respond better to mental stimulation when it comes to anxiety, and others may respond better to simply eating calming dog treats regularly. Whatever works best for you and your dog, stay consistent in your anxiety management. With your help, your dog will be able to live a long, happy life by your side that's free of anxiety and full of joy.

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