Dogs experience anxiety similar to how humans do – and about as often. Calming vests can help dogs who are experiencing anxiety, and they are being bought more and more often. They are good for dogs of all breeds and sizes.
Calming Dog Vests
A calming dog vest is also known as an anxiety vest or anxiety wrap. It is a piece of clothing that is designed to help pets when they are anxious. These vests are often made from stretchable, breathable, soft fabric that applies gentle pressure on the dog’s shoulders and has a feeling that is somewhat like a baby being swaddled.
If you have an anxious dog, you have probably tried many things that are supposed to help them, including medication. You might try to use a Calming Dog Vest if you haven’t already because they have worked for many dogs. They work by putting gentle pressure on the pet, a technique that has been used to reduce anxiety in animals and humans alike.
This article will help you to learn more about calming dog vests and how they work. It will help you to decide if this treatment would be good for your pet. You can also do more research to find the information that you are seeking.
Calming Dog Vests
The basis of these vests is pressure therapy and the calming effect that it provides. The gentle pressure that is applied to the pet will stimulate the release of oxytocin which is a hormone that is associated with trust, bonding, and relaxation. This hormone will help to counteract the stress adrenaline and cortisol which will help the dog feel calmer and more at ease.
The snug fit of the vest also provides comfort and a sense of security because it feels like a warm hug. This has a calming and soothing effect on their nervous system. This will calm your pet in times when they are feeling anxious.
Benefits of Using This
There are many benefits of your dog using a calming vest. Some of these benefits are listed below.
- Less anxiety during stressful events
- Improved focus during training or other performing events
- Reduced barking, pacing, or destructive behaviors that are related to stress
- Can be a part of a larger anxiety plan
- Promotes a stronger relationship between humans and pets because the pet associates the vest with comfort and security
Signs that it Will Help
Some signs that your dog might benefit from this include excessive barking during stressful events, signs of anxiety such as shaking, trembling, or hiding, excessive restlessness and pacing, or destructive behavior related to stressors: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/behaviour-and-training/stress-in-dogs. If your pup is suffering from any of these, it would be good to try one of these to see if it calms them down. It’s worth trying to give your pet some comfort and relief.
Choosing the Right One
When choosing a vest for your pet, there are many things that you need to consider. Some of these things include the following:
- Material – You want material that is soft, breathable, and stretchable that applies the right amount of pressure.
- Adjustability – It should have adjustable Velcro closures that will ensure a snug fit.
- Ease of Wear – Ease of putting the vest on and taking it off as needed is also important.
- Cleanability – You want to make sure that the vest is easy to clean and has removable weights. It would be best if it was machine washable.
Making Sure that it Has the Correct Size and Fit
You must have the right size and fit to ensure that this works as it should. There will usually be a size guide on the site where you are ordering the vest so you can choose the right size. Some things to check for are as follows:
- Measure the widest part of your dog’s chest and the circumference of their neck.
- Choose a size that fits snugly but isn’t too tight.
- You should then adjust the fastenings to make sure that you have a snug fit. You want the vest to stay on and be snug even when your pet is moving around.
Choosing the right size helps to ensure that you can provide your dog with comfort and relief during times of heavy stress. There are many colors and styles available, making sure that you can find the perfect one for your pup. You want him to be comfortable while wearing it or it may not work as it should.
Properly Introducing Your Pup to the Vest
When you first begin using this, you will want to gently drape it across your pup’s shoulders. You want them to feel the pressure of it but not be afraid of it. See more here. You might want to give your dog a treat when they are wearing it so that you can associate it with something positive.
Make sure that you put this on and snug it up right as a stressful event begins. This way they know that it will keep them safe.
Conclusion
A calming vest for your pet is great for those dogs that experience anxiety for any situation. You need to make sure that you get the right size for it to work correctly. If you want your pet to be calm in these situations, a vest is probably the best thing for it.