Focus on Canine Mental Health: Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Dogs

Understanding your dog’s emotional wellbeing and how to support it, naturally.

Just like us, dogs can struggle with their mental health. Whether it’s separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or changes in routine, more pet parents are recognising that emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical health for our canine companions.

At The Pets Larder, we believe in treating dogs as beloved members of the family—and that means supporting their mental health with the same care and attention we give their diet, exercise, and medical needs.

🧠 What Does Canine Mental Health Really Mean?

Dogs are emotionally intelligent animals. They thrive on companionship, routine, and environmental stability. When something disrupts that balance—like a house move, a new baby, or even being left home alone—they can experience emotional distress.

Common signs of anxiety or depression in dogs:

• Excessive barking or whining

• Destructive behaviour (chewing, digging, scratching furniture)

• Pacing or restlessness

• Withdrawal or loss of interest in play

• Changes in appetite or sleep

• Accidents in the house

• Licking or chewing paws excessively

Sound familiar? Don’t worry—these are natural reactions to stress, and there are now more solutions than ever to help your dog feel safe, calm, and secure.

🐶 What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?

Anxiety and depression can stem from various triggers, such as:

• 🏠 Environmental change (moving house, new pets, visitors)

• 💔 Separation from their human

• 🌩️ Loud noises (fireworks, thunderstorms)

• 🐾 Lack of stimulation (boredom)

• 🧬 Breed predisposition (e.g. Collies and Spaniels are more sensitive)

• 👵 Old age or cognitive decline

Understanding the cause is the first step in choosing the right support.

🌿 Natural Ways to Support Your Dog’s Mental Health

Thankfully, modern dog parents have access to natural, holistic therapies that can soothe anxiety and lift your dog’s mood—without sedation or side effects.

Here are some of our most effective recommendations:

🦴 1. Chewing for Calm

Chewing is a self-soothing activity for dogs, similar to how humans might fidget or doodle when nervous.

🛒 Try:

• The Pets Larder Natural Dog Chews – air-dried, digestible, long-lasting chews that offer distraction and comfort

• Pizzles, Moon Bones, Rabbit Ears – gentle alternatives to rawhide that keep dogs occupied and relaxed

🌿 2. Calming Treats and Supplements

Functional treats are designed to do more than just taste good—they contain herbs and nutrients that actively support mood and stress management.

🛒 Look for:

• Valerian root, chamomile, and lemon balm – naturally sedative herbs

• L-tryptophan – an amino acid that helps regulate serotonin

• Hemp-based calming bites – popular with anxious pups

🛒 Try:

• Dorwest Scullcap & Valerian Tablets

• Pooch & Mutt Calming Treats

• True Leaf Calming Dental Sticks

💧 3. Pheromone Therapy

Dogs communicate with scent, so calming pheromone diffusers or sprays can help mimic the reassuring smells of their mum.

🛒 Try:

• ADAPTIL plug-ins

• Calming sprays for the car or bedding

Perfect for use before fireworks season or long journeys.

🧸 4. Enrichment & Mental Stimulation

Boredom is a major contributor to doggy depression. Interactive toys and puzzles help keep dogs mentally engaged, particularly when they’re home alone.

🛒 Try:

• LickiMats – spread with peanut butter or wet food

• SodaPup toys – fill with calming treats or frozen broth

• Snuffle mats – tap into natural foraging behaviour

✨ Tip: Rotate toys every few days to keep things fresh and interesting.

🐕🦺 5. Routine & Exercise

Predictability helps dogs feel safe. Stick to regular mealtimes, walk routines, and bedtime rituals. Daily exercise also reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and releases feel-good endorphins—yes, dogs get a “runner’s high” too!

🧘 6. Training for Confidence

Positive reinforcement training builds trust, confidence, and communication. Simple games like “find it,” “touch,” or scent work are mentally rewarding and emotionally grounding.

💬 Need support? Look for UK-based behaviourists offering virtual consultations—especially helpful for dogs who get stressed in new environments.

🐾 When to Seek Professional Help

While natural calming aids can be powerful, some dogs benefit from a more structured behaviour plan. If your dog’s anxiety is severe, persistent, or getting worse, consider working with a certified behaviourist or your vet.

They can:

• Rule out medical causes

• Develop desensitisation plans

• Prescribe medication (if necessary)

💚 The Future of Dog Mental Health

The good news? Awareness is growing, and the stigma around dog mental health is disappearing. From vet-led anxiety studies to wellness products designed just for pets, the UK pet industry is rapidly evolving.

And we’re proud to be part of that change.

🛒 Support Your Dog’s Emotional Wellness Naturally

At The Pets Larder, we’ve curated a collection of calming dog treats, chews, enrichment toys, and herbal supplementsto help dogs cope with modern stressors.

🎁 Explore our range:

• Natural Calming Dog Treats →

• Functional Chews for Anxious Dogs →

• Enrichment Toys & Puzzles →

Your dog gives you unconditional love—give them the peace of mind they deserve.