Dog Mental Wellbeing for Balanced Mental State

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Do any of the following apply to you? 

  • Does your dog display abnormal repetitive OCD-type behaviours, chase shadows, reflections or lights?
  • Your dog addicted to ball-chasing or other thrown objects?
  • Does your dog compulsively lick or chew or tail-chase?
  • Does your dog have a persistent medical condition? Do you believe your dog frequently suffers some degree of pain?
  • Is your dog elderly? May your dog be showing signs of doggy dementia?
  • Is your dog noise-sensitive or does your dog suffer extreme fears and panic attacks?
  • Is your dog a rescue, find adjustment difficult.

I have successfully worked with many dogs whose disturbed or manic behaviour is torture for them and an absolute nightmare for their humans. The more that owners try to stop and control the behaviour, the worse it becomes. Knowledge of how to deal with it is key and one rule doesn’t apply to all cases. 

Once we start dealing with the individual case and the triggers, the dog’s compulsive or OCD behaviour reduces. Then we start working on the next steps to helping the dog become calmer, happier and more comfortable in their own head. Once you master this as an owner, it can be so empowering.
Examples of issues to do with mental health include: Chasing shadows, running round in circles, chewing walls, compulsively licking or circling, addicted to repetitive play, over noise-sensitive, terrified of fireworks, displaying ageing problems like dementia.

A dog’s behaviour is deeply influenced by both their mental and physical state — worries, stress, or lack of stimulation can affect emotion and focus, just as pain, fatigue or health issues can affect behaviour expression. When a dog is emotionally balanced and physically well, they’re more able to cope with everyday challenges calmly and flexibly. Mental stimulation, predictable routines, clear communication and appropriate physical exercise all support a dog’s ability to think before reacting. Ignoring either side — emotional or physical — can leave a dog more prone to reactive, anxious or unsettled behaviour. A whole-dog approach helps owners see behaviour as a reflection of wellbeing, not just obedience.

Theo has been such a huge help in helping us understand Ness much better and to work out ways together to build her confidence and make her feel happier. She took time to look at the whole picture and not just where the problems were occurring and helped us to view things through Ness’ eyes. We genuinely can’t thank you enough for all of your advice and guidance.’