IT’S NOT WHAT you think! The arousal that matters to dog owners is the sort that shows up as hyperactivity, barking, jumping, over-reactivity, even biting. It might also manifest as fearful escape, shrinking back, or shutting down.
    Physically, our dogs react as we do to events that trigger the “fight or flight” response—a sophisticated chemical reaction involving hormones and neurotransmitters. At modest levels, arousal improves performance and enhances learning. But at higher levels, or for prolonged periods, learning is impeded, fine motor skills deteriorate, and the cascade of brain chemicals starts damaging cells.
    Which brings us to recovery. It takes time for the body to process those brain chemicals once the crisis has passed. Depending on the individual and the degree of arousal, it can take several hours to several days to restore a healthy balance.
    Moreover, once arousal chemicals are elevated, it takes less and less stimulation to trigger another reaction. Know any thrill-seeking humans? Arousal feels good, so the body can become addicted to the “high” of arousal chemicals. Same with dogs.
    For complete recovery, we have to be able to turn off and avoid arousal triggers for long enough to detox and restore a healthy balance. In humans, this might mean taking time off, not checking email before bed, or screening phone calls at dinner.
    How can you help your dog avoid his arousal triggers? Like humans, dogs differ in their sensitivity to arousal. Some are addicted to the high, while others are extremely sensitive and easily aroused, barking at anything, running the fence, or diving for cover. These dogs are often physically rigid, move too much or not enough, and may not sleep well through the night.
    It’s uncomfortable and unhealthy to be on edge all the time, so here are some ways you can help your stressed-out pooch:
    Reduce access to triggers. Cover windows, close doors, supervise yard time, take walks at quieter times, change fencing, use white noise to cover external sounds.
    Teach relaxation skills. “Relax on a mat” (described in Chill Out Fido by Nan Arthur) and Karen Overall’s “Protocol for Relaxation” are good places to start. Remember that dogs pick up on our energy, so if you want your dog to relax, you need to relax as well.
    Provide stress-relieving activities. Chewing is one way dogs relieve stress, so give them plenty of appropriate chew items. Rhythmic movement also helps, so a brisk walk for 15 to 20 minutes is a good idea if you can avoid triggers.
    Engage their brains. Problem-solving promotes concentration without arousal. Try nose work (“Find it”), puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, or slowly working an obstacle course. Google “Sprinkles” for a new twist on a scent game. Keep training sessions short and non-aversive to avoid more stress.
    Quality rest. Napping in a crate or quiet room may be necessary to help a dog achieve the deep REM sleep for recovery and cellular repair.
    Quality nutrition. Food plays a critical role in how dogs feel and behave. Make sure you are feeding the highest-quality, most natural food you can afford. Avoid feeding anything that contains artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
    Added support. Alternative therapies such as TTouch, massage, a Thundershirt or Anxiety Wrap, flower essences, Chinese medicine, homeopathy, essential oils, energy work, and the D.A.P. diffuser can all help dogs relax. The nutritional supplements lactium and L-Theanine (available in chewable form from your vet) can help with anxiety and sound sensitivity. In severe cases, your vet may suggest anti-anxiety medication.
    Dogs with arousal issues can be a challenge, but most can lead calmer, healthier, happier lives with a little help and daily relaxation sessions that will benefit you, too.
   
Cricket Mara operates a dog behavior consulting practice in Corrales called Pawsitive Dog. Send comments and questions to cricket@pawsitivedog.com.
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