Common Signs of Anxiety in Rescue Dogs

When adopting a rescue dog, you need to be aware that these dogs can come with anxieties. Here, we will let you know some of the most common anxieties of rescue dogs. 

If you are looking for a smooth and efficient adoption process, you can take the services of Wagmor Pets Dog Rescue, a top company based in Southern California. Learn more about us!

Two dogs staring at something through a screen.

Food Aggression 

Food aggression is a common anxiety found in rescue dogs. When a dog has had a limited food supply in the past, they can get aggressive and try to protect or guard their food. This food aggression can get out of hand. Trying to snatch the bowl or giving punishment will not help your pup deal with food aggression. Instead, if you are dealing with this situation, you can seek help from our veterinary specialist.

Hard Time Adjusting 

Adjusting to a new place can be difficult for anyone, so it’s not surprising that the same is true for rescue dogs. When placed in a new home, a new environment, and a changed food supply, you may find changes in their behaviors.  

Dogs take time to adjust. According to research, a dog may take around five to eight weeks to fully adjust. Therefore, it is recommended that you give your dog space, bring them toys and things that make them happy, and don’t try to force anything.

A large mastiff dog standing in the middle of a field.
A great dane jumping up in a field.

Resource Guarding

Rescue dogs can easily get scared when taken to new places or when they meet new people. This triggers a guarding behavior in them, and they try to protect their belongings. So, it is pretty normal to find them hiding their food or toys after you first adopt them.

If resource guarding continues to be a problem, you might work with a professional behaviorist to find new tactics and get to the root of what’s causing this behavior. They can help you train your dog to let go and drop. It is also essential that you provide an excellent social environment for your dog. The dog rescue trainers at our rescue can help you ensure all your dog’s needs are met!

Separation Anxiety 

Separation anxiety is another common type of anxiety a rescue dog can deal with. Dogs become attached to their people, so separation from them can make them upset. Separation anxiety can cause your dogs to behave violently and make attempts to leave the house. 

On top of that, you need to make the times when you come and leave less exciting or traumatic to reduce their separation anxiety and make them feel at ease when you’re gone.

A young girl holding a small dog on her lap.

Learn More About Our Dog Rescue

 Our dogs at Wagmor Pets are trained, given the freedom of normal behavior, and relief from pain and injuries. Our mission is to promote an environment of kindness.

To enable a smooth and convenient adoption process, our team organizes adoption events where you can come and meet the adult dogs we have available for adoption. If you are interested in attending one of our events, reach out to our team at Wagmor Pets Dog Rescue in Southern California!