Chien anxieux

Anxious dog

Anxious dog: how to create a calming corner (complete guide)

A well-designed resource space helps an anxious dog recover , sleep better , and manage emotions (loneliness, noise, changes). Here's how to create this safe haven step by step: location, bedding, noises, smells, rituals, and calming activities.

See our beds & baskets • Soothing baskets: Coffee • Grey • Pink • Feeding area mat: Diatomaceous earth

Summary

  1. 1) Choose the ideal location
  2. 2) Comforting bedding and textures
  3. 3) Noise, lights & smells
  4. 4) Soothing rituals & household rules
  5. 5) Quiet activities & enrichment
  6. 6) Common mistakes to avoid
  7. FAQ

1) Choose the ideal location

  • Quiet : away from the main corridor and slamming doors.
  • Visually controlled : the dog should be able to see the room without being in the center.
  • Temperature : no direct radiator or prolonged full sun.
  • Floor : non-slip, clean. Add a rug under the bed if tiled.

Tip: If your dog is watching the entrance, move the space 2–3 m away to break the alert reflex.

2) Comforting bedding and textures

The soothing "donut" shaped basket with its high rim and faux fur creates a cocoon-like effect that promotes relaxation. Choose the right size based on weight and body type .

  • Quick choice: Coffee • Grey • Pink (S → XXXL).
  • Useful additions: soft blanket in winter, mat under the basket to stabilize it.
  • Puppies/separation anxiety: a "heartbeat" plush toy can help with the transition phases.

3) Noise, lights & smells

  • Noise : Avoid proximity to the TV/speakers. Slight white noise can mask external triggers.
  • Lighting : Dim the lights in the evening. Dimness helps with recovery.
  • Odors : keep familiar smells (your blanket); clean without harsh perfumes.

For dogs sensitive to noises on tables/benches, opt for a more isolated back room.

4) Soothing rituals & household rules

  • Routine : regular meal times/outings → predictability = security.
  • "Off-limits" zone : do not bother the dog in its basket (children informed).
  • Decompression : after the walk, 10–15 minutes of calm in the resource area (soft chewing + water).
  • Sleep : 12–16 hours/day depending on age/size; respect naps.

Clean hydration nearby: bowl/fountain + absorbent mat .

5) Quiet activities & enrichment

  • Useful chewing : top 7 of our toys (coffee wood, textured balls, calming plush).
  • “Thinking gently” games : dispensing ball 10–15 min, progressive difficulty.
  • Sniffing : scattering treats on a mat (natural calming activity).

Frequency: 1–2 calm sessions/day (10–15 min) are often sufficient to reduce overall tension.

6) Common mistakes to avoid

  • ❌ Placing the basket in the middle of the passageway → fragmented sleep.
  • ❌ Too much stimulation (noisy toys/screen/visitors) near the space.
  • ❌ “Forcing” the dog to stay in the basket: it must choose to go there.
  • ❌ Punishing in the resource space: it loses its security value.

FAQ – Calming Corner

My dog ​​won't go in his basket, what should I do?
Reward each approach (treats placed inside), quiet toy to chew only there, regular rituals after walk/meal.

Basket or cage/kennel?
The kennel can help if desensitized positively (never through punishment). Start with the calming bed; add the kennel if a more structured environment is needed.

How many calming spaces are there in the house?
One main room is sufficient. In large houses, a secondary room can be useful (upstairs/quiet room).

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