Your Husky appears to be nervous…
Something with them is not fine but you can’t put your finger on it.
Their ears are flat, and the tail is between the legs. Plus, your dog acts jumpy.
Why is this happening? And how can you ensure your fur baby is back to their calm self?
Check out this article and discover:
- 9 possible reasons why Huskies act like that.
- Whether your emotions could affect their behavior or not.
- Things you should do and shouldn’t do to dogs who are feeling anxious.
- And a lot more…
Table of contents
Why is my Husky so nervous?
Your Husky is so nervous because of their ability to sense bad weather, negative experiences, a phobia they developed in the past, lack of socialization at an early age, or due to separation anxiety, sudden change in their environment, wrong use of rewards, a sickness or aging, or your behavior.
9 reasons why your Husky is so nervous
#1: They can sense something
“Aah. I can feel a strong storm coming.
I must hide…”
It might be spooky, but your Husky can tell if the weather’s going to be bad or not.
Like other animals, dogs are able to sense natural disasters way faster than humans.
VCA said they can detect rain when the pressure in the atmosphere falls down. And that they can also feel thunders and earthquakes through the ground.
So, if you have plans outside and they suddenly freak out and pace a lot, think twice before going out. They might also try to hide and yap when they sense this.
Now, you’ll have a clue on what they’re trying to say next time they do this.
#2: Bad experiences
It’s sad. But dogs who had negative encounters can also result in this behavior.
This is common to dogs who got abandoned by their previous parents. Or those who had a rough time in a cramped shelter or a breeding place.
Those things have caused great fear to them. And they may not even enjoy doing things that a normal dog would love (e.g. being cuddled, strolling in the streets).
For instance, you observed that your Husky is afraid of being petted. Or touched in a specific area. It might be due to mistreatment in the past by other people.
Seeing other doggies may also scare them if they had an awful experience with one.
Read next: 9 Reasons Why Your Husky Doesn’t (Like To) Cuddle + 5 Tips
#3: Your Husky has a phobia
“You’re getting the car ready.
Oh no…are we going to that scary place again??”
Think about this. Are there things or situations that make your Husky tremble and hide?
Most dogs are usually afraid of loud noises. Like the sounds of thunder, fireworks, and large vehicles. They might even dig a hole trying to escape.
They may also develop a fear of an object. Like a kid’s toy that squeaks when pressed, an umbrella, or even a water hydrant in front of your house.
Car rides and trips to the vet can also be the cause of this behavior.
You might not notice it. But things that seem normal to you, might be scary for your furry buddy.
Trivia: Experts conducted a research and said that out of 135 dogs observed, 78.5% were scared of veterinary clinics. And that males and dogs under 2 years of age were not afraid as much as the females and older ones.
Hmm. Do they only act like this around other people or dogs?
It might be because they don’t have many experiences with them in the past.
Let me ask you one more thing…
What would you do if a tall, big stranger suddenly appears at your house?
You’ll be scared, don’t you? And that’s what they feel.
Your pooch may also be fearful of other dogs. And it will surely be a growling contest when they see one.
This could’ve been prevented if they’re socialized when they’re young. And spent time with different people or animals at an early age. Or visited various places other than your house.
But, don’t lose hope. There are still ways to work on this behavior.
Although they may take a lot of your time and patience.
#5: Your Husky wants you to stay
“Being alone is scary!”
Oh no. Huskies are more prone to separation anxiety than any other dogs.
It’s because of their friendly and loving nature. And these good traits can also become their weakness.
Most dogs will have a hard time seeing their dog parent leave the house. Or even if they’re out of their sight for a bit.
Some may become clingy. To the extent that they want to be right next to their owner every minute of the day.
#6: Sudden changes
Has it been a while since you’ve brought home your Husky?
If it’s not too long, maybe they’re still adjusting to their new home.
Even we, humans, get flustered when faced with an unexpected situation. Or when meeting new people.
Now, imagine how hard it is for dogs. Living in a new place is a big change. Not to mention a different set of people too.
They might be used to the places and people in the shelter. And they already have a routine every day. And it makes them so confused now that they don’t know what to do.
So they just hide and avoid you. While observing everything from a distance.
#7: Your Husky got it all wrong
Do you give your Husky treats or toys whenever they get nervous?
Oh-oh. They must’ve learned to act that way to get lots of affection and rewards.
I know. You’re only doing it to comfort them and redirect their attention.
But sadly, it’s the opposite. It’ll make them think that by acting anxious, they’ll get what they want.
#8: Your Husky might be sick
Did your Husky become skittish all of a sudden?
They’re not like that before. And you can’t remember anything that might’ve caused it?
It might be because they’re getting old or they have a sickness.
A study reported that 62% of 50 dogs with CCD or Canine Cognitive Dysfunction displayed anxiety.
These dogs will have memory loss. So they’ll suddenly feel unsafe with familiar surroundings.
They might also be in discomfort. So check if they’re scratching a part of their body. For example if it’s their ears, it might be an infection.
#9: Your behavior
“Your nerves make me jumpy!”
Yes, as said before, dogs’ senses are a hundred times better than ours. That they can even see and smell what we’re feeling inside.
So, it’s possible that they feel anxious because you also feel the same. And you’re doing things that add to their anxiety.
Why?
Because dogs can absorb those negative energies. They can also use them to adapt to similar situations.
For example, you’re so tensed about getting your dog groomed by other people. And it’s visible that you’re worrying too much because you keep on pacing back and forth. Your facial expression also says it all.
Your dog will sense it based on your looks and actions. They’ll also sniff you to know what’s happening.
And from then on, they may also start to feel that way every time you visit the shop.
Reading tip: 5 Reasons Why Your Husky Doesn’t Like You + 3 Tips
5 tips on what to do if your Husky is very nervous
#1: Make them conquer their fears
This might sound odd. And you might think this will be too much on your Husky.
But no, it’s not.
In fact, this will greatly help in getting rid of their fears.
To do this, you must know first the things or situations they’re scared of. Like if they become so tense when children are playing outside. Or if they act weird in front of mirrors.
If you’re done, you can now do the next step. And that’s exposing them to what they fear. But…do it with a less intense example of it.
So, if they’re scared of kids playing outside, don’t go near them immediately. Stay in a place where they can still see the children. But far enough to make their sounds weaker or less scary to them.
Maintain a distance where your dog doesn’t feel nervous. And then, as time passes by, they’ll get used to it.
When they do, try moving a little a bit closer and observe their reaction. If they’re doing well, slowly move closer and closer until they won’t find them scary anymore. And learn that there’s no reason for them to be.
#2: Use rewards in a right way
Now, this step comes hand in hand with the previous one.
While you’re staying a safe distance from what makes them skittish, give them rewards. It can be their favorite treats or toys. Give them a lot of praises as well.
Let’s say they’re also afraid of getting inside the bathroom. Get your dog to stand in front of it and close the door.
While they’re looking at it, give them lots of treats. Then open the door for a bit – not too wide. And offer them a toy and shower them with rub bellies.
Slowly push the door and keep on rewarding them until they don’t even notice that it’s already open.
By doing this, you’ll teach your dog that there’s nothing to be afraid of when they see those things again. And they’ll expect good things to happen – time for some treats.
#3: Build their confidence
To do this, you first need to gain your Husky’s trust – as their parent and a leader.
How?
Keep on offering them food. But don’t rush them or yell, it will scare them off.
Once they’ve opened up a bit, you can start teaching them basic commands. Like making them sit before giving them meals.
In this way, you’ll be establishing your relationship. And that bond will be like their security.
It’ll reassure them that they have their humans. And that as long as you aren’t afraid of something, they wouldn’t be too.
This is for dogs who were newly adopted or puppies who are still in the adjustment stage.
#4: Set-up a routine
How you start and end your day is usually based on a schedule you made for yourself.
So how about making one for your Husky?
Vets say dogs become stressed due to unpredictability. It means that they don’t have a clue what’s going to happen every single day.
And their life doesn’t have a pattern they can easily follow. And that’s what makes them so anxious.
Well, imagine if you don’t know when you’ll be eating every time or when you’ll be taking a bath. You’ll get startled by things and get so worried about when you’ll be having your basic needs.
So, having a routine will help them worry less and enjoy their lives more.
Have consistent feeding, bathing, pooping, and sleeping hours. Include daily training sessions and playtime as well.
It’s recommended to stick to a plan that will work for both of you. And it doesn’t always need to be perfect. Just provide an outline of what needs to be done daily and you’re fine. 🙂
#5: Get them used to your absence
This is for Huskies who have bad anxiety whenever they don’t see their parents even for just a second.
Tire them out a lot
Before going out, make sure that you’ve walked or played with your dog for a long time. You need to tire them out a lot to make them calm.
Avoid getting caught
While you’re getting ready, be sure that you’re out of their sight. Be careful and not give them clues that you’re leaving. Like picking up the car keys or your shoes.
It’ll alarm them and sense what you’re trying to do. Remember, dogs are very smart. Prepare these things ahead.
Also, distract them with toys (dog puzzles and frozen chew toys) that’ll make their minds get working all day.
Before going outside, don’t bid goodbye to your dog. Also, see if you have given them enough food and water. And kept all valuables or fragile things out of reach.
Show your poker face
When you get home, control your emotions. If they’ve destroyed something, don’t punish them. If you missed them so much, avoid showing excitement.
If they still act nervous around you, ignore them. Even if it’s hard. Only give them attention when they’ve completely calmed down.
Get some help
If they still bark and destroy things while you’re away, it’s alright to hire a dog sitter. Or someone you can trust with taking care of your buddy while you’re working on their anxiety.
Tip: Be sure to find out first what items or treats they love before doing this. Or else, your plan won’t work.
#BONUS: Consult an expert
If your Husky still freaks out a lot, you must get the opinion of an expert right away. Especially if it’s affecting their lives so much.
Because some dogs may not eat. And some may lose their energy.
Their heads are always full of worries. And they find it hard to enjoy things they usually do.