Methods of Alleviating Working Dog’s Anxiety

Abstract

As our society evolved swiftly, working dogs are becoming more predominant in assisting people in diverse fields. It's easier to see our loyal friends working hard in places like battlefields, rescuing people, or in airfields, detecting drugs. At the same time, researchers proposed a deeper understanding of animal welfare and people are more concerned about how to enhance the standard of living of working dogs. This report aimed to use the scientific studies of working dogs from the last decade to list both methods of preventing and alleviating working dogs' anxiety. These methods encompass both physical supplements and mental support. We will go through these methods through three main categories: methods to prevent their anxiety, physical items, and measures and reminders for their trainers in their everyday training and life. Utilizing this framework, we were able to assist these dogs who were having anxiety because of us. We benefit from their hard work and, subsequently, are responsible for their trauma. On the other hand, just like the inextricable link between living organisms, these methods may not only serve working dogs but also other animals around us, including your pet. Lastly, prioritizing animal welfare in research and practice will be pivotal to ensure the ongoing relationship between dogs and people as co-workers.