Anxious Dogs Can Be Calmed by Exercising With Other Pups

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Here's why your pooch needs an exercise buddy

Anxious dogs can be calmed by exercising with other pups, new research has found.

The study, which was conducted at Tufts University in Massachusetts and the Centre for Canine Behaviour Studies in Connecticut, took into consideration 1,308 dogs who had at least one form of anxious or fearful behaviour.

Of the over 1,000 dogs that were studied, 273 of them had generalised anxiety disorder — a near-constant fear that can have a significant impact on their quality of life.

The researchers were pleased to see that the dogs who suffered from this disorder, who also took part in the sporting activities, were more likely to improve and get better. The study said: "Dog-sporting activities were highly effective for treating generally anxious dogs, with just over three times the odds of improvement".

Examples of sports that dogs can take part in and enjoy together were Flyball – a type of relay race with teams of dogs – as well as agility courses and something that they called 'Canine Freestyle'. This is a type of choreographed dance routine that pets could learn with their owner.

Professor Nicholas Dodman, a vet and one of the authors of the study said dogs "especially benefit from activities that feed into their natural instincts".

For example, a sheepdog was helped enormously after they started sheep-herding classes. "The dog was a nervous wreck," said Professor Dodman. "I suggested to the owner to take him to sheep-herding classes. After several trials herding real sheep he settled right down. His anxious behaviour was gone."

But why has social exercising helped so much? "The reason for the beneficial effect of engaging in sporting activities may be because of the physiological benefits of mobilisation but also the psychological aspects of social integration, accomplishment and enjoyment," researchers told The Mail Online.

So, if your four-legged friend has been struggling with anxiety or displaying fearful behaviour, it may be time to think about integrating some kind of exercise, either with yourself or other pups.

This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.

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Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. And at just £8.50, it's a real steal buy.

Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.

A great option for larger breeds, this tough yet elastic dog toy is ideal for particularly aggressive chewers. The dual handles also mean that you can use it to play with your dog too.

One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...

Does your pup love to play fetch? Well, this dog toy is one of the most durable styles around — and will aim to stand the test of time, no matter how much it is used.

Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.

Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.

This is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil.

This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.

Perfect for aggressive chewers, this bright green bone toy helps to help clean teeth and control plaque, while providing endless hours of fun.

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Thanks to the built-in rope, owners can throw this ball further for their pups to chase. It is used by the K-9 police as well as the Military Working Dog Teams, so it's both tough and durable. Brilliant if you want to train and motivate your dog.

Perfect for fetch and interaction with your dog, this ball has been made with extra-tough rubber to stand the test of time. Thanks to its soft and unique surface, the ball will also keep your dog's gums healthy.

Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.

This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun.

This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.

Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material will not wear down dogs' teeth.

With a mixture of strong ropes and a soft middle section, this is a great option for dogs who love to play.

This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!

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This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs.

Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.

This durable pineapple toy has been built to last, helping to solve destructive chewing, teething, dental health, boredom, separation anxiety, training, and exercise.

We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.

In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's just over £4.

This durable Bark Bone is infused with real bacon and is perfect for even the toughest chewers. Its non-toxic and non-allergenic materials mean its safe for your pup to enjoy.

Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.

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