A recent study by the University of Helsinki showed 72% of dogs show at least one form of canine anxiety, especially those acquired during the lockdown period. It’s never nice to see a beloved member of your family in clear distress, and it’s important to remain supportive and patient with them.
Dogs suffering with anxiety will need a safe and quiet space to retreat to, have plenty of comforting toys around to keep them occupied, and will need gentle reassurance.
However, what do you do when you are preparing for a dog-friendly holiday with an anxious pup? Whether your canine companion is afraid of cars, loud noises, humans, or other dogs, there are ways to help your pooch feel at ease when you are off on your holidays.
Within this article, you will discover our top advice for anxious dogs, as well as see our list of serene and secluded cottages that provide the ideal environment for a relaxing break.
Anxiety in Dogs: A Growing Concern
Many dogs show symptoms of anxiety ranging from mild unease to severe distress. Dogs that were acquired during the lockdown have shown a higher propensity for anxiety. This is largely due to the lack of early socialisation opportunities. These dogs are more sensitive to changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, and social interactions. Therefore, it’s crucial for owners to find holiday destinations that cater to their specific needs.
How to ease your dog’s anxiety on holiday?
Firstly, let your pup get used to shorter trips in your car before a long journey. Always make sure your anxious dog has a seat belt harness to help them feel safer when in the moving vehicle. To increase car comfort, you can place a blanket and toys inside and this will also help your furry canine feel calmer and more at ease. If your pet tends to get car sick, contact your vet before your trip who will give you some helpful suggestions for your pup. The journey aside, what else can you do to ease your dog’s anxiety when on holiday?
- Remember to have treats on hand: This way, if you notice your four-legged friend looks uneasy, you can give them a treat to let them know all is okay.
- Try to stick to routine: When at home, your anxious dog is likely used to a certain routine, especially for their food and walks. To ensure they feel as comfortable as possible, try to stick to this routine when you’re away.
- Bring your dog’s food: Make sure you take enough of your dog’s food with you on holiday just in case you can’t find it nearby! Sometimes new food can upset our dog’s stomachs, something neither of you want when you are trying to enjoy your holiday! That’s why it’s always best to introduce them to new food gradually.
- Don’t leave your dog alone in a new place: Avoid leaving your anxious dog alone in your dog-friendly cottages. It’s a new and unfamiliar environment, and this could make your furry friend feel frightened.
- Bring their toys, basket, and bowls with you: If you take some of your dog’s favourite home comforts with you, you can make whichever dog-friendly cottage you choose feel more like home!
Top Cottage Getaways for Anxious Dogs
PetsPyjamas understands that a peaceful and stress-free environment is key to ensuring an enjoyable holiday for anxious dogs. Nervous dogs will feel more comfortable and secure in quieter settings. Whether that be on rural estates, coastal cabins or in treehouses set away from the crowds. Also, many of these properties feature enclosed gardens where pets can feel more secure to play safely.
Below is a handpicked selection of some of the best dog-friendly holiday cottages, treehouses and cabins perfect for a serene getaway – and all available through PetsPyjamas where dogs always stay free.
Glassonby Old Hall, Rowley Estates, the Lake District
Nestled in the heart of Cumbria, this restored Cumbrian longhouse is set in a lovely rural setting with wonderful views of the Pennines. Glassonby Old Hall, which sleeps 8, also has an enclosed garden. This makes the pet-friendly cottage ideal for dogs that need space to relax and explore without overwhelming stimuli.
The Grange, Suffolk
The Grange is a delightful farmhouse on the Wilderness Estate in Suffolk. This pet-friendly cottage sleeps 14 people and features a large family kitchen and open living areas. Surrounded by 5,000 acres of private estate, this charming house provides a truly secluded retreat that’s ideal for families with anxious dogs. The estate’s expansive woodlands and peaceful lakes also make it perfect for dogs that thrive in nature! You’ll love the outdoor barbecue and fireplace that present opportunities for al fresco dining and cosy gatherings together with your canine companion.
Dartmouth Green Cottages, Devon
These lovely pet-friendly holiday cottages are located in a tranquil part of South Devon, offering easy access to quiet beaches and woodland dog walks. All the Dartmouth Green cottages offer a spacious and sunny living space, with a contemporary and tastefully furnished living room. The calm and friendly atmosphere the interior creates is perfect for anxious dogs that need a stress-free environment.
Holly House, Norfolk
A charming Norfolk cottage set in a quiet village, Holly House provides a relaxing atmosphere for anxious dogs that prefer a slower pace of life. It’s a fantastic base for a get together with the whole family. The large enclosed garden also offers ample space for you all, whilst also allowing four-legged friends to roam safely.
Spring Cottage, Cliveden
A picturesque riverside hideaway, the dog-friendly Spring Cottage is a haven for four-legged friends and humans. It can be found nestled within the grounds of five-star hotel Cliveden House with its own private garden. Set on the banks of the River Thames, you and your anxious dog will appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Your pup will especially love the beautiful 376-acres of grounds to explore!
Tree Houses, Chewton Glen
For a luxurious and unique retreat, the treehouses at Chewton Glen provide a peaceful escape high above the forest floor. The secluded setting is perfect for anxious dogs needing a quiet and secure environment. This show stopping selection of beautiful Tree House Suites offer stunning views of the surrounding forest and Solent. Guests are provided with a sense of being immersed in nature throughout their stay. Plus, the cosy and contemporary environment of the Tree Houses is sure to help anxious dogs feel at ease .
Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard, Isle of Wight
Pinkmead Estate is a sheltered riverside retreat in the Isle of Wight. This dog-friendly paradise is set amidst a private vineyard, offering an exclusively quiet retreat for anxious dogs. The expansive grounds encompass beautifully maintained lawns, enchanting woodlands, and private lakes where you can do some rare bird spotting! When you stay at the Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard, you are guaranteed a comfortable retreat for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Dog-friendly holidays for anxious dogs with PetsPyjamas
PetsPyjamas is committed to helping dog owners find the perfect holiday spot where their pets can feel safe, relaxed, and happy. By offering a wide range of dog-friendly accommodation for anxious dogs, we aim to make every holiday an enjoyable and stress-free experience.