I have had my dog for 11 years, and she will be turning 12 in a couple of months. For her entire life, she has always been pretty independent, not a big cuddler, and likes her space. She has been this way most of her life and wouldn’t even sleep on the bed, although she did like being under it.
Not too long ago, I started feeling extremely anxious and began experiencing panic attacks. I got diagnosed with chronic anxiety, depression, and panic disorder. Thankfully, I’ve got a great team working with me: a therapist, psychiatrist, and primary care doctor, all communicating and committed to helping me get through this.
I’ve always been anxious, but it got really bad a couple of months ago. Since then, my dog follows me everywhere, sleeps with me every night, and needs to be next to me at all times. She cuddles me and even lays on me, which she has never done before. I’m not sure if she can sense it, smell it, or notice my change in attitude, but her support and presence bring me calm. She is amazing, and I love her so much. Right now, she is the little spoon as I’m writing this. Just wanted to share my appreciation for her.
She definitely can sense it. You are lucky to have her; dogs provide therapy and are often used to treat depression and anxiety. You’ve had what you needed all along. Best of luck to you both
There’s a scientific study that had dogs sniff the sweat of humans who had just watched a horror movie and those who watched a calm movie. The dogs around the horror movie smell exhibited obvious stress signals. They can literally smell our distress, and they often react to calm us in the same way they would with a family member in their pack. She knows you’re going through it, and she’s taking care of you.