Now that facemasks have become part and parcel of everyday life, it can be difficult for dogs to get used to. After all, dogs are known for reading human facial expressions and body language, while listening to voice commands, which can be harder to hear underneath a mask.

With this in mind, facemasks can be confusing and frightening for dogs, inducing high levels of anxiety and stress.

The good news is that you can slowly train your dog to get used to facemasks and seeing people wearing them, so when you’re out and about, and, more importantly, need to visit the vets, your dog won’t feel quite as scared. Here’s what you can do.

Get them used to masks

The first step to reducing pet stress associated with facemasks is to slowly get them used to seeing them. Start by showing them the mask. Let them have a good sniff of it. Talk to your dog in a calming manner while they’re investigating the mask. Then, once your dog can see that the mask is safe and harmless, give them a treat.

Putting the mask to your face

Once your dog is familiar with the mask, start putting it close to your face. Put it over one ear, as you gently talk and stroke your pooch. Do this a few times, and once your dog feels comfortable with seeing the mask near your face, put it on for a few minutes. Give them a treat.

Wearing the mask

Start wearing the facemask at home, putting it on for a short while and then taking it off, in various locations throughout the house, and at different times of the day, such as meal times, or playtimes. The key thing is for your dog to make positive associations with the mask so that when they go out into the real world and encounter masked people everywhere, including at the vets, they don’t have any negative connotations.

Once your dog is used to seeing you wearing a mask around the house, try to get other household members to wear a mask around the dog, so your pet will become familiar with lots of other people wearing them. Always talk to your dog in soothing tones when wearing the mask, try to act as natural as possible and recognise when your dog may, or may not, be feeling comfortable with the situation.

Going out

Once your dog is comfortable around you wearing a mask, you’ll feel much more confident taking him or her out and about, and coming into contact with other mask wearers. Don’t forget to reward your dog when they see someone wearing a mask, and if your dog does suffer from anxiety and stress, bear in mind that there are natural calming products available that can put them at ease.

A helping hand

Pet Remedy sprays and wipes are especially useful if your dog suddenly becomes uncomfortable around a facemask wearer, as it contains natural, soothing ingredients that work instantly to calm your pet down. Because the products don’t act like a sedative, they are safe to use and can give you peace of mind when you’re out and about if your dog suddenly starts to feel anxious.

Browse the online shop for a wide range of Pet Remedy solutions.