askHELTIE HELTIEdog® How to Support a Dog from Abroad (with Trauma)

How to Support a Dog from Abroad (with Trauma)

Some dog lovers choose to adopt a dog from abroad. These dogs often had a difficult start and lived on the streets. This means the critical early socialization phase may not have occurred optimally, often resulting in unusual behavior, stress, or aggression. If you choose a dog with such a background, you might wonder: How can I best support my dog?

Stress

11 December '25 • 2 min reading time

A dog from a foreign shelter or rescue has always lost a previous caregiver, whether a parent or owner. Additionally, the dog has likely experienced other traumatic events. Therefore, always approach your dog with empathy and a gentle mindset.

Give Your Dog Time and Stability

First, give your dog time to adjust to the new situation. They need time to get used to their new home, owner, food, and other animals. Try to maintain as stable a routine as possible to prevent triggering anxiety due to changes. Keep the same daily plan for feeding, walks, and sleep. Only when your dog has settled in can you truly assess their character and behavior.

Avoid Triggers Initially

You will soon notice that certain normal actions for us can trigger your dog—such as petting, touching paws, fear of bearded men, or white cars. Don’t try to immediately expose your dog to these triggers. Let things rest and avoid these stimuli. As your dog becomes more comfortable, a behaviorist can help gradually reduce sensitivity to these triggers through training.

Stress and Hormones

Research on chronic stress in dogs shows that social isolation, limited early-life stimulation, early trauma, and weak emotional bonds are linked to behavioral problems and physiological disruptions. Two hormonal systems—the HPA axis and the adrenaline system—play a key role. Environmental enrichment (brain games, sensory stimulation, social interaction) can help reduce stress alongside medications. In some cases, dogs may benefit from specialized EMDR therapy to alleviate trauma.

Managing Stress Behavior

It is less important why a dog behaves a certain way than to identify and record triggers. Together with a veterinarian or behaviorist, you can develop a strategy. Medication may temporarily help reduce stress, and behavior therapy and training are essential for changing responses. Strengthening the bond between dog and owner provides security. Ensure the dog is physically healthy and pain-free before starting behavior training.

The Role of the Gut

Gut health is a significant factor in mammalian behavior. The gut-brain axis means that intestinal issues, such as an imbalanced microbiome, can affect mental health. Conversely, stress can cause digestive problems like ulcers or diarrhea. Certain signaling molecules, plant compounds, and antioxidants can help balance the gut-brain axis.

Supplements to Support Your Dog

A dog with trauma or chronic stress benefits from stability, routine, and healthy nutrition. Herbal blends containing valerian, lemon balm, and hops can help with inner restlessness or irritability, e.g., during loud noises or new situations. Magnesium may also be low, as stressed dogs use more of it. Salmon oil provides antioxidants and essential fatty acids like DHA, supporting resilience to stress.

Sources

Corridan, C.L.; Dawson, S.E.; Mullan, S. Potential Benefits of a ‘Trauma-Informed Care’ Approach to Improve the Assessment and Management of Dogs Presented with Anxiety Disorders. Animals 2024, 14, 459. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14030459

Cunico, Jonas Machado, et al. "Mental disorders in dogs and cats–a literature review." Caderno Pedagógico 22.7 (2025): e16656-e16656. https://ojs.studiespublicacoes.com.br/ojs/index.php/cadped/article/view/16656

Fan, Z.; Bian, Z.; Huang, H.; Liu, T.; Ren, R.; Chen, X.; Zhang, X.; Wang, Y.; Deng, B.; Zhang, L. Dietary Strategies for Relieving Stress in Pet Dogs and Cats. Antioxidants 2023, 12, 545. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12030545****

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