Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety, which may affect their behavior, health, and overall quality of life. Whether it’s separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or stress from changes in routine, many dogs struggle with anxious feelings. That often leads to destructive behavior, excessive barking, and even physical symptoms like panting, pacing, and drooling. Recognizing the signs of anxiety in your dog is crucial to helping them feel safe and secure.
In this article, we will look at what causes anxiety in dogs, how to spot the symptoms, and some solutions you can use to help them.
Common Causes of Anxiety in Dogs
Separation Anxiety
One of the most widespread anxiety disorders in dogs, separation anxiety occurs when a dog becomes distressed when left alone. Dogs suffering from this condition may bark excessively, destroy furniture, or go to the bathroom in the house. Some breeds, especially those known for their loyalty and attachment to their owners, are more prone to separation anxiety than others.
Noise Phobias
Many dogs have an intense fear of loud noises such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or even household appliances. Noise-related anxiety can cause dogs to tremble, hide, pace, or attempt to escape. Some dogs develop a generalized anxiety disorder over time if they associate loud sounds with danger. Not all dogs are sensitive to the same noises, so you many notice that yours is afraid of the vacuum cleaner, but not thunder.
Social Anxiety
Dogs that have not been properly socialized as puppies may develop social anxiety around new people, other dogs, or unfamiliar environments. This can lead to aggression, hiding, or excessive panting when faced with social situations. Rescue dogs with a history of abuse or neglect are especially prone to social anxiety.
Past Trauma
Dogs that have experienced abuse, neglect, abandonment, or time in shelters may develop chronic anxiety. Even after being adopted into a loving home, these dogs may remain fearful of certain people, objects, or situations due to past trauma.
Changes in Routine or Environment
Dogs thrive on routine, and any major life change—such as moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or a change in the owner’s schedule—can trigger anxiety. Some dogs are more adaptable, while others struggle with even small disruptions to their daily routine.
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs
Recognizing the symptoms of anxiety in dogs is crucial for early intervention. Anxiety can manifest in both behavioral and physical ways, so it’s important to pay attention to any changes in your dog’s demeanor. Below are some of the different symptoms that are common in
Behavioral Symptoms
- Excessive barking or whining – A dog experiencing anxiety may bark or whine constantly, especially when left alone.
- Destructive behavior – Chewing furniture, digging, and scratching at doors are common signs of separation anxiety.
- Restlessness or pacing – A stressed dog may be unable to settle down, constantly moving around the house.
- Hiding or avoiding contact – Some anxious dogs prefer to withdraw and avoid interaction with people or other pets.
- Aggression – Aggressiveness in dogs is ALWAYS associated with anxiety.
Physical Symptoms
- Trembling or shaking – Some dogs will shake when faced with their triggers, such as thunderstorms or unfamiliar environments.
- Loss of appetite – A sudden decrease in food consumption can indicate stress or anxiety.
- Frequent urination or accidents – Dogs with anxiety may urinate more often, even if they are house-trained.
Aggression or Hyperactivity
- Growling or snapping – Anxiety can sometimes lead to fear-based aggression, making dogs more reactive. Aggression is always fueled by anxiety. It is not a natural behavior in well-socialized and trained dogs.
- Jumping and overexcitement – Some dogs express their anxiety through excessive jumping, spinning, or zooming around the house.
By understanding these symptoms, you can take proactive steps to help reduce anxiety in dogs and improve their overall emotional well-being.
How to Calm an Anxious Dog
Helping an anxious dog often requires a combination of training, environmental changes, and sometimes supplements or medication. Here are some effective ways to reduce anxiety in dogs:
1. Establish a Safe Space
It’s best to start by creating a comfortable and secure area for your dog that can help them feel more at ease. A crate, quiet room, or designated spot with their bed and favorite toys can serve as a retreat when they feel overwhelmed. Many dogs benefit from calming beds or weighted blankets, which provide a sense of security. Crates need to be introduced and used correctly to induce soothing rather than anxiety. If you use a crate for punishment, it could actually make anxiety worse.
2. Provide Plenty of Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Next, Regular exercise and playtime are the most important aids to help reduce anxiety. Exercise helps remove excess energy and promotes stress relief. Activities such as long walks, agility training, and puzzle toys can keep their mind engaged and prevent boredom-related anxiety.
3. Use Calming Aids
Some dogs respond well to calming supplements, pheromone diffusers, or anxiety wraps. These aids can provide a sense of comfort and security, especially during stressful situations like thunderstorms or fireworks. Just be sure that any products you purchase are safe and come from reputable manufacturers.
4. Try Behavior Training and Desensitization
Behavioral training techniques such as positive reinforcement and gradual exposure can help desensitize dogs to their triggers. For example, if your dog has noise phobias, playing the triggering sound at a low volume while rewarding calm behavior can help them adjust over time.
5. Stick to a Routine
Finally, it’s important to remember that dogs thrive on predictability. Feeding, walking, and playtime should follow a consistent schedule to minimize stress and uncertainty. If your routine changes, introduce adjustments gradually to help your dog adapt. Alternatively, you can use automated devices, like food dispensers to help keep to a routine.
Training Techniques for Anxiety Relief
Proper training can significantly improve a dog’s ability to cope with stress and anxiety. Here are some effective training methods:
Counterconditioning – Desensitization Training
The first thing to do is Counterconditioning. It involves changing your dog’s emotional response to an anxiety trigger.
Obedience Training
Dogs should not have to figure out how to please you. Getting yelled at can be a major trigger for a dog’s anxiety because they know you are mad, but they do not know how to respond. Basic commands such as sit, stay, and leave can help redirect an anxious dog’s focus and provide them with (and their owner) a sense of control. Training sessions should be short, positive, and rewarding to maintain engagement. From there you can work on more complex commands as well as socialization.
Interactive Play and Distraction Techniques
Engaging your dog in interactive games, scent work, or food puzzles can serve as a distraction from anxiety triggers. Providing a positive outlet for their energy can help prevent stress-related behaviors. A good example of a distraction technique is to start playing fetch if you know something is about to startle them.
Natural Remedies and Supplements for Dog Anxiety
If your dog experiences mild to moderate anxiety, natural remedies and supplements may help provide relief without medication. Here are some options that I recommend:
1. CBD by Ellevet is a well-researched medication designed by veterinarians
CBD products are a safe and natural way to help relieve your dog’s anxiety. However, not all CBD products are created equally, which is why I recommend sticking to trusted brands like Ellevet.
2. Herbal Supplements prescribed by a naturopathic veterinarian
Supplements are available in chews, sprays, or tinctures formulated for dogs.
3. Pheromone Diffusers and Sprays
Adaptil diffusers and sprays release dog-appeasing pheromones, which mimic the natural pheromones a mother dog produces to comfort her puppies. These products can help create a calming environment, especially for dogs with separation anxiety.
4. Calming Treats
Many pet brands offer calming treats infused with L-theanine, melatonin, or tryptophan, which are known for their stress-reducing effects. These are a great option for dogs that experience situational anxiety, such as during vet visits or travel. Royal Canin and Hills Pet Nutrition provide diets with these calming additives.
When to Seek Professional Help for Dog Anxiety
While mild anxiety can often be managed with training, natural remedies, and environmental changes, some cases require professional intervention. If your dog’s anxiety is severe or affecting their quality of life, it may be time to consult a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist.
A veterinarian can rule out any underlying health issues contributing to anxiety. In some cases, they may recommend prescription anxiety medication such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, which can help dogs with severe anxiety conditions.
Professional dog trainers and behaviorists use science-based training methods to address anxiety issues. A certified behaviorist can create a personalized plan to modify anxious behaviors and help your dog feel more confident in stressful situations.
Many veterinarians do not have the time to concentrate on bad behaviors in animals. There are excellent Board Certified Veterinary Behavior Specialists to consult.
If your dog is still experiencing anxiety, book an appointment with vetpettelehealth.com today for a veterinary consultation.
