Anxiety In Dogs: Types, Causes & How To Cope

Is your dog anxious or fearful? 

Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety, and it’s more common than you might think. But what exactly causes anxiety in dogs, and how can you recognise the symptoms? 

Whether your dog is shaking at the sound of thunder, chewing furniture when left alone, or avoiding new people, understanding the different types of anxiety and how to help them cope is key. 

In this article, we’ll dive into the types of anxiety in dogs, common causes, ways to manage their stress, and when it’s time to seek professional help. So, if you're wondering how to calm your anxious dog and give them the peace they deserve, keep reading!

What Is Dog Anxiety? 

Dog anxiety occurs when your dog feels overly stressed or fearful, impacting their behaviour and well-being. While fear is a natural response to a specific threat (like a loud noise or unfamiliar person), anxiety is more generalised and often happens without a clear trigger. It can result in behaviours like whining, shaking, or destructive actions. 

Anxiety in dogs is commonly triggered by changes in routine, being left alone, or past traumatic experiences. Unlike fear, which is temporary, anxiety tends to linger and affect your dog over time. Recognising the signs early and addressing the root causes can help your dog feel more comfortable and secure.

Types of Anxiety in Dogs

Dogs can experience different types of anxiety, each affecting their behavior in unique ways. Understanding these types can help you identify the root cause of your dog’s anxiety and take the right steps to help them feel more at ease. Here are the most common types of anxiety in dogs:

• Separation Anxiety: Occurs when dogs are left alone and may result in destructive behaviour or excessive barking

• Social Anxiety: Happens when dogs are fearful of other people or animals, often showing signs of nervousness or aggression

• Noise Anxiety: Triggered by loud sounds like thunderstorms or fireworks, causing dogs to shake or hide

• Travel Anxiety: Affects dogs who get anxious in cars or unfamiliar places, leading to drooling, vomiting, or restlessness

• Generalised Anxiety: Dogs feel constantly uneasy, showing signs like panting, pacing, or hyper-vigilance

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What Are Some Common Causes of Anxiety in Dogs?

There are quite a few reasons why your dog might be anxious. It could be something as simple as a change in routine, or it might stem from deeper issues like past trauma or health problems. Every dog is different, and understanding the root cause of their anxiety is key to helping them feel more at ease. Let’s break down some of the most common causes:

Environmental Changes

Big changes in a dog’s environment, like moving to a new house, a new family member, or even a change in your schedule, can really throw them off. Dogs love routine, so when that gets disrupted, it can lead to stress and anxiety.

Trauma or Past Abuse

Unfortunately, some dogs come from difficult backgrounds. If they’ve experienced abuse or trauma, they might be more prone to anxiety. Certain triggers, like loud noises or certain people, could bring back bad memories, causing them to feel fearful or nervous.

Health Problems

Sometimes anxiety is caused by physical discomfort or illness. Dogs can’t tell us when they’re in pain, so they might show it through anxiety-related behaviour. If your dog’s anxiety seems sudden or out of the ordinary, a trip to the vet can help rule out any health problems.

Genetics and Breed-Specific Traits

Some breeds are just more prone to anxiety due to their genetics. For example, smaller breeds like Chihuahuas or high-energy breeds like Border Collies are more likely to experience anxiety. If your dog has these traits, they might be naturally more sensitive or nervous.

Lack of Socialisation

If a dog wasn’t properly socialised as a puppy, they might struggle with anxiety in new situations. Dogs need to be exposed to different environments, people, and other pets when they’re young so they learn how to cope with new experiences. Without this exposure, they can become fearful and anxious in unfamiliar settings.

What Are Some Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs?

When a dog is feeling anxious, they might show some noticeable signs. These can range from physical reactions to changes in how they behave. Spotting these early can help you get your dog the support they need. Here are some common signs to watch for:

• Shaking or trembling

• Constant barking or howling

• Chewing furniture or other destructive behaviour

• Pacing around restlessly

• Hiding or seeking comfort

• Panting or drooling a lot

• Loss of appetite

• Avoiding people or other pets

• Accidents in the house

• Wide-eyed or dilated pupils

How Can I Help My Dog Cope with Anxiety?

Managing your dog's anxiety doesn’t happen overnight, but with a little patience and some small changes, you can help them feel more secure and relaxed. Dogs, just like people, thrive in environments where they feel safe and understood. If you're wondering how you can ease their anxiety, here are six ways to get started:

1. Create a Calm Environment

One of the simplest things you can do is create a safe, quiet space for your dog where they can retreat when they’re feeling overwhelmed. This could be a cozy corner with their favourite bed or blanket, or a crate where they feel secure. You can even try using calming pheromone diffusers or sprays, which help mimic natural scents that make dogs feel calm. The goal is to provide them with a place where they can relax and feel safe.

2. Provide Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Dogs need exercise—not just to stay healthy, but to burn off excess energy that can contribute to anxiety. A long walk, a game of fetch, or even a good play session can help reduce stress. 

Mental stimulation is just as important. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or basic obedience training can keep their mind busy and distract them from anxious thoughts. The more you engage both their body and mind, the calmer they'll feel overall.

3. Try Behavioural Modifications Training

If your dog’s anxiety is severe or difficult to manage on your own, working with a professional might be the solution. Engaging a canine behavioural trainer or certified dog behaviourist can be incredibly helpful in addressing the root cause of your dog's anxiety. These professionals are trained to identify specific behaviours that contribute to stress and can provide customised training plans to help your dog cope with anxiety in real-life situations. 

They’ll use positive reinforcement and proven techniques to work with your dog, creating a structured environment where your dog learns how to respond calmly to triggers. A trained expert can also give you valuable insights into how to manage and prevent anxiety in the long run. It’s a great option if you need extra support or have tried other methods without success.

4. Consult a Veterinarian

If you’ve tried the basics and your dog’s anxiety is still severe, it’s a good idea to talk to a vet. Sometimes anxiety is linked to underlying health issues, like pain or hormone imbalances, that might be contributing to their behaviour. A vet can help identify any underlying causes and create a tailored treatment plan for your dog.

If your dog’s anxiety makes going to the vet difficult, Pawkit offers housecall vet services. They’ll come to you, reducing the stress of travel and making your dog feel more comfortable in their own space.

Alternatively, teleconsultation is another great way to get professional advice. With behavioral teleconsultation, the vet can still observe your dog’s behavior remotely and suggest ways to help. They can give you insights into treatment options, recommend exercises, or even suggest medication if needed. Whether it’s at home or online, reaching out to a vet can help you get the right support for your dog’s anxiety.

5. Administering Medications

For some dogs, anxiety might be more than just situational—it can be a chronic issue. If that's the case, medications can help manage the symptoms and give your dog some relief. Your vet may prescribe anti-anxiety medications or natural supplements that work alongside behavioral training. It’s not a cure-all, but it can definitely make the process of managing anxiety more manageable for both you and your dog.

6. Explore Alternative Treatments

If you're looking for something more holistic, there are alternative treatments that can help calm your dog’s nerves. Acupuncture, massage therapy, and even aromatherapy can promote relaxation and ease anxiety. Some dogs really respond well to these natural treatments, and they can be used alongside other methods for a more well-rounded approach.

How Can I Prevent Anxiety in Dogs? 

Preventing anxiety in dogs starts with setting up a stable, predictable environment and giving them the right tools for coping with new situations. By being proactive, you can help your dog feel more secure and reduce the chances of anxiety developing. Here are some simple ways to prevent anxiety in dogs:

• Socialise Your Dog Early: Expose your dog to new people, pets, and environments from a young age to build confidence

• Maintain a Consistent Routine: Stick to regular feeding, exercise, and play schedules to help your dog feel secure

• Provide Positive Experiences: Make new experiences fun and rewarding, so your dog associates them with positive outcomes

• Avoid Reinforcing Fearful Behaviour: Stay calm and reassure your dog without rewarding anxious behaviors

• Create a Calm, Safe Space: Set up a quiet area where your dog can retreat to when feeling overwhelmed

• Engage in Regular Exercise: A tired dog is a calm dog—regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are key

Dealing with anxiety in dogs can be tough, but with the right approach, you can help your dog feel more at ease and bring back their happy, relaxed self. Whether it’s through creating a calm environment, regular exercise, or working with a vet or professional, there’s always a way forward. 

And remember, if you ever need help, there are services like Pawkit that offer housecall vet visits and teleconsultations to make things easier for both you and your dog. With patience, understanding, and the right support, you can guide your dog toward a calmer, more confident future.