Understanding Dog Anxiety: What Every Pet Parent Should Know
Just as we humans experience anxiety, our four-legged companions can also suffer from this complex emotional state. Dogs communicate their distress differently than we do though, using a sophisticated language of subtle physical and behavioural signals that we must learn to recognise.
Understanding these signs isn’t just about being a good pet parent – it’s about being their voice when they can’t express their struggles in words.
Recent research in canine behaviour has shown that anxiety in dogs is far more nuanced than previously thought. Dr. Karen Overall, a veterinary behavioural specialist, emphasises that anxiety isn’t simply “bad behaviour” but rather a genuine emotional response that requires understanding and proper support.
Let’s explore what leading experts in veterinary behavioural medicine have discovered about recognising and managing anxiety in our beloved pets.
This science-based approach to understanding canine anxiety has revolutionised how we view our pets’ mental health. As Dr. Nicholas Dodman, a prominent veterinary behaviourist, explains, dogs experience many of the same neurochemical changes we do when anxious, making it crucial for us to approach their anxiety with the same seriousness we would our own.
Key signs of anxiety in your dog to watch for:
Physical Symptoms
Let’s start with the more noticeable signs that your beloved dog is experiencing anxiety. Some physical signs to watch out for, include:
- Heavy panting and drooling (even when it’s not hot)
- Trembling or shaking
- Excessive licking or chewing
- Changes in appetite
- Digestive issues
Behavioural Changes
Veterinary expert Dr. Sandra Nguyen points out that seemingly normal behaviours shouldn’t be dismissed either. Watch for:
- Destructive behaviour when left alone
- Excessive barking or howling
- Pacing and inability to settle
- Following owners around constantly
- Urinating or defecating inside despite being house-trained
While these behaviours may be a temporary response to something changing at home, it’s worth keeping your eye on them.
The subtle behaviour changes can be precursors to more intense anxiety, so it’s worth spotting and acting on them early. Animal behaviourist Kate Mornement points out that by acting early, you may very well be able to prevent the anxiety from building and becoming a long-term struggle.
Types of Anxiety
Now you know what to look out for in your dog, awesome, next you want to understand what’s actually going on for your pooch right!
So what are common forms of anxiety we see in dogs?
Separation Anxiety
No surprise here. Most of us have witnessed a dog freaking out when their human leaves, even if it’s just for 5 minutes. Separation anxiety affects approximately 14% of dogs, according to The American Kennel Club.
Fear-Based Anxiety
This can be triggered by:
- Loud noises (thunderstorms, fireworks, etc.)
- Environmental changes
- New people or animals
- Specific situations like vet visits
Social Anxiety
Dogs with social anxiety typically struggle with:
- Meeting new people
- Interactions with unfamiliar animals
- Group situations
- May show aggression or avoidance behaviour
Trauma-Induced Anxiety
Just as with humans, experiencing something traumatic can easily lead to ongoing anxiety. As such, it’s particularly common in rescue dogs or those with difficult past experiences.
A pet with trauma-induced anxiety may get triggered by:
- Sudden movements
- Loud noises
- New people or situations
- Past traumatic experiences
- Fear of abandonment
A 2020 study indicated that over 70% of dogs exhibit at least one anxious trait or behaviour. Understanding these different types of anxiety is crucial so you know how to help your dog or get them the treatment they need.
If you’re interested in what you can do to help prevent anxiety, check out this article by Stephanie Borns-Weil.
Addressing anxiety early is always ideal, though not always possible. At K9ease, we understand that your dog is a wonderfully complex being and that anxiety can have many different roots.
That’s exactly why we offer different cutting-edge therapies and methods to help your dog live the life they deserve.
Understanding Anxiety in Dogs
Autonomic Nervous System Response
When dogs experience anxiety, their autonomic nervous system activates, triggering various physical reactions:
- Increased heart rate
- Rapid breathing or panting
- Excessive drooling or salivation
- Trembling or shivering
- Gastrointestinal issues including diarrhoea
- Frantic sniffing
- Freezing / unwillingness to move
- Excessive grooming
These responses are the body’s way of preparing to face a perceived threat, but when anxiety is prolonged, it can take a toll on a dog’s overall health and well-being.
Professional Treatment Options
According to veterinary behavioural experts, treatment should be tailored to each dog’s specific needs. Dr. Nguyen emphasises that medication alone isn’t the answer – it’s often most effective when combined with behavioural modification.
At K9ease we have found the Safe and Sound Protocol and EFT tapping to incredibly effective, non-invasive treatments for anxiety in pets.
Prevention and Management of Anxiety in Dogs
The prevention of anxiety in dogs is a massive topic we won’t dive into in this post, so here’s just a quick overview.
Animal Behaviour Australia suggests several key strategies:
- Early socialisation during puppyhood
- Creating predictable routines
- Avoiding punishment for anxious behaviours
- Providing a safe space during stressful situations
Remember, anxiety isn’t just “bad behaviour” – it’s a real condition that requires understanding and proper management.
If you notice these signs in your dog, consulting with a professional is the best first step toward helping your furry friend live a happier, more relaxed life.
