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Have you ever noticed your dog acting a little "off" and wondered what's going on? Maybe they're pacing around the house, trembling in a way that doesn't seem to make sense, or just not their usual self. As a pet sitter, I've seen all kinds of dogs go through emotional ups and downs, and one thing I've learned is that dog anxiety is more common than many pet parents realise. In fact, according to a 2020 study from the University of Helsinki, over 70% of dogs display signs of anxiety-related behaviours at some point in their lives.
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But here's the thing—anxiety isn't always a stand-alone issue. It's often a signal of deeper, more complex behavioural problems. As Dr Katherine Houpt from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine explains, "anxiety is used as a blanket description for anything that the dog does that the owner doesn't like". When unaddressed, anxiety can have a significant impact on both the owner and the dog's life. This makes it crucial for any pet parent to recognise and understand the signs and symptoms of anxiety in their dogs. Not only will it improve the dog's well-being, but it will also help to address any underlying problems. If your dog shows some of these symptoms regularly, you should consult a vet or behaviourist for proper guidance. In this blog, we'll cover seven key symptoms of dog anxiety that every pet parent should be aware of.
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Understanding the Causes of Anxiety in Dogs
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While it's essential to recognise the signs of anxiety in dogs, understanding the underlying causes can help you address it more effectively. The most common causes of dog anxiety include:
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Separation Anxiety:
Dogs with separation anxiety experience extreme distress when they are away from their owner or the person they're most bonded with. This can lead to intense emotional responses, including panic, frustration, and mood changes. To cope, dogs may resort to destructive behaviours like chewing furniture, excessive barking, or even self-harm through excessive licking or biting.
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Loud Noises:
Thunderstorms, fireworks, and other loud sounds can trigger significant anxiety in dogs. Noise anxiety is one of the most frequent complaints among dog owners. These loud, unpredictable noises can cause dogs to tremble, pant, or hide as they perceive the noise as a threat. Dogs with a noise phobia may exhibit escape behaviours, try to flee the environment or display agitation like barking, whining, or pacing.
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Changes in Environment:
Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity. Moving to a new home, introducing new pets, or even something as minor as rearranging furniture can make them feel disoriented and anxious. Changes in their environment disrupt their sense of security, and they may show signs of stress, such as pacing, excessive panting, or hiding. Moving to a new home, in particular, is a big transition for dogs as it removes them from the comfort of their familiar surroundings. Other changes, like new family members or the arrival of a new pet, can lead to feelings of insecurity, especially if the dog feels its place in the "pack" is threatened.
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Recognising the Key Signs of Anxiety in Dogs
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1. Trembling or Shivering
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One of the more noticeable signs of anxiety in dogs is trembling or shivering, and it's easy to mistake this for your dog being cold or scared of something specific. However, if your dog is trembling in normal conditions— even when it's warm, or there's nothing obvious to be afraid of—anxiety could be the reason. A study published by Nature found that noise sensitivity, like fear of fireworks or thunderstorms, is the most significant cause of anxiety in dogs and can cause trembling in nearly 40% of them. If your dog trembles during stressful events like these or even without an apparent reason, they may be dealing with a deeper anxiety issue.
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What to Watch For:
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Shivering even in warm conditions
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Trembling in response to loud noises or unfamiliar settings
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2. Excessive Barking or Whining
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Dogs bark to communicate, but when barking becomes excessive, it may be a sign of anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety, for example, often bark, whine, or howl when their owners leave the house. Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioural disorders in dogs. This excessive vocalisation is your dog's way of expressing distress and seeking attention or comfort.
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What to Watch For:
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Barking or whining without an apparent cause
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Howling or whining when left alone
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3. Destructive Behaviour
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Has your dog ever chewed up furniture, torn apart cushions, or scratched doors while you were out? Destructive behaviour can be a clear sign of separation anxiety, especially if it happens when your dog is left alone. Dogs may resort to this as a way to cope with their feelings of fear or loneliness. It's crucial not to punish your dog for destructive behaviour. Dogs with anxiety don't act out of spite; they are genuinely struggling to cope with their emotions. Instead, focus on addressing the root cause and offering comfort and support to help them feel secure even when you're not around.
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What to Watch For:
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Chewing, digging, or tearing objects when you leave the house
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Scratching at doors or windows in an attempt to escape
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4. Pacing or Restlessness
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Anxious dogs often have trouble sitting still. If your dog paces back and forth or seems restless, especially in situations like car rides, new environments, or during thunderstorms, they might be experiencing anxiety. Pacing is a physical manifestation of nervous energy and it's a common behaviour seen in dogs with generalised anxiety.
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What to Watch For:
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Repeatedly walking back and forth in a specific area
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Inability to settle down even in familiar settings
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5. Changes in Body Language
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Body language can tell you a lot about your dog's emotional state. When anxious, dogs often exhibit behaviours like lip licking, yawning, or avoiding eye contact. These subtle cues are easy to overlook but are important indicators of how your dog is feeling. When dogs are scared, they may also hold their tail between their legs or lower their ears. In my opinion, these are easier to notice and are probably the first signs that a dog is fearful or stressed.
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What to Watch For:
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Frequent yawning or lip licking in non-stressful situations
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Tail tucking, flattened ears, or avoidance of eye contact
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6. Loss of Appetite
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Has your dog suddenly lost interest in food or treats? Stress and anxiety can lead to a decrease in appetite. Just like humans, dogs may refuse to eat when they're feeling overwhelmed or stressed. According to the RSPCA, anxiety-induced loss of appetite can occur during stressful events like moving to a new home, visiting the vet, or being left alone.
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What to Watch For:
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Skipping meals or showing disinterest in food
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Refusing treats that they usually enjoy
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7. Avoidance and Hiding
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Many dogs seek refuge in quiet, hidden spaces when faced with overwhelming stress. You may notice your dog hiding under the bed, behind furniture, or retreating to their crate more frequently. This behaviour is particularly common in dogs with noise anxiety or fear of unfamiliar people or environments. According to the American Kennel Club, hiding or avoiding social interaction can be one of the strongest indicators of anxiety in pets.
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What to Watch For:
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Hiding in corners, under beds, or in closets
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Avoiding people or other pets in social settings
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How to Help a Dog with Anxiety
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Now that you know the signs of anxiety, what can you do to help your dog? Here are a few strategies that have been proven effective:
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Behavioural Therapy:
Behavioural modification techniques, such as desensitisation and counterconditioning, can help dogs overcome their fears and gradually change their response to a trigger.
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Consult a Veterinarian:
If your dog's anxiety is severe, your vet may recommend anti-anxiety medication to help manage their symptoms. These medications work by altering the brain's chemistry to reduce feelings of stress and fear.
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Calming Products for Dogs:
Products like anti-anxiety vests and collars, pheromone diffusers, or natural supplements have been shown to reduce stress in dogs.
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Exercise:
Regular physical activity is not only important for your dog’s physical health but also for their mental well-being. Exercise helps burn off nervous energy that can contribute to anxiety. Activities such as long walks, play sessions, or games of fetch release endorphins, which act as natural mood boosters for dogs and can help reduce anxiety levels by keeping your dog physically active and engaged.
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Enrichment Activities:
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise in managing anxiety. Puzzle toys, interactive feeders, or scent work can engage your dog’s mind and prevent boredom, often exacerbating anxiety. Canine Enrichment Specialist Tori Mistick from Wear Wag Repeat recommends calming enrichment games where the dog is rewarded for relaxing instead of stimulating activities that tire them out.
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Conclusion
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Recognising the signs of anxiety in your dog is the first step toward helping them live a calmer, more peaceful life. Whether it's trembling, excessive barking, or hiding, your dog's behaviour is their way of communicating their discomfort. You can make a significant difference in your dog's mental health by being proactive and seeking solutions, such as calming products or professional guidance. However, If you're unsure about your dog's behaviour or need more guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to a veterinarian or a dog behaviourist. And remember, anxiety in dogs is common—but with the right care, it can be managed effectively.
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Every dog is different! What signs of anxiety have you noticed in your pup? Leave a comment below, and let's discuss how we can all support our anxious dogs better.
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