Dog Anxiety

By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant.

Dog anxiety is a common condition that affects many dogs and their owners. It is characterized by a state of fear or nervousness that can manifest in various ways, including excessive barking, whining, panting, trembling, and destructive behavior. In severe cases, dogs with anxiety may also experience physical symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Dog anxiety is a prevalent condition, affecting an estimated 14% of dogs in the United States. It can be difficult for owners to deal with, but there are steps that can be taken to help a dog with anxiety. These include providing a consistent routine, plenty of exercise and stimulation, and positive reinforcement training to help the dog build confidence. Medications and other treatments, such as pheromone therapy and behavior modification, may also be helpful in some cases. In severe cases, it is recommended to seek the help of a veterinary behaviorist, dog behaviorist, dog behavior consultant,  or certified dog trainer.

There are several types of dog anxiety, including:

• Separation anxiety occurs when a dog becomes agitated, destructive, or vocal when left alone.
• Noise anxiety: This is characterized by a fear of loud noises such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or construction work.
• Social anxiety: This is a fear of other dogs or people.
• Generalized anxiety disorder: This is characterized by a general state of fear or nervousness that does not have a specific trigger.
• Travel anxiety is a fear of traveling in a car, plane, or other modes of transportation.
• Fear of specific objects or situations: This can include a fear of certain types of people, such as men with beards or children, or a fear of certain objects, such as vacuum cleaners or umbrellas.
• Fear of certain environments: This can include a fear of certain places, such as the vet’s office or groomer.
• Age-related anxiety: This type of anxiety can affect older dogs, who may experience cognitive decline, confusion, and fear of unfamiliar surroundings.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): This type of anxiety can develop after a traumatic experience, such as being in a car accident or being attacked.
• Medical-induced anxiety: This type of anxiety can develop as a side effect of certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy or thyroid disorders.

It’s important to note that some of these types of anxiety can overlap and that a dog can present multiple types of anxiety. Also, some dogs might present symptoms that are not listed here, and it’s important to consult a veterinarian, a professional dog trainer, or a dog behaviorist to help you understand what type of anxiety your dog is presenting.

The causes of dog anxiety can be complex and may include a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For example, a dog that has been mistreated or neglected may develop anxiety as a result of traumatic experiences. Similarly, a dog that has been adopted from a shelter may have anxiety due to uncertainty and lack of familiarity with its new surroundings. Other possible causes of dog anxiety include lack of socialization, changes in the household or routine, and underlying medical conditions.

Signs and symptoms of dog anxiety include:

• Panting or heavy breathing
• Trembling or shaking
• Whining or barking excessively
• Licking or biting at its own paws or body
• Pacing or restlessness
• Hiding or seeking refuge in a specific place
• Urinating or defecating in the house (even if the dog is house-trained)
• Destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture or digging holes in the yard
• Loss of appetite or change in eating habits
• Loss of interest in activities or toys that the dog previously enjoyed
• Difficulty in settling or relaxing
• Excessive shedding or grooming
• Dilated pupils
• Tail tucked between legs
• Avoiding eye contact
• Aggression or biting when approached or touched
• Fearful or cowering behavior
• Constantly seeking attention or comfort from their owner
• Hypervigilance, always alert and ready to react
• Lack of energy or motivation

It’s important to note that not all dogs will show all of these signs, and some dogs may exhibit different signs. It’s important to consult a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to help you understand what signs your dog is showing.

Causes of dog anxiety include:

• Separation anxiety: Dogs with a strong relationship with their owners may experience separation anxiety. This can manifest in various ways, such as excessive vocalization (barking or whining), destruction of property, and elimination (urination or defecation) in the house. Separation anxiety is a common cause of anxiety in dogs. It can be addressed with behavior modification techniques, such as counter-conditioning and desensitization, as well as the use of anti-anxiety medications.
• Past traumatic experiences: Dogs that have been through traumatic experiences, such as physical abuse or neglect, may develop anxiety. These dogs may display signs of fear or aggression towards certain people or situations that remind them of their past traumatic experiences. These dogs may also benefit from behavior modification techniques, as well as the use of anti-anxiety medication. Still, it’s important to work with a professional such as a veterinary behaviorist, to address these issues.
• Genetics: Some breeds of dogs are more prone to anxiety due to their genetic makeup. For example, breeds like the Border Collie, German Shepherd, and Golden Retriever have been shown to have a higher incidence of anxiety disorders. Understanding the genetic predisposition of a particular breed can help in the management and treatment of anxiety.
• Lack of socialization: Dogs that have not been properly socialized during their critical socialization period (3-14 weeks) may be more prone to anxiety. Socialization is the process of exposing puppies to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a positive and controlled manner during this critical period. Lack of socialization can lead to fear and anxiety toward new or unfamiliar people, animals, and situations.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid imbalances or brain disorders, can contribute to anxiety in dogs. It’s important to rule out any underlying medical issues before addressing the anxiety with behavior modification techniques or medication.
• Environmental factors: loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, changes in routine, and lack of physical and mental stimulation can also lead to a dog’s anxiety. Dogs must be exposed to positive and varied experiences and environments and have physical and mental stimulation opportunities to maintain their overall well-being.

It’s worth noting that anxiety in dogs can be a complex issue, and it’s important to work with a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist to identify the underlying cause(s) and develop a treatment plan.

Treatment for dog anxiety can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the anxiety. Some possible treatments include:

• Behavior modification: This involves changing the dog’s behavior through techniques such as counter-conditioning and desensitization. Counter-conditioning involves changing the dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus, while desensitization involves gradually exposing the dog to the feared stimulus in a controlled manner. This can be done with the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist.
• Medication: Anti-anxiety medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), can be used to manage anxiety in dogs. A veterinarian can prescribe these medications, and following the dosage and administration instructions is important. It’s also important to note that medication should be used in conjunction with behavior modification, not as a replacement.
• Pheromone therapy: Pheromones, chemical signals that animals produce, can be used to help reduce anxiety in dogs. Synthetic pheromones, such as Adaptil and Feliway, can be used to mimic the calming pheromones that dogs produce naturally. These pheromones can be administered through sprays, diffusers, or collars.
• Dog anxiety Calming Aids are made from natural ingredients.
• Training and obedience: Teaching basic obedience commands and providing the dog with mental and physical stimulation can help reduce anxiety. Activities such as agility training, scent work, and trick training can help to keep the dog’s mind occupied and also help to build their confidence.
• Environmental enrichment: Providing the dog with a safe and comfortable environment, and giving them plenty of opportunities for physical and mental stimulation, can help to reduce anxiety. This can include providing a quiet and comfortable space for the dog to rest and interactive toys and puzzles that can keep them occupied.
• Diet: Nutrition can play a role in anxiety, so switching to a diet tailored to the dog’s nutritional needs, and avoiding foods that may trigger anxiety, can help improve the overall well-being of the dog.
• Owner education and support: Understanding the underlying cause of anxiety, triggers, and how to provide a positive environment for the dog is crucial for the dog’s well-being. It’s also important for the owner to be aware of their own emotional state, as dogs can pick up on their owner’s emotions.
• Complementary therapies: Some complementary therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, and aromatherapy, have been shown to help reduce anxiety in dogs. These therapies can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as medication and behavior modification.
• Socialization and exposure: Dogs that are exposed to different people, animals, and environments from a young age are less likely to develop anxiety. Socializing a dog with other dogs and people, and exposing them to different environments, can help to build their confidence and reduce anxiety.
• Exercising: Regular exercise can help to reduce anxiety in dogs. This can include taking the dog for walks, runs, or hikes and providing them with opportunities to play and engage in physical activity.
• Training: Training a dog to perform specific tasks can help to reduce anxiety. This can include teaching them to perform tricks, such as shaking hands or rolling over, or training them to assist in tasks, such as guiding the blind or serving as a therapy dog.
• Consistency: Providing a consistent schedule and routine for the dog can help to reduce anxiety. This can include feeding the dog at the same time every day, providing them with regular opportunities for exercise and play, and maintaining a consistent schedule for training and obedience.

It’s important to work with a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist to determine the best course of treatment for a dog with anxiety. Medications and supplements should be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.

It is important to note that each dog is unique and may respond differently to different treatments, that each dog is unique and may respond differently to different treatments. Dog owners must work with their veterinarian and/or a professional dog behavior consultant trainer or dog behaviorist to develop a customized plan that addresses their dog’s specific needs.

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