Is your furry friend suddenly pacing, panting, or hiding under the couch? They might be dealing with anxiety! From separation-related issues to loud noises, dog anxiety has many causes, but there’s plenty you can do to help. In this blog, we will discuss the signs, triggers, and natural + medical ways to calm anxious behavior. Let’s help your pup feel safe again!
Did you know that 72.5% of dogs exhibit anxious behaviors? From thunderstorms to separation distress, anxiety is a widespread yet often misunderstood issue affecting our canine companions. In fact, separation anxiety alone impacts about 20-40% of dogs referred to behavioral specialists in the U.S. But what exactly triggers anxiety in dogs? Is it genetics, environment, or past trauma? And more importantly, how can you help your furry friend feel safer and more relaxed?
In this blog, we’ll talk about the most common types of canine anxiety, explore the physical and behavioral symptoms, and provide science-backed treatment strategies!
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What causes anxiety in dogs?
Dogs can experience anxiety just like people do, and it often shows up through different kinds of behavior issues. Some of the most common causes of anxiety in dogs are:
Separation Anxiety - This is one of the most common types of anxiety in dogs. A dog with separation anxiety may whine, bark, howl, pace, or even have accidents in the house when their owner leaves. Some may chew on furniture or scratch at doors.
Anxiety Due to Resource Guarding - Although resource guarding is generally an instinctual or learned behavior, it can also contribute to anxiety in some dogs. When a dog feels the need to constantly protect food, toys, resting spots, or even a person, the stress of guarding can lead to heightened anxiety over time. Signs may include growling, stiff body language, or defensive aggression when they sense someone approaching their valued possession.
Territorial Behavior and Anxiety - When a dog feels overly protective of their home or space, they might bark, growl, lunge, or snap at people or other dogs who come too close. This usually happens around fences, windows, or doorways.
Noise Phobias and Sound Sensitivity - Some dogs react strongly to noises, especially loud noises or high-pitched sounds. What might just be a small startle for one dog can cause lingering fear in another. Sounds like traffic, phones ringing, car engines, or even a dropped object can set off a sensitive dog.
Cognitive Changes in Senior Dogs - Older dogs may show anxiety-like symptoms due to age-related cognitive decline, commonly known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome. While behaviors such as confusion, restlessness, pacing, panting (especially at night), or seeming disoriented can resemble anxiety, they often stem from changes in brain function rather than anxiety itself. However, these cognitive shifts can still contribute to a dog’s overall stress and unease.
What are the signs of anxiety in a dog?
Every dog has their own personality, so the first step in spotting anxiety is knowing what’s normal for your pup. A relaxed dog usually has soft, open eyes, stands evenly on all four legs, and has a wagging or gently raised tail, and ears that are up and facing forward. Their breathing should also be calm unless they’ve just been playing or exercising.
But when something’s not right, they’ll start showing signs or changes in body language, such as:
- Pacing
- Shaking
- Increased Heart Rate and Panting
- Drooling
- Lip-Licking
- Compulsive Behaviors
- Hypervigilance (enlarged pupils, ear movements, tail tucked under, standing in a frozen stance)
- Hiding or Acting Withdrawn
- Increased Urination
- Diarrhea
How to calm dog anxiety naturally?
Helping your dog feel calm at home doesn’t have to be complicated. The best approach is often the simplest. Creating a calm, predictable environment and helping your dog feel safe can go a long way. Explained below is how you can naturally help your pup feel more relaxed and confident in day-to-day life:
Build Routine and Predictability - Dogs thrive on structure. When they know what to expect, it can ease a lot of their stress. For example, teach your dog to sit before being petted or to offer a paw before getting wiped after a walk. These small actions create a pattern your dog can rely on, making them feel more in control of their world.
Keep Them Moving with Physical Activity - Physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety in dogs. Exercise helps burn off excess energy and releases endorphins, which promote relaxation. If you know a stressful event is coming (like a thunderstorm or guests arriving), try taking your dog for a long walk beforehand. Not only will it tire them out, but it can also reduce their overall anxiety by giving them a healthy outlet for nervous energy.
Teach New Coping Strategies in a Calm Space - Instead of trying to “toughen up” your dog by repeatedly exposing them to their fears, focus on desensitization, gently and gradually helping them become more comfortable with the stimuli that trigger their anxiety. Set up a reward-based training plan where your dog earns treats, playtime, or affection when they handle stressors well. Over time, your dog will learn more positive ways to handle situations that make them nervous.
Prepare for Unexpected Events - Life isn’t always predictable, things like fireworks, visitors, or even the mail carrier can make your dog anxious. That’s why it helps to plan ahead. Create a routine for these moments, like putting your dog in a quiet room or turning on some calming music.
Make the Crate a Comfort Zone - Apart from being a training tool, a crate can also be your dog’s safe space. If your dog is already crate-trained and associates it with rest or mealtimes, it can be the perfect retreat when things get overwhelming. The more your dog sees the crate as their “den,” the easier it will be for them to spend time during stressful situations inside it.
Use Calming Scents & Pheromones - Aromatherapy can be beneficial for anxious dogs. Lavender and chamomile essential oils (properly diluted and used in moderation) have soothing properties. Alternatively, synthetic pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil) mimic the natural calming chemicals mother dogs release to comfort their puppies. Caution: Essential oils can be risky for pets if not properly diluted or if ingested. Consult a vet before using any essential oils.
Create a Calm Plan for Walks - If your dog gets anxious when they see other dogs or people during walks, a backup plan helps. Teach them simple commands like a nose touch or “come to my side” so they know where to go for comfort. You can also keep their mind busy with a quick routine, like sit, lie down, then sit again. It gives them something to focus on besides whatever’s making them nervous. Over time, they’ll learn to look to you for support when something feels off.
How do you treat anxiety in dogs?
For treating anxiety in dogs, there are a few FDA-approved medications that vets commonly prescribe: Clomicalm, Reconcile, and Sileo. These are specifically tested and approved for use in dogs. But in many cases, your vet might also suggest other anti-anxiety medications that are originally meant for humans. These are used "off-label," which simply means they're prescribed in a way not specifically mentioned on the medication's label, but they’re still considered safe and effective when used under veterinary guidance.
Given below are some of the medications that vets often recommend for anxiety in dogs:
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac)
- Amitriptyline
- Clomipramine (Clomicalm)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Buspirone
- Dexmedetomidine (Sileo)
These medications can be helpful, but they work best when paired with behavior modification and a calm, supportive environment. Always talk to your vet before starting any treatment. They’ll guide you on the best options for your dog’s unique needs and make sure the dosage is just right.
Not sure what’s triggering your dog’s anxiety or how to manage it? Book a consultation with Dr.Tail today and get expert advice tailored to your pup’s needs. Because every dog deserves a calm, happy life.