Anxiety in dogs

Canine anxiety is a prevalent emotional state that can significantly impact a dog's quality of life. Recognising and addressing anxiety in dogs is essential for their overall well-being.

Anxiety in dogs is a common but often misunderstood condition that can significantly affect their quality of life. It can manifest in many ways—ranging from restlessness and excessive barking to more severe behaviours like destruction or withdrawal. Anxiety is typically triggered by factors such as separation, loud noises, or changes in routine.

Recognising the signs early and taking steps to manage anxiety through behaviour support, environmental changes, and, when needed, professional help is essential to ensuring dogs feel safe, secure, and happy in their daily lives.

What is anxiety exactly?

In the realm of pet behaviour, the terms "anxiety" and "fear" often overlap, yet they carry distinct meanings crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Anxiety is different from fear because it’s caused by worry about something that might happen, not something that’s happening right now.

Anxious dogs and cats exhibit a spectrum of behaviours signalling their distress.

Common causes of anxiety in dogs

Identifying the root cause of anxiety is vital for effective management. Common triggers include:

Separation from owners: Dogs may develop anxiety due to over-attachment, particularly those that have been rehomed multiple times.
Specific events: Incidents like fireworks can initially cause fear, which may evolve into anxiety if the dog cannot locate or control the source of the disturbance.

What are the tell-tale signs of anxiety in dogs?

Anxious dogs and cats exhibit a spectrum of behaviours signalling their distress.

Behavioural changes: Dogs experiencing anxiety may exhibit alterations in their behaviour patterns. This can include increased arousal levels, hyper-vigilance, hesitation or inhibition in completing tasks, restlessness, and heightened locomotor activity (moving the body through space from one location to another). Additionally, they may display behaviours such as pacing, excessive barking, or compulsive actions.
Physiological symptoms: Anxiety often manifests in physiological responses in dogs, including increased heart rate and respiratory rate. Excessive panting, trembling, or shaking are common physiological signs observed during anxious episodes.
Changes in interaction: Anxious dogs may demonstrate differences in their social interactions. They might display over-attachment behaviours towards their owners, seeking constant reassurance or physical contact, especially during stressful situations.
Toileting issues: In cases of separation anxiety or heightened distress, dogs may exhibit inappropriate toileting behaviours indoors, such as urinating or defecating inside the house. This can serve as a visible indicator of their emotional state.
Destructive behaviour: Anxiety can lead to destructive behaviours in dogs, such as chewing furniture, digging, or scratching excessively. These actions often occur as a coping mechanism or outlet for their heightened emotional arousal.
Withdrawal and Avoidance: Some anxious dogs may exhibit withdrawal behaviours, seeking isolation or hiding in secluded areas. They might also display avoidance behaviours, attempting to escape or avoid situations that trigger their anxiety.
Excessive vocalisation: Anxious dogs may vocalise excessively, manifesting as whining, howling, or barking beyond typical communication needs. This vocalisation can serve as an expression of their distress or an attempt to seek attention or relief.

What to do if you think your dog has anxiety?

To all the pet owners who find themselves navigating the complex world of canine anxiety, we commend you for your unwavering dedication to your companion animal’s welfare. Recognising the signs of anxiety in your dog is a testament to your attentiveness and empathy as a guardian.

It's essential to acknowledge that while your love and concern are invaluable, you can't be expected to be the sole expert in deciphering and managing your dog's anxiety. Treating anxiety-related behaviours requires a nuanced understanding of their underlying triggers. Seeking help from trained professionals is a proactive step towards ensuring the best possible care for your beloved pet.

Veterinarians and Certified Animal Behaviorists play a pivotal role in diagnosing, treating, and managing anxiety-related concerns in pets. Their guidance, alongside tailored treatment plans, empowers pet owners to address behavioural challenges effectively. Once diagnosed with the help of a trained professional, a comprehensive approach involving medication and physical activity proves most effective in managing canine anxiety, as untreated anxiety can have long-lasting mental and physical health complications.

Managing Canine Anxiety

Depending on the root cause of anxiety, there are various strategies that can be used to help your animal’s specific needs:

Behaviour modification techniques: Implementing behaviour modification techniques based on positive reinforcement can help dogs learn to cope with anxiety triggers. Desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques gradually expose the dog to anxiety-inducing stimuli in a controlled manner while pairing them with positive experiences, such as treats or play, to change their emotional response.
Environmental enrichment: Enriching the dog's environment with toys, puzzles, and interactive activities can provide mental stimulation and alleviate boredom, which can contribute to anxiety. Additionally, creating safe spaces, such as cozy dens or quiet retreats, where the dog can retreat during stressful situations can help them feel more secure.
Regular exercise and mental stimulation: Engaging in regular physical exercise and mental stimulation through activities like walks, play sessions, and training exercises can help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and releasing endorphins, which are natural stress-relievers.
Consistent routine: Establishing a consistent daily routine for feeding, exercise, playtime, and rest can provide dogs with a sense of predictability and security, reducing anxiety related to uncertainty or change.
Nutritional support: Some dietary supplements and specially formulated foods contain ingredients that may help support canine mental health and reduce anxiety. Consultation with a veterinarian can help identify appropriate dietary interventions for anxiety management.
Medication: In severe cases of anxiety or when other interventions are insufficient, prescription medications may be necessary to manage symptoms. Medications can help alleviate anxiety and improve the dog's overall wellbeing. However, medication should always be used under the guidance of a veterinarian and as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

If you have specific concerns, we recommend speaking with your vet or reaching out to an accredited professional to assist you and your animal. You can see a list of Companion Animal New Zealand’s accredited professionals here.

With patience, understanding, and the right support, anxious dogs can feel safe again and enjoy a calmer, happier life.