Understanding and Managing Anxiety in Dogs

In honour of Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, the Reedy Creek Vet team wants to share valuable information about anxiety in dogs. By understanding its causes, prevention methods, and treatments, you can help your pet lead a calmer, happier life.

What is anxiety?

Dog anxiety occurs when a dog feels a sense of impending danger and reacts with fear, even if there’s no clear reason for concern. This anxiety can be situational, like separation anxiety when a dog is distressed by being away from its owner, or more generalised, with signs of anxiety apparent in most situations. 

Why is anxiety in dogs more commonly diagnosed now?

There are two main reasons why we are diagnosing more cases of canine anxiety.

• Firstly, society’s increased awareness of mental health issues has extended to our pets. Since many people now consider their pets as family members, they are more alert to signs of anxiety.
• Secondly, changes in recent years, including reduced socialisation due to the pandemic and lifestyle shifts, have created conditions that may have heightened anxiety in pets.

What causes anxiety in dogs?

A dog’s anxiety can be influenced by its genetics, breed tendencies, and early life experiences. Dogs can inherit anxious traits from their parents, and puppies that don’t receive proper socialisation or face negative experiences early on are more likely to develop anxiety as adults.

How can I tell if my dog has anxiety?

Dogs suffering from anxiety may display symptoms such as:

• Hypervigilance (“jumpiness”)
• Crouched body posture
• A tucked-under tail
• Flattened ears against the head
• Pacing or evasive behaviour
• Panting
• Drooling
• Shaking
• Reduced appetite or symptoms of gut upset

If pushed, anxious dogs may enter “fight or flight” mode, involving escape attempts or aggressive behaviours (e.g. growling, snapping or biting).

Preventing anxiety in puppies

Preventing anxiety starts with choosing a non-anxious puppy and raising them in a secure, socialised environment. Ensure that they encounter new experiences in a positive, calm way without feeling overwhelmed.

Treating anxiety in dogs

If you suspect anxiety in your pet, it’s recommended to consult our veterinary team promptly, so we can start treatment early on to help ensure the best results.

Depending on the pet’s particular condition, we may recommend measures including:

Limiting exposure to any situations that are triggering the pet’s anxiety (e.g. arranging doggy daycare, day boarding, or a pet-sitter temporarily for dogs with separation anxiety that need to be left alone)

• Creating a stable environment with predictable routines of feeding, exercise and training for the pet
• Avoiding any punishment of the pet’s anxious behaviours
• Starting a program of behavioural modification with a qualified behaviourist who utilises positive (fear-free) techniques to “recalibrate” the pet’s response to anxiety triggers and improve their confidence
• Short- and/or long-term anti-anxiety medications

With the right help, many pets with anxiety can show significant long-term improvement.

For more specific advice and support regarding your pet’s behaviour, we’d recommend consulting one of our knowledgeable vets - you can do this by making a booking online or phoning us on (07) 5593 8395.