Understanding Dog Anxiety

A nervous dog worries often, across many everyday situations. Look for a tucked tail, ears held back, lip licking, yawning, shaking or hiding. A vet check, a predictable routine and gentle, reward-based practice around their triggers are the best places to start.

A 2020 Finnish study of 13,715 dogs found noise sensitivity was the most common anxiety trait. Breeds that showed more anxiety include the Lagotto Romagnolo, Rough Collie, Miniature Schnauzer, Border Collie, Wheaten Terrier and Spanish Water Dog, along with mixed breeds.

Fear-based anxiety is anxiety triggered by a specific fear, such as a situation or sound your dog finds threatening. Signs include trembling, panting, whining and pacing. Behavior modification can help, and a vet can advise when the fear is extreme.

Separation anxiety is the distress some dogs feel when they're left alone. Common signs are barking or howling, destructive chewing, pacing and toileting indoors, usually soon after you leave. Short, gradual practice at being alone helps many dogs, and your vet can help with severe cases.