Do Dogs Suffer from Anxiety? Yes, and Here’s How You Can Help Your Furry Friend Feel Better

Dogs. They’re happy tail-waggers and expert nap-takers. But just like us hoomans, they have complex emotions. And yes—dogs absolutely can suffer from anxiety too!

If you’ve ever come home to shredded sofa cushions, heard your pup whine when you grab your keys, or noticed them trembling during a thunderstorm, you’ve probably wondered: Is my dog just being dramatic—or are they really anxious?

Spoiler alert: it’s anxiety. And it’s more common than you might think.

Let’s dive into what canine anxiety looks like, why it happens, and most importantly—how you can help your best friend feel safer, calmer, and more confident in their world.

What Does Anxiety Look Like in Dogs?

Every dog expresses anxiety a little differently, but here are some of the most common signs:

Pacing, trembling, or restlessness

Excessive barking or whining

Destructive behavior (chewing, digging, clawing at doors)

Hiding or clinging more than usual

Accidents in the house (even if they’re house-trained)

Panting or drooling when not hot or tired

Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

Some dogs may show subtle signs, like yawning a lot, licking their lips, or having a furrowed brow. Others might go into full panic mode. And just like people, dogs can have mild anxiety—or experience something closer to a panic attack.

What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are a few common culprits:

Separation Anxiety: This is a big one. Some dogs become extremely distressed when left alone, even for short periods.

Fear-Related Anxiety: Loud noises (like fireworks or thunderstorms), unfamiliar environments, vet visits, or even certain people can trigger anxiety.

Changes in Routine or Environment: Moving to a new home, the addition of a baby or new pet, or even changes in your work schedule can throw your dog off.

Past Trauma or Neglect: Rescue dogs or those with a history of abuse often carry emotional scars that take time and love to heal.

How You Can Help Your Anxious Dog

Here’s the good news: with patience, understanding, and a little creativity, you can help your dog manage—and even overcome—anxiety.

Create a Safe Space

Give your dog a calm, quiet place where they can retreat when they’re feeling overwhelmed. A crate with a soft blanket, their favorite toy, and dim lighting can feel like a cozy den. Some pups like music or a white noise machine, too.

Stick to a Routine

Dogs thrive on predictability. Regular feeding times, walks, and bedtime rituals help them feel secure. If changes are coming, try to introduce them gradually.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

A tired dog is a happy dog! Regular exercise and games like puzzle toys or training sessions keep your dog’s body and brain busy—in the best way. This can reduce stress and anxiety.

Positive Reinforcement

Reward calm behavior. If your dog is afraid of something, don’t force them to face it—help them build confidence slowly, with treats and praise. For example, if thunder scares them, calmly distract them with a treat puzzle during a storm.

Try Calming Products

There are lots of safe options out there:

Calming treats or chews with natural ingredients like chamomile or L-theanine (Try our Laughing Dog Sleep Tight)

Anxiety wraps that provide gentle pressure

Aromatherapy sprays or diffusers with dog-safe essential oils

Always consult your vet before introducing anything new.

Consider Professional Help

If your dog’s anxiety is severe, a vet or veterinary behaviorist can help. In some cases, medication might be recommended—just like with humans, there’s no shame in getting extra support when it’s needed.

And dog trainers who specialise in anxiety can help guide you through desensitization techniques to build up your dog’s resilience over time.

The Power of Presence

Sometimes, just being there helps the most. Your calm energy, gentle touch, and soothing voice mean everything to your dog. They look to you for comfort and reassurance—especially when the world feels scary.

So when they’re anxious, sit with them. Talk to them. Remind them that they’re not alone. They don’t need you to fix everything—they just need to feel safe in your love.

Yes, dogs experience anxiety. But with your support, they can also experience healing, happiness, and trust. The bond you share is powerful—it can calm storms, ease fears, and build a foundation of lifelong comfort.

So whether your pup is a confident fun lover or a sensitive soul, know that your love is the greatest therapy of all. You’re doing a wonderful job—and your dog knows it, too.