Hey there, compassionate pet parents. Our dogs' mental health is just as important as their physical health. Anxiety is a common problem in dogs, and it can have a major impact on their quality of life (and yours). An anxious dog is not a "bad dog." They are a dog that is suffering and needs our help and understanding. Let's explore the world of canine anxiety.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is the anticipation of future danger or trouble. It's a state of fear and apprehension, even when there is no immediate threat present. This is different from fear, which is a response to a real, immediate threat. For an anxious dog, the world can feel like a very scary and unpredictable place.
Types of Anxiety in Dogs
Anxiety can manifest in several different ways.
- •Separation Anxiety: This is one of the most common forms. A dog with separation anxiety will panic when they are left alone. This is not just a little bit of whining when you leave. This is a full-blown panic attack that can result in destructive behavior, house soiling, or constant barking and howling.
- 1Noise Anxiety/Phobia: Many dogs are terrified of loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, or construction sounds. During these events, they may tremble, hide, pant, or try to escape.
- 2Generalized Anxiety: Some dogs are just anxious in general. They may be fearful of new people, new situations, or new places.
Spotting the Signs of Anxiety
The signs of anxiety can be subtle or very obvious. It's important to learn to read your dog's body language.
- •Destructive Behavior: Especially when left alone (a sign of separation anxiety).
- •Inappropriate Urination or Defecation: In a dog that is otherwise house-trained.
- •Excessive Barking or Howling.
- •Pacing and Restlessness.
- •Subtle "Appeasement" Signals: An anxious dog may lick their lips, yawn, or show the whites of their eyes ("whale eye").
- •Trembling.
- •Hiding.
- •Panting when it is not hot.
- •Aggression: It's very important to understand that fear and anxiety are a major cause of aggression in dogs. A dog that is growling or snapping is often a dog that is scared and is trying to make the scary thing go away.
How to Help an Anxious Dog: Management and Modification
There is no quick fix for anxiety. It takes time, patience, and a multi-pronged approach.
1. Management
The first step is to manage the dog's environment to avoid their triggers as much as possible. For example, if your dog has separation anxiety, try not to leave them alone for longer than they can handle. If they are scared of thunderstorms, bring them into a safe, interior room and turn on some white noise during a storm.
2. Behavior Modification
This is the cornerstone of treatment. The goal is to change the dog's underlying emotional response to their triggers. This is best done with the help of a qualified professional, like a board-certified veterinary behaviorist or a certified professional dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement methods.
- •Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning (DSCC): This is a powerful technique where the trigger is introduced at a very, very low intensity (desensitization), and then paired with something the dog loves, like a high-value treat (counter-conditioning). Over time, this changes the dog's association with the trigger from "scary" to "good things happen."
What NOT to do:
- •Do not punish your dog for being anxious. This will only make their anxiety worse.
- •Do not "flood" your dog. Forcing your dog to "face their fears" by exposing them to a trigger at full intensity will be overwhelming and will backfire.
3. Medical Treatment
For dogs with moderate to severe anxiety, behavior modification alone is often not enough. Their brain is in such a state of panic that they are not able to learn. In these cases, medication can be a lifesaver. It can lower the dog's anxiety to a level where they can start to learn from behavior modification.
- •Daily Anti-Anxiety Medications: Medications like fluoxetine (Prozac) or clomipramine (Clomicalm) are often used for generalized anxiety or separation anxiety. These are given every day and can take 6-8 weeks to take full effect.
- •Situational Medications: For predictable events like thunderstorms or fireworks, your vet might prescribe a fast-acting medication like trazodone or Sileo (a gel that is applied to the gums) to be given just before the event.
Living with an anxious dog can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to build an incredibly strong bond. By being your dog's advocate, managing their environment, and working with professionals on a behavior modification and/or medication plan, you can help your fearful friend learn to feel safe and secure in the world.
Sources & Further Reading:
- •American College of Veterinary Behaviorists - Separation Anxiety in Dogs
- 1VCA Animal Hospitals - Anxiety in Dogs