Understanding and Managing Canine Anxiety: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

In recent years, an increasing number of dogs have been diagnosed with anxiety, prompting the question: is anxiety more common in dogs, or are we simply becoming better at identifying it? As part of Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, the team at Cammeray Veterinary Hospital aims to shed light on canine anxiety, exploring what it is, what causes it, how to prevent it, and the various treatment options available for pets suffering from this condition.

Anxiety in dogs occurs when they anticipate danger, reacting fearfully even when no immediate threat is present. This reaction might be situational, such as separation anxiety, where a dog becomes distressed when left alone, or it may be generalised, manifesting as persistent anxiety regardless of circumstances.

Dogs suffering from anxiety may display a wide range of symptoms that indicate they are in a constant state of heightened alertness, and these can impact their quality of life. Anxiety can be caused by many factors, including genetics, socialisation, and environmental triggers, and if left untreated, it can lead to chronic behavioural problems and physical health issues.

The increase in diagnoses of canine anxiety can be attributed to two main factors: a greater awareness of mental health issues and changes in society that affect dogs’ daily lives.

1. Increased Awareness: As society has become more aware of mental health issues in both humans and animals, there has been a growing recognition of anxiety in pets. As pets are increasingly regarded as family members, pet owners are more attuned to changes in their behaviour, including signs of anxiety.

2. Changes in Socialisation and Lifestyle: The COVID-19 pandemic has played a significant role in the rising incidence of anxiety in dogs. With fewer opportunities for socialisation during the lockdowns, many dogs missed crucial experiences that help them build confidence and resilience. In addition, some breeds that tend to be more sensitive and prone to anxiety have become more popular, contributing to the rise in anxious behaviours. Furthermore, modern lifestyles, with their fast-paced routines and limited time for exercise or mental stimulation, can exacerbate anxiety in dogs.

A dog’s temperament is influenced by a combination of factors, including their breed, genetics, and early life experiences. Anxiety can develop due to a variety of reasons:

• Genetics: Anxiety is moderately heritable, meaning that anxious parent dogs are more likely to pass on these traits to their puppies.
• Negative Early Experiences: Puppies that experience neglect, abuse, or a lack of positive socialisation during their critical development period (usually up to 16 weeks of age) are at higher risk of developing anxiety later in life.
• Lack of Socialisation: Insufficient exposure to new people, environments, and other animals during puppyhood can leave a dog unprepared to deal with unfamiliar situations, increasing the likelihood of anxiety.

Anxiety in dogs can manifest in a variety of ways. Common symptoms of anxiety include:

• Hypervigilance: Your dog may seem overly alert, jumpy, or easily startled.
• Crouched Posture: A dog that is anxious may have a tense body and a crouched posture.
• Tail Tucked Under: A frightened dog may tuck its tail tightly between its legs.
• Flattened Ears: Anxiety may cause your dog to flatten its ears against its head.
• Pacing or Evasive Behaviour: An anxious dog may pace back and forth or attempt to escape from stressful situations.
• Panting and Drooling: These physical signs can indicate that your dog is in distress.
• Shaking or Trembling: Anxiety can cause involuntary trembling or shaking in dogs.
• Reduced Appetite: Dogs suffering from anxiety may lose interest in food or show signs of digestive upset.

In more severe cases, anxiety can cause a dog to enter “fight or flight” mode, where they may exhibit aggressive behaviours like growling, snapping, or biting. This is often seen in dogs with severe separation anxiety or fear-based aggression.

Preventing anxiety in puppies begins with careful selection and proper socialisation. Here are a few steps to help ensure your puppy grows up to be a confident and well-adjusted adult:

1. Choosing a Confident Puppy: When purchasing a puppy, it’s important to meet both the puppy and its parents to assess their temperament. Choose a puppy from a litter where the parents exhibit calm and confident behaviours.

2. Early Socialisation: Proper socialisation is key to preventing anxiety in puppies. Expose your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a positive and controlled manner, making sure not to overwhelm them. This helps them learn how to cope with new situations and builds their confidence.

3. Safe Socialisation: It’s important to socialise your puppy in a safe and appropriate way, especially before they complete their vaccination course. Your vet can advise on the best methods to socialise your puppy during this critical window.

By focusing on these steps, you can increase the chances of your puppy growing into a confident, well-adjusted adult dog, which is less likely to suffer from anxiety.

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from anxiety, it’s important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. Early intervention is key to ensuring that your dog receives the right treatment and support. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the anxiety and the specific triggers, but may include the following:

1. Environmental Adjustments

Creating a calm and predictable environment is crucial for an anxious dog. Dogs with anxiety often feel more secure when their routines are consistent and they have a safe space to retreat to. Strategies may include:

• Predictable Routines: Keeping a regular schedule for feeding, exercise, and play can help reduce anxiety in dogs by providing them with structure.
• Safe Spaces: Create a quiet, comfortable space where your dog can retreat when feeling anxious. This space should be free from loud noises and distractions.
• Separation Management: For dogs with separation anxiety, it may be helpful to gradually desensitise them to being left alone. This can be done by starting with short separations and gradually increasing the duration.

2. Positive Reinforcement Training

Behavioural modification techniques, such as positive reinforcement, are highly effective in treating anxiety. This may involve working with a certified canine behaviourist to retrain your dog’s response to anxiety-inducing triggers. The goal is to change your dog’s emotional response to these situations, helping them feel more confident and relaxed.

3. Anti-Anxiety Medications

In some cases, medications may be necessary to manage anxiety. These can be short-term solutions, such as calming tablets before a stressful event (e.g. fireworks or travel), or long-term treatments for chronic anxiety. Medications work best when combined with behaviour modification techniques.

It’s essential to discuss the potential side effects and suitability of medication with your veterinarian, who can tailor a treatment plan based on your dog’s specific needs.

4. Supplements and Natural Remedies

In addition to medications, certain supplements, such as those containing valerian root or L-theanine, can help reduce anxiety in dogs. These natural remedies are generally safe but should be used under the guidance of a vet.

5. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Regular physical exercise is important for any dog, but especially for anxious dogs. Exercise helps release pent-up energy and promotes relaxation. Mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or interactive games, can also help reduce stress by keeping your dog’s mind engaged and distracted from anxiety-inducing thoughts.

Canine anxiety is a growing concern, but with early recognition and appropriate treatment, many dogs can lead happy, balanced lives. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for anxiety, pet owners can take proactive steps to prevent and manage this condition in their dogs.

If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from anxiety, we encourage you to reach out to the team at Cammeray Veterinary Hospital. Our experienced vets can provide a thorough evaluation, offer tailored advice, and help you develop a plan to manage your dog’s anxiety, ensuring they live a stress-free life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.