What Are Signs of Anxiety In Dogs?

Signs of anxiety in dogs include excessive barking, hiding, shaking, panting, excess energy, aggression, and destruction. Anxiety is a common problem among pets, and the results aren’t just inconvenient—they can be dangerous. Fortunately, these symptoms and the underlying anxiety are often treatable through medication, behavior therapy, or a combination of the two.

Knowing What to Look For In An Anxious Dog 

There is no one list of symptoms that will apply to every dog with anxiety. The condition is a sliding scale that includes very mild cases, extremely severe cases, and anything in between. Some of the things to look for include:

• Hiding During a Stressful Situation: Take note of dogs who cower under a bed or in a corner.

• Shaking and Panting: Panting without a reason is a common symptom of anxiety. 

• Excessive Licking or Chewing: Some anxious dogs lick and chew at their fur to the point that they create hot spots.

• Nonstop Barking and Howling: Barking at a knock on the door or other stimulus is normal, but if the barking continues after the noise has stopped, that can signal anxiety.

• House Trained Dogs Urinating or Defecating in the House: An anxious dog who is house-trained may respond to change by going to the bathroom in the house.

• Destructive Behavior: Destroying toys and shoes may be normal, chewing through a door or wall is not.

• Panic Attacks: A panic attack will manifest as a combination of the above symptoms.

If you think your pet has anxiety, talk to your vet right away. Left untreated, canine anxiety will usually become more severe and, therefore, harder to treat. There are many causes for anxiety but, no matter the root, effective treatment is possible.