ad-looking dog resting its head, illustrating signs of stress and anxiety in dogs.

A practical guide to understanding stress, fear, and anxiety in dogs

By Dr Nicole Rous

 

It’s normal for dogs to feel worried or uncertain from time to time. Just like people, dogs can become stressed by changes in their environment, unfamiliar situations, or unexpected events.

However, when anxiety begins to affect a dog’s quality of life, their ability to cope, or their relationship with their family, it’s worth taking a closer look.

At Vets of Melbourne, we often see dogs that are struggling with anxiety in one form or another. One of the most common questions we hear from owners is:

“How do I know if my dog’s anxiety is normal, or if something more serious is going on?”

The answer often lies in understanding the difference between normal stress responses and persistent anxiety.

What is normal stress in dogs?

Stress is a normal and important part of life.

A dog’s stress response is designed to help them respond to challenges and keep themselves safe. You may notice temporary signs of stress when your dog experiences something unfamiliar, such as:

  • Visiting the vet

  • Hearing fireworks or thunderstorms

  • Travelling in the car

  • Meeting new people or dogs

  • Staying in a new environment

During these situations, dogs may:

  • Pant

  • Pace

  • Seek reassurance

  • Tremble

  • Become quieter than usual

  • Show temporary changes in appetite

In many cases, these signs improve once the stressful event has passed.

When does stress become anxiety?

Anxiety occurs when a dog struggles to cope with situations that feel threatening or unpredictable.

Unlike short-term stress, anxiety can persist even after the trigger has disappeared. Some dogs may also begin anticipating stressful events, causing them to remain in a heightened state of alertness.

Signs of anxiety in dogs may include:

  • Excessive panting

  • Pacing or restlessness

  • Difficulty settling

  • Destructive behaviour

  • Excessive vocalisation

  • Hiding

  • Trembling

  • Hypervigilance

  • Reactivity towards people or other dogs

  • Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

These behaviours can range from mild to severe and may significantly impact both the dog and their family.

Why do some dogs become anxious?

There is rarely a single cause.

Dog anxiety often develops because of a combination of factors, including:

Genetics and temperament

Some dogs appear naturally more sensitive or cautious than others.

Early life experiences

Positive exposure to people, places, sounds, and experiences during puppyhood plays an important role in building confidence.

Medical conditions

Pain and illness can significantly influence behaviour.

We often see behavioural changes in dogs experiencing conditions such as:

  • Arthritis

  • Dental disease

  • Chronic skin disease

  • Gastrointestinal discomfort

  • Hormonal disorders

This is one reason why a veterinary assessment is important when anxiety develops suddenly or worsens unexpectedly.

Environmental changes

Moving house, changes in routine, a new family member, or loss of a companion can all contribute to increased stress.

Can anxiety look like something else?

Absolutely.

Many medical conditions can present with behavioural signs that resemble anxiety.

For example:

  • A dog with chronic pain may become irritable or restless.

  • A dog with gastrointestinal discomfort may struggle to settle.

  • A dog experiencing cognitive decline may appear confused or anxious.

This is why behaviour changes should never automatically be assumed to be “just anxiety.”

Separation anxiety versus normal attachment

Many dogs enjoy being around their owners and prefer company.

This is very different from separation anxiety.

Dogs with separation anxiety may experience significant distress when left alone and can show signs such as:

  • Barking or howling

  • Destructive behaviour

  • Toileting indoors

  • Excessive salivation

  • Attempts to escape

These behaviours can be very distressing for both the dog and their family and often require a structured management plan.

Can gut health influence anxiety?

There is growing interest in the relationship between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the gut–brain axis.

Researchers are investigating how the gut microbiome may influence stress responses and emotional regulation through interactions involving the immune system, nervous system, and various signalling molecules.

While we cannot say that gut health directly causes anxiety, some dogs with chronic digestive issues and behavioural concerns may benefit from a broader assessment of their overall health, including gastrointestinal health where appropriate.

When might calming supplements help?

Some dogs may benefit from evidence-informed calming supplements, particularly:

  • During predictable stressful events

  • As part of behaviour modification programs

  • For mild to moderate anxiety

However, supplements are rarely enough on their own for severe anxiety or significant behavioural disorders.

The best outcomes usually occur when support is individualised and combined with:

  • Environmental management

  • Behavioural training

  • Addressing underlying medical issues

  • In some cases, prescription medication

When should you speak to your vet?

It’s worth seeking veterinary advice if your dog:

  • Has developed anxiety suddenly

  • Is becoming increasingly fearful or reactive

  • Shows signs of aggression

  • Is struggling to settle or sleep

  • Has behavioural changes alongside digestive or skin issues

  • Is no longer coping with everyday situations

Early intervention can make a significant difference and may help prevent behaviours from becoming more established over time.

A practical approach to dog anxiety

When we assess anxiety in clinic, we look at the whole picture.

This may include:

  • Medical history

  • Pain assessment

  • Daily routine and environment

  • Diet and overall health

  • Behavioural triggers and patterns

Every dog is different, and management plans are most effective when tailored to the individual.

Final thoughts

Feeling worried from time to time is a normal part of being a dog.

However, when fear and stress begin to affect a dog’s wellbeing, relationships, or ability to enjoy everyday life, it’s important to seek support.

Anxiety is rarely caused by a single factor, and there is rarely a single solution.

By taking a thoughtful, whole-dog approach, we can often help anxious dogs feel safer, more comfortable, and better able to cope with the world around them.