Dog Anxiety Awareness Week
May 5th - 11th is Dog Anxiety Awareness Week
This week, we encourage dog owners to proactively learn about the causes, signs, and treatments for anxiety in dogs—something that, if left unaddressed, can significantly impact both the dog’s wellbeing and the harmony of the household.
Dog Anxiety Awareness Week
Recognizing Canine Anxiety
Dogs, much like humans, experience anxiety as a natural response to stress. However, when anxiety becomes chronic or excessive, it can develop into a behavioral disorder requiring professional attention.
Common Signs of Anxiety in Dogs
Anxious dogs may display a variety of signs:
Cowering or hiding
Trembling, panting, or pacing
Lip licking or excessive drooling
Yawning or restlessness
Withdrawal from family members
Destructive behavior or house soiling when left alone
Potential Causes of Canine Anxiety
There are a range of factors that can contribute to the development of anxiety in dogs, including:
Genetic predisposition
Lack of early socialization
Traumatic experiences or rehoming
Loss of a companion (animal or human)
Environmental changes (e.g., moving, renovations)
Extended periods of isolation
Some common events that may trigger increased fear, anxiety, or stress:
Loud noises (thunderstorms, fireworks, vacuums)
Veterinary exams, handling, or procedures
Grooming procedures (bathing, nail trimming)
Unfamiliar people or animals
Travel or car rides
Being left alone (separation anxiety)
What Is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a distressful behavioral condition that occurs when a dog is left alone or separated from their primary attachment figure.
Dogs with this condition show signs of anxiety when alone, and also may exhibit:
Destruction of household items
Incessant barking or howling
Urinating or defecating indoors
Possible triggers or causes of separation anxiety may include
History of prolonged confinement or time in shelters
Sudden changes in the owner's schedule
Hyper-attachment behaviors
Separation anxiety is not caused by “bad behavior” or boredom—it is a medical and emotional response to fear and isolation. Punishing a dog for these behaviors will worsen the anxiety and damage trust.
Diagnosing Anxiety Disorders
The first step in addressing separation anxiety or any anxiety-related behavior is a comprehensive veterinary exam. It’s important to note that underlying medical issues might mimic or contribute to anxiety, such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, or cognitive dysfunction. If you notice these signs or changes, consult your veterinarian at Powell Veterinary Clinic to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
For dogs experiencing separation anxiety, video monitoring while the dog is alone can be an invaluable tool in assessing the situation, identifying specific triggers, and determining whether the anxiety is consistent or situational (e.g., triggered by nearby construction or noise aversion).
Treatment and Management Options
Effective management often includes a combination of behavior modification techniques, environmental enrichment, and, when necessary, medications. After a comprehensive exam, we can tailor a treatment plan specific to your dog’s needs. For severe cases, we are able to refer your dog to a Board-certified Veterinary Behaviorist.
Behavioral modification techniques include:
Counter-conditioning: Pairing anxiety-inducing triggers with positive experiences (e.g., treats or toys).
Systematic desensitization: Gradually exposing the dog to triggers at low intensity to build tolerance. An example would be changing departure cues or rehearsing actions like picking up keys or putting on shoes without actually leaving to break the anxiety association.
Positive reinforcement training: Teaching calm, independent behaviors and rewarding them consistently.
Environmental Enrichment methods:
Puzzle toys or food-dispensing devices
Interactive play and exercise
Canine-specific calming music or white noise
What You Can Do During Dog Anxiety Awareness Week
Observe your dog’s behavior: Note any signs of stress or unusual changes in routine or behavior.
Consult your veterinarian: Early diagnosis can prevent long-term complications and preserve your bond with your pet.
Create a daily routine: Dogs thrive on consistency. Set regular times for feeding, walks, and play.
Introduce enrichment activities: Mental and physical stimulation can help prevent the development of anxiety-related behaviors.
We're Here to Help
At Powell Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to providing compassionate care for dogs experiencing anxiety. If you have concerns about your dog’s behavior, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation with our veterinary team. Together, we can help your dog live a calmer, healthier life.
