10 Signs Your Dog Might Be Dealing with Anxiety (and What You Can Do About It)

We all see our dogs as part of the family, and just like any loved one, we want them to feel happy and healthy. But sometimes, dogs can get anxious too, just like us. Maybe they get nervous when you head out the door or panic during a thunderstorm. Whatever the cause, it’s important to tackle that anxiety before it starts affecting their well-being.

Here are 10 signs your pup might be feeling anxious, plus some easy tips to help them relax!

1. Barking or Whining Non-Stop

If your dog can’t stop barking or whining, especially when you’re not home, it’s a clear sign that they’re dealing with stress or anxiety. It’s their way of telling you something’s wrong, almost like they’re trying to "vent" their emotions. Separation anxiety in dogs is actually pretty common, and constant barking or whining is one of the main symptoms. This behavior can also be triggered by other things like loud noises, strangers, or changes in their environment.

What You Can Do: You can start by identifying what’s causing the anxiety. If your dog gets anxious when you leave the house, try practicing short absences. Leave for just a few minutes and then gradually extend the time you're away. This helps them learn that you’ll always come back. Please make sure to reward your dog when they stay calm, either with their favorite treats, extra belly rubs, or some playtime. Over time, this helps reduce separation anxiety and teaches them that being alone isn’t something to worry about.

2. Destroying Everything in Sight

Ever come home to find your favorite shoes chewed up or the couch cushions completely shredded? That’s a big red flag that your dog’s anxiety is taking over, and they’re acting out because they’re feeling stressed or bored. Destructive behavior like chewing or tearing things apart is a common sign of anxiety in dogs, especially when they’re left alone for too long. It’s their way of coping with the stress and frustration they’re feeling.

What You Can Do:
While we have our phones and endless distractions, dogs don’t have that luxury. They need mental stimulation to keep their brains busy and anxiety at bay. One great solution is using puzzle feeders or interactive toys. These clever toys make dogs work for their food, engaging their mind and keeping them occupied for longer periods. Instead of worrying about being alone, they’ll be focused on solving the puzzle to get their reward, making it a great way to ease separation anxiety and prevent destructive behavior.

Plus, puzzle feeders are widely recommended by dog trainers and veterinarians for providing mental enrichment, which is crucial for a happy and healthy dog. So next time you’re leaving the house, try giving your pup one of these engaging toys to keep their mind off being alone!

3. Restlessness or Pacing

Our home is supposed to be a chill spot for your dog, right? But if you catch them pacing around like they’re on a treadmill, it’s a sure sign they’re feeling stressed out. Dogs don’t pace for no reason—it usually means they’re anxious, especially if they’re doing it when they’d normally be relaxed. This can happen for a bunch of reasons, like changes in their environment, new routines, or even loud noises that freak them out. Pacing is just their way of burning off all that nervous energy, so it’s something you’ll want to keep an eye on.

What You Can Do:
To help your dog feel more at ease, try setting up a calming environment for them. Soothing scents like lavender or chamomile can do wonders, and calming music (yes, they make music specifically for dogs!) can help ease their nerves. You could also try a pheromone diffuser, which releases calming pheromones that mimic what dogs naturally produce, making them feel more secure.

Routine is also a huge deal for dogs—they love knowing what’s coming next. So, sticking to a regular schedule for meals, walks, and playtime can help reduce their anxiety. Dogs are creatures of habit, and a predictable routine can ease their stress.

If the pacing continues, it might be worth a trip to the vet to rule out any health issues like joint pain or other physical problems. Keeping an eye on your dog’s behavior is key to ensuring they’re both happy and healthy!

4. Trembling or Shaking

Dogs often tremble when they’re scared or anxious—it’s their way of showing they’re stressed. Common triggers include things like thunderstorms, fireworks, or even a trip to the vet. It’s their version of saying, "I’m not okay with this!"

What You Can Do:
First, try comforting your dog, but be careful not to overdo it and accidentally reinforce their fear. You don’t want them to think trembling gets them extra attention every time. Instead, try distracting them with something they love, like a favorite toy or a puzzle feeder. You can turn a stressful event into a more positive experience by giving them something else to focus on. This way, they start to associate those scary moments with fun or rewards, which helps reduce anxiety in the long run.

5. Excessive Licking or Chewing

If your dog is constantly licking their paws or chewing on themselves, it’s probably not just a quirky habit. These repetitive behaviors are often a sign of anxiety. It’s their way of trying to soothe themselves when they’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

What You Can Do:
One of the best things you can do is tire them out! A dog that’s physically and mentally worn out won’t have as much energy to focus on their anxiety. Take them outside for some fresh air, go for a long walk, or engage them with a puzzle feeder to keep their mind busy. The more you can keep them entertained and active, the less likely they are to obsess over licking or chewing. Plus, regular exercise and mental stimulation can help ease their overall anxiety in the long run.

If licking paws behavior never gets better, you should consider visiting your regular veterinarian for skin problems. 

6. Hiding or Avoiding People

If your normally outgoing dog is suddenly hiding under the bed or steering clear of you, it’s a major sign that they’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious. It’s their way of saying, “I need some space,” and it’s definitely something you’ll want to pay attention to.

What You Can Do:
Give them the space they need, but gently encourage them to come back to the pack when they’re ready. You can try luring them out with their favorite treat or toy to make them feel more comfortable. Another great idea is to create a “safe zone” for them—whether it’s a cozy crate or a quiet corner of the house—so they have a place to retreat to when they’re feeling anxious. Having that safe space can help them feel more secure and less overwhelmed.

7. Not Interested in Food

If your dog’s not eating, and it’s more than just a one-time thing, anxiety might be to blame. Dogs who are stressed or anxious often lose interest in food, which is a big red flag—especially if your pup is usually all about mealtime!

What You Can Do:
Make eating more fun and interactive by using a puzzle feeder. Turning mealtime into a game keeps their mind busy and can help distract them from whatever’s stressing them out. It also adds a little extra mental stimulation, which is great for anxious dogs. But if their appetite still doesn’t bounce back after a bit, it’s a good idea to check in with the vet to rule out any other issues.

8. Panting (When They’re Not Hot)

Dogs pant when they’re hot or tired, but if your dog is panting a lot in cool, relaxed situations, it’s a pretty strong sign they’re feeling stressed. Panting can be one of those sneaky signs of anxiety that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.

What You Can Do:
Help your dog calm down by engaging them in something they enjoy. A nice walk, a game of fetch, or even a puzzle feeder can do wonders to distract them from whatever’s making them anxious. These activities help burn off some of that nervous energy and bring them back to a more relaxed state. Keeping your dog engaged both physically and mentally is key to managing their anxiety!

9. Tail Tucking and Ears Back

If your dog’s tail is tucked between their legs or their ears are pinned back, it’s their body’s way of saying they’re scared or anxious. Dogs use their body language to communicate, and these are clear signs they’re not feeling comfortable.

What You Can Do:
Give your pup lots of love and patience. Don’t force them to interact if they’re not ready, but try to gently redirect their focus to something positive, like a favorite game or a puzzle feeder. Engaging their mind with fun activities can help ease their anxiety. Also, stick to a consistent routine—dogs love knowing what to expect, and that sense of control can really help them feel more secure and less stressed.

10. Constantly Following You

Dogs love their independence sometimes, but if your dog is stuck to you like glue, even following you into the bathroom, it might seem cute—but it could also be a sign of anxiety. They might be scared of being away from you and feel the need to stay close 24/7.

What You Can Do:
Help them learn that it’s okay to be on their own. Start by leaving them alone for just a few minutes, then slowly build up the time. Make sure to leave them with something fun to keep them busy, like a puzzle feeder, so they’re distracted and don’t even notice you’re gone. When you come back and they’ve stayed calm, give them tons of praise and maybe even a treat! Over time, they’ll start to feel more comfortable being by themselves.

Bottom Line:
Dog anxiety can be challenging, but there’s a lot you can do to help. Giving them mental stimulation with puzzle feeders, creating a calming environment, and sticking to a consistent routine can all make a huge difference. If things don’t get better, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet. They can offer extra strategies or even suggest medications if needed.

Remember, a happy dog is one that feels safe and secure—and with a little patience and the right approach, you can help your furry friend feel more at ease.