Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

Dog Training Dog Reactivity Dog Enrichment Sniffspot Community Top Dog Trainers City Dog Parks Dog Breeds Dog Names Dog Rescues & Shelters

Home

Blog

Dog Reactivity

Dog Anxiety Signs and How to Help Your Pup Feel Better

Dog Anxiety Signs and How to Help Your Pup Feel Better

David Adams

March 07, 2024

Dog Reactivity

Dog Anxiety Signs and How to Help Your Pup Feel Better thumbnail

* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Just like us humans, our dogs are social mammals with complex emotional processes. And just like us, they can experience anxiety! This is especially common in our modern, human-centric world — so many parts of our pets’ lives aren’t compatible with their natural instincts and drives (like having to live in crowded cities or not do the jobs they were originally bred for).

Small amounts of anxiety can be a normal part of everyday life without lasting negative effects. A high level of anxiety, though, can become long-term problems or even indicate a different underlying cognition (like chronic pain). If your dog is feeling anxious all or most of the time, that’s going to disrupt their quality of life — and yours as their caretaker.

Anxiety might be the result of past experiences, your pup’s innate temperament (we all have unique individual personalities), age, or a few other factors.

This article outlines everything you need to know about anxiety in dogs. What are the symptoms of anxiety? What are its causes? How can you manage life with an anxious pup?

What is canine anxiety?

Dog owners (and even some dog trainers) often use the word “anxious” interchangeably with “fearful.” When it comes to the technical definitions of the terms, though, anxiety is actually not quite fear.

Let’s take a look at the distinctions.

What is fear?

Fear is an instinctive emotion animals experience when faced with an external threat (whether real or just perceived). It can be caused by specific situations, people, other pets, objects, and so on.

When our dogs experience fear, their bodies prepare for “fight or flight” by freezing and subconsciously taking inventory of the situation.

Fear is a completely normal response that’s actually essential for survival. In an evolutionary context, the ability to feel fear can greatly increase an animal’s chance of survival — hence the common phrase “healthy fear” we use when talking about things that are actually dangerous.

Some fears are abnormal, though. It’s possible to perceive a threat that isn’t actually there or to have a reaction far more intense than what the stimulus actually warrants.

(Thankfully, most abnormal fear responses can be helped with gradual, supported exposure and things like counterconditioning — more on this in our articles about fear aggression and dog reactivity.)

What is a phobia?

A phobia is a fear that is both excessive and persistent. Once a dog experiences a phobic event, they might find themselves entering a full-blown panicked response if they associate anything in the environment with its memory. Phobias often get worse over repeated exposures to the scary stimuli.

Noise phobias are the most commonly seen in pet dogs.

What is anxiety?

While fear is an emotion elicited by the present situation — things happening in real time — anxiety is defined as the anticipation of an imagined or unknown future danger. This results in a similar physiological response to fear, but on a more chronic basis (and without the survival benefits they evolved to achieve).

Separation anxiety is the most common specific anxiety in pet canines. Dogs with separation anxiety can't relax when they aren't around their key attachment figure. You can read more in our separation anxiety article!

A stressed out, anxious dog curled up in a small position showing the whites of their eyes

Signs your dog is anxious

Because we can’t actually know what’s going on inside our dogs’ heads, we have to rely on their body language cues to try to understand what they’re feeling. For this reason, many signs of fear and anxiety overlap in our pets.

These signs of anxiety might indicate that your dog is having a hard time:

Excessive panting
Excessive barking or whining
Destructive behavior in the house (especially in adult dogs who aren’t teething)
Pacing
Shaking
Drooling
Vomiting
Urinating or defecating indoors
Compulsive or repetitive behaviors
Growling, lunging, or snapping (many fearful or anxious displays are often mistaken as aggressive behavior)

Again: It’s normal for your dog to be fearful on occasion and to display these behaviors in certain situations. Remember they don’t have verbal language like we do!

If you notice that these signs occur excessively, though — or if you can’t clearly tell what’s causing them — it’s worth considering if your dog might be struggling with some chronic anxiety.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

What causes anxiety in dogs?

No one knows exactly what causes anxiety in dogs. Every dog is an individual — and every situation is different, too. That said, a range of things are associated with potential anxiety problems in our canine companions, from genetic conditions, problems with puppy socialization (or lack of), and age-related health conditions such as doggy dementia.

Some of the most common causes of fear and anxiety in dogs include:

Feeling forced into unfamiliar experiences or a stressful situation (this is one reason it’s so important to take socialization slowly, at a pace your puppy is comfortable with, and to allow environmental desensitization to happen gradually)
Not experiencing sufficient environmental exposure during the critical socialization window (until around 14 to 16 weeks of age)
Physical pain, especially if chronic
Illness and disease that affect your dog’s central nervous system, like viral infections or other toxic responses
The natural aging process that can cause confusion as your dog gets older

Is your dog’s anxiety your fault as their owner?

Many pet owners find themselves asking if they caused their dog to be anxious. Some old-school trainers perpetuate this myth, only making things worse for dog lovers who are already overwhelmed.

We’re here to tell you that your dog’s anxiety is not your fault. While it’s certainly possible that some environmental and social factors have played into their development (and that those have been influenced in some ways by you as their caretaker) there are countless variables at play. Nothing with your dog happens in a vacuum!

Say it with us: You love your dog. You do your best for them. You are not their key source of anxiety. Many dogs develop anxiety through absolutely no fault of their owners. Do not shoulder the blame for something so largely out of your control.

How to manage dog anxiety in the short term

Thundershirts or other “anxiety wraps”

Thundershirts and similar anxiety wraps apply a constant, mild pressure to the dog’s torso, in a soothing way. (Think of this like swaddling a baby — it’s a similar idea.)

Some dogs take very well to these wraps and find them effective, while others don’t. It’s difficult to know ahead of time whether they will work for your dog — but you can always try making a DIY version to see how your pup responds.

Anti anxiety dog beds

There are a few types of dog beds that may help with anxiety.

Bolsters

Bolsters are raised edges that run along the side of a bed (ideal for curling against or leaning on).

Burrow beds

Burrow beds or “cave-style” beds are kind of like a sleeping bag. They’re ideal for dogs who feel safest under blankets.

Do anti anxiety dog beds actually work?

It’s tough to say. One of these beds may be comforting to an anxious dog, especially if they feel particularly worried overnight and sleep in a different room than you do. However, there is no definitive data on their effectiveness.

There is little risk associated with them (they’re not going to make your dog’s anxiety worse, so feel free to give them a try), but keep in mind that many high end pet products can get expensive.

You might consider allocating your resources to professional training instead.

Dog calming sprays

Pet calming sprays use calming pheromones to help soothe stressed out dogs or cats. You simply need to spray (or use a diffuser) in the room that your dog is in. Like most products marketed for our pets' fears and anxieties, the jury is still out on whether or not they actually work.

Most of the published research has been done on Feliway (cat pheromones) and D.A.P. (Dog Appeasing Pheromone). In several studies, both of these products seemed to help soothe stressed pets under some circumstances. (However, most of these studies were funded by the products' maker — so take them with a grain of salt.)

Calming treats for dogs

A variety of “calming treats” are widely available these days. These treats may contain anything from chamomile to melatonin to CBD or a combination.

CBD calming treats

CBD treats are becoming increasingly popular, and some dog parents report that they find them effective, but keep in mind that at this time, there are no FDA-approved CBD products for pets.)

Other calming treats

There is some data that Anxitane, Zylkene, Soliquin, and similar veterinary over-the-counter calming non-CBD products can help alleviate anxiety in our pets. Many of these options include L-Theanine, milk products such as casein, and herbal ingredients.

Always talk with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new medication, even if it’s sold over the counter. Remember that even if calming treats work well for your dog — and they might! — you will still likely need to use them in combination with behavior modification training.

High anxiety dog crates

Some anxious dogs, particularly those with separation anxiety, may benefit from certain types of dog crates. Dog trainers generally recommend choosing a crate that is not too big (some anxious dogs like a smaller crate for coziness), cave-like (rather than cage-like), 100% secure, and that contains nothing that can be chewed.

Keep in mind that simply putting your anxious dog into a crate will not automatically calm them down — and in some cases, being confined can make things worse. You should always take care to properly condition your dog to any tool you use and work with a professional trainer to ensure a positive experience if in doubt. This will make sure their kennel is a safe space, not a stressful situation.

Learn about crate training:

A dog happily resting in their dog crate

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

How to reduce dog anxiety in the long term

Exercise

Depending on your dog’s age, breed, and health, make sure you’re providing them with adequate physical outlets. Exercise reduces stress in the short-term — just like in humans! — and can help keep your dog feel calmer overall. As a bonus, proper exercise can also help reduce destructive behaviors like digging and chewing.

Mental stimulation

Similarly, mental stimulation is great for all dogs — and especially for dogs with anxiety. There are lots of ways to provide your dog with mental stimulation, including games, learning new tricks, and special toys. Try to set aside some time every day specifically for cognitive enrichment!

Learn more:

Training

Ultimately: On top of meeting your dog’s basic needs (which can certainly help many pups who show symptoms of anxiety) you want to get to the root cause of your dog’s discomfort.

The best course of action is to bring in a qualified trainer who can help you understand what your dog is experiencing and develop a personally tailored treatment plan to help them feel better.

Medication

Medication can also be a helpful part of your dog’s anxiety treatment plan. Make sure to always talk with your professional trainer and veterinarian for guidance when deciding if and what type of drug is right for your dog's medical condition — and use any prescription in combination with thoughtful behavior modification training.

For more detailed information, take a look at our article on medication for anxious dogs!

You’re not alone if you live with an anxious dog — and there is hope!

Having an anxious dog can be overwhelming. With the right tools, patience, and support network, though? You can help your pup feel more comfortable and live a full life by their side!

While working with your dog, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional force free trainer for guidance or connect with fellow pet parents who have challenging companions of their own. We love our pets more than anything in the world — and we also need to take care of ourselves, too.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

Trainer Review of this Article

There is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.

This is the trainer that reviewed this article:

Rayanne Spence CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT
Professional Dog Trainer - Animal Medical Center of Hattiesburg

David Adams

March 07, 2024

Dog Reactivity

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

Find Sniffspot on your favorite social media

Big Dog Runs in Philadelphia: Public & Private Options

Portland Dog Parks: Sniffspot vs. Public Options

15 Best Dog Parks in the US: Public & Private

All categories

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

Definitive Guide To Off Leash Training With Your Dog

Most recent articles

Big Dog Runs in Philadelphia: Public & Private Options

Portland Dog Parks: Sniffspot vs. Public Options

15 Best Dog Parks in the US: Public & Private

20+ Best Enrichment Toys for Dogs: Ultimate Guide

Sniffspot: Private Dog Parks in San Diego

How to Become a Dog Trainer in Washington State

Big Dog Runs in Philadelphia: Public & Private Options

Portland Dog Parks: Sniffspot vs. Public Options

15 Best Dog Parks in the US: Public & Private

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

My Dog Is Food Aggressive With Other Dogs: What To Do
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
Scent Training for Dogs: A Beginner's Guide
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
Service Dog Training Costs: DIY vs. Pro
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

Top 10 Dog Water Parks in the US
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs: A Trainer's Guide
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Ultimate Guide: Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
Daily Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
Everyone knows dogs need exercise, but how much is enough? Walks are great, but creating a truly balanced fitness plan means understanding your dog's specific needs. This post helps you develop a daily exercise calculator for your dog, considering breed, age, and lifestyle. We'll cover fun activities, understanding exercise intensity, and recognizing when your pup has had enough. Let's create a plan that keeps your dog happy and healthy!
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Truth vs. Myth
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
What Is a Reactive Dog? A Practical Guide for Owners
Does your dog suddenly transform into a barking, lunging Tasmanian devil on walks? It's stressful for both of you. If this sounds familiar, you might have a reactive dog. Understanding what is a reactive dog is the first step to calmer walks. We'll explore the common triggers and give you actionable strategies to manage and modify this behavior. Let's turn those stressful walks into enjoyable outings.
How to Socialize a Reactive Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
What Is a Reactive Dog? A Comprehensive Guide
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

Top 10 Indoor Dog Parks: A US Guide
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best off-leash dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for public dog parks with open spaces or private, fully-fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Discover top-rated parks across the country, plus essential tips on what to bring and what to expect for your next adventure.
Dog Parks Near Me: Las Vegas Edition
Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime, socializing, and fresh air. Plus, we'll cover essential etiquette and safety tips to ensure a happy visit for everyone. Get ready for some tail-wagging fun!
Best Sniffspot Locations: Private Dog Parks Near You
Looking for the perfect dog park? Whether you need a wide-open public space or a private, fenced-in spot, this guide will help you find the best dog parks across the US. We'll cover top-rated public parks, the perks of private dog parks, and even explore Sniffspot locations – giving your pup a safe and fun place to play. Ready to find your dog's new favorite spot? Let's go!
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Dog Anxiety Signs and How to Help Your Pup Feel Better

What is canine anxiety?

What is fear?

What is a phobia?

What is anxiety?

Signs your dog is anxious

What causes anxiety in dogs?

Is your dog’s anxiety your fault as their owner?

How to manage dog anxiety in the short term

Thundershirts or other “anxiety wraps”

Anti anxiety dog beds

Bolsters

Burrow beds

Do anti anxiety dog beds actually work?

Dog calming sprays

Calming treats for dogs

CBD calming treats

Other calming treats

High anxiety dog crates

How to reduce dog anxiety in the long term

Exercise

Mental stimulation

Training

Medication

You’re not alone if you live with an anxious dog — and there is hope!

Trainer Review of this Article

David Adams

About Sniffspot

Follow us

Related articles

All categories

Most recent articles

Related articles

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top dog rescues in the US

About Sniffspot

Browse by top cities

Atlanta

Austin

Boston

Calgary

Chicago

Columbus

Dallas

Denver

Edmonton

Houston

Las Vegas

Logan

Los Angeles

Milwaukee

Minneapolis

Nashville

New York

Old Toronto

Omaha

Ottawa

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

San Antonio

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

Tampa

Washington

Westminster

Browse by top states

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas