Anxiety in dogs is something that pet parents have a hard time dealing with or recognizing for that matter. These are some of the signs a dog will exhibit when anxious: pacing, drooling, barking, destroying things, nipping, etc. I always recommend for pet parents to have a vet do a physical exam to rule out any medical condition their dog may be experiencing, and once they get a clean bill of health we could start addressing the anxiety in their dogs.
Charlie, a GSD mix, had a lot of anxiety when we got him from the SPCA in Annapolis, MD. By the way, most dogs from shelters are very anxious, it’s rare to find one that is not. Our Charlie went from screaming murder at the top of his lungs any time: we left the room; we exited the car; we went to a new place, etc. How is he doing now? Way better and still working with him, but understand this, your dog’s anxiety will disappear with time if you are consistent with the following:
- Walk him! Yes, this gets a lot of that anxiety and pent up energy out of them
- Don’t talk too much to your dog. Use your body language, energy and intention instead
- Start working with a trainer on basic training and behavior modification
- When you are overwhelm, walk away, take a deep breath and work with your dog once you are on a relaxed state of mind. No, you cannot drink wine. Sorry!
The above is just a few of the things you could do to start dealing with your dog’s anxiety. Charlie is super smart, he is a GSD mix after all, but I am still working with him and I have seen amazing results. Don’t despair, be consistent and your dog will one day bring you joy rather than stress. Enjoy your week!
AllMyCanineCompanions 
Thank you for sharing your insights on recognizing and addressing anxiety in dogs. It’s important for pet parents to prioritize their furry friends’ well-being and seek professional guidance when needed. Your experience with Charlie is a testament to the positive impact of consistency and patience. Great advice!
Thanks a million for your encouraging and kind words. Totally, consistency and patience!
The author’s advice on dealing with dog anxiety is really helpful. It’s important for pet parents to understand the signs and seek medical advice before addressing the issue. Consistent walks and training can do wonders for a dog’s anxiety. Thanks for sharing your experience with Charlie!
Your welcome Laura. Thanks for stopping by!
Great advice for an ongoing issue with many shelter and rescue dogs. Elsa will be a lifelong project, but she’s a lovely companion to me, just not all dogs she encounters. Being a puppy mill survivor, there is lots of baggage to unpack. 😉
Some puppy mill survivors never are 100% ok, but that is something that we, humans, created so thank you for loving and caring for Elsa. You are the best!
She had such a rough start and deserves a loving home that looks out for her needs. She’s also an epileptic dog, as if mistreatment wasn’t bad enough. *sigh
Omg! Poor baby. But you know what? She is with you now, and she is loved, cared and appreciated. What a beautiful human being you are!
That’s so kind of you to say. I adored her from the get go and she gives back so much love despite the rough start and health issues. She’s sketchy around most dogs but she’s an absolute cuddle bug in my {oof} lap every night after her dinner. Love my Ninja!
So glad you are happy with your canine kid!
We rescued Laila 8 years ago and thought we had worked through most of her issues. She’s a total love bug. Then covid hit and my husband and I worked from home. When we finally went a way for a weekend and sent her to the sitter, she started barking at night and attached herself to the sitter’s leg.
Got a clean bill of health from the vet, who sent us home with anti-anxiety meds. She’s still not playing with the other dogs as much as she used to, but isn’t acting like a total nut.
Give her time, lots of exercise, and a routine and she’ll go back to being a bit more independent. Good luck!