When referring to dogs, fear and anxiety are at times used interchangeably. However, there are several key differences between a fearful dog and an anxious dog. A fearful dog is a dog that is reacting negatively to a current situation, whereas an anxious dog is a dog that is reacting to a situation that has not yet occurred. In order to accurately identify and combat anxiety in our dogs it’s important to take the time to develop a thorough understanding of dog anxiety and what exactly it entails.
Separation Anxiety in Dogs
In a study found in the Merck Veterinary Manual, approximately 14% of dogs deal with separation anxiety when forced to be away from their family. Separation anxiety in dogs describes a dog that is fearful of being on their own and it is often seen in puppies, senior dogs, or dogs that have recently experienced an environmental change, such as a move or the recent addition or loss of a family member.
Dogs may begin to feel separation anxiety the moment they see their owner pick up their shoes or head towards the door, triggering unpleasant feelings of anxiety for the dog. The common behaviors associated with separation anxiety include soiling inside the house, restlessness, excessive barking, panting, whining, increased drool, or other destructive behaviors.
Age-Related Anxiety in Dogs
Age-related anxiety is a result of a dog’s cognitive decline that occurs with age due to irreversible bodily changes that alter their behavior. Age-related anxiety may be displayed as confusion, memory problems, challenges with perception, and lack of awareness. Furthermore, this type of anxiety may be accompanied by behavioral changes, including agitation or aggression.
Fear-Related Anxiety
Fear-related anxiety can be triggered by a vast number of different situations or things. Some dogs experience fear-related anxiety in relation to loud noises, such as fireworks or nearby construction. Other dogs may experience fear-related anxiety when exposed to new people, animals, or environments.
If you recognize anxious behaviors in your dog, it’s important to contact your trusted veterinarian to schedule an appointment to develop an effective anxiety treatment plan to help your dog live a healthier, calmer life.
