10/05/2025
Anxiety in dogs and cats takes many shapes and forms, just as it does in humans!
The most common types of anxiety we see in dogs are:
1) separation anxiety: your dogs inability to remain calm on his/her own without your constant presence. These dogs are often your shadow, have severe barking or vocalization when you leave the house (ie: your neighbors complain) or they become destructive in your absence.
2) Social anxiety: these are dogs who are terrified of other dogs or other people. This is sometimes coupled with aggression if approached, trying to take them on walks is an absolute nightmare and you choose rather to keep them on your property and lock them away when you get guests.
3) noise phobia: your dog starts trembling, wide eyes, panting, hypersalivation, whining and restless or hiding when there is a thunderstorm rolling in, or an explosion (eg fireworks), or sometimes even just a door that slams. The symptoms can be severe and a dog may hurt itself trying to get away from the noise.
4) generalized anxiety or a mix of the above: often shaking, trembling, seeking comfort from you as an owner, attention seeking behavior, avoidance behavior and the list goes on.
If your dog shows any of the above signs, they may be struggling with anxiety. There are so many ways to help them, sometimes small adjustments to home environments, or the way you handle certain situations, like how you greet them when they come home.
If you are concerned about your pet in any way, it is important to try and get help sooner rather than later. Dr Rosali does behavior consultations and together with certified veterinary behaviorists will tackle the concern at hand and formulate a behavior modification plan which may or may not include medication. As far as possible, we try manage problems without the medications, however it is important to know that these things are available and can greatly improve your pets quality of life!
Call us for an appointment or advice to see whether your pet's behavior needs intervention.
