If you’ve watched your dog pace the hallway during a thunderstorm or freeze at the sound of the vacuum cleaner, you’re not alone. Like people, dogs can experience anxiety, and for some pups, it can be more than just a momentary stressor. It can be an ongoing part of life that affects their behavior, wellbeing, and happiness.
The good news? You don’t have to be a canine behaviorist to recognize when your dog might be feeling anxious, and there are simple, everyday things you can do to help ease their worries.
How Common Is Anxiety in Dogs?
More common than most people realize. Studies suggest that over 70% of dogs show some signs of anxiety, whether it’s separation stress, noise phobia, or reactivity toward strangers or other dogs. Some breeds are more prone to it than others, but anxiety can affect any dog—young or old, rescue or purebred, high-energy or laid-back.
Sometimes anxiety develops from trauma or lack of early socialization. Other times, it’s just part of a dog’s temperament. Either way, recognizing the signs early can help prevent it from becoming something more serious.
What Anxiety Looks Like in Dogs
Anxious dogs don’t always cower in the corner. Sometimes, the signs are subtle—or easy to mistake for “bad behavior.” Here are a few common ways anxiety can show up:
- Pacing or restlessness
- Excessive barking or whining, especially when left alone
- Destructive chewing or digging, particularly at doors or windows
- Shaking or panting, even when it’s not hot
- Hiding, avoiding eye contact, or acting clingy
- Licking paws or other repetitive behaviors
- Accidents indoors, even when house-trained
Behavior that may seem puzzling or frustrating is often your dog’s way of saying that they’re feeling distressed.
Common Triggers
Like people, dogs can be sensitive to many different triggers. Some of the most common anxiety triggers include:
- Being left alone (separation anxiety)
- Loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms
- Strange people or animals
- Changes in routine, like moving or a new baby
- Trips to the vet or groomer
If you notice a pattern, that’s a great starting point. Identifying what makes your dog uneasy is the first step to helping them feel better.
How to Help an Anxious Dog
Addressing anxiety takes time, but steady, thoughtful changes can lead to lasting improvements. Even simple adjustments to your dog’s routine and environment can make a meaningful difference.
- Create a safe space
Set up a quiet, cozy spot where your dog can retreat during stressful moments. A crate with a comfy bed, a covered nook, or even a favorite blanket or soft toy in the closet can offer comfort. - Stick to a routine
Dogs thrive on predictability. Try to keep feeding, walking, and bedtime on a schedule, especially during stressful times like holidays or travel. - Exercise and mental stimulation
Boredom can heighten anxiety. Daily walks, sniff time, training games, puzzle toys, and long-lasting natural chews can help burn off nervous energy and build confidence. - Try calming aids
From chews and supplements to wearable wraps and calming sprays, there are gentle tools that can help support a more relaxed state. - Talk to your vet or a behaviorist
For moderate to severe anxiety, it’s worth seeking professional input. Your vet can rule out medical issues and may suggest training support or targeted therapies.
Types of Calming Aids for Dogs—and Whether They Work
1. Nutritional Supplements and Calming Chews
These are edible products that often include naturally calming compounds such as:
- L-theanine (an amino acid from green tea)
- L-tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin)
- Chamomile
- Melatonin (a hormone that regulates sleep)
- CBD and other hemp-based compounds
- Colostrum (used in some vet-formulated products like Composure)
Do they work?
Some dogs respond well to these supplements, especially when anxiety is mild to moderate. Research is still growing, but several studies support the efficacy of ingredients like L-theanine and melatonin in reducing stress behaviors. CBD is gaining popularity for its potential calming effects, though more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in dogs, so it’s best used with veterinary guidance.
2. Pheromone-Based Products
These include Adaptil-style diffusers and collars designed to release synthetic versions of dog-appeasing pheromones (DAP) that mimic the calming pheromones released by mother dogs to soothe their puppies.
Do they work?
Some studies suggest that DAP can help reduce stress-related behaviors in dogs, such as barking and pacing. However, other research indicates mixed results, and its effectiveness may vary depending on the individual dog and the context. They’re most effective for mild stress or in combination with other strategies.
3. Wearable Pressure Wraps and Anxiety Vests
Like the popular Thundershirt, these garments apply gentle, constant pressure around the torso—similar to how swaddling calms an infant.
Do they work?
Some dogs seem to find comfort in the pressure, especially during noise events like storms or fireworks. Clinical studies show mixed but generally positive results. These are safe and worth trying, particularly for situational anxiety.
4. Calming Music and White Noise
- There are playlists designed specifically for dogs (such as Through a Dog’s Ear) that use slow tempos and simple tones to encourage relaxation.
- Classical Music: Studies have shown that classical music can have a calming effect on dogs, leading to behaviors like increased resting and reduced barking .
- White Noise Machines can help mask external sounds that might trigger anxiety in dogs.
Do they work?
Several studies suggest classical or specially composed music can reduce stress-related behaviors in dogs, particularly in shelter or kennel environments, or in environments with unpredictable noises. However, dogs may habituate to the sounds over time, so varying the auditory stimuli might be necessary.
5. Aromatherapy and Calming Sprays
Some products use lavender, valerian root, chamomile, or other essential oils thought to promote relaxation.
Do they work?
Some evidence suggests that certain essential oils, like lavender, may have calming effects on dogs. However, essential oils must be used cautiously, as some can be toxic to pets. Always consult with a veterinarian before using aromatherapy products around your dog.
6. Prescription Medications
For severe anxiety, especially when it interferes with quality of life, vets may recommend medications such as:
- Fluoxetine (Prozac): An SSRI used to treat separation anxiety and other behavioral issues.
- Clomipramine: A tricyclic antidepressant approved for treating separation anxiety in dogs.
- Trazodone: Often used for situational anxiety, such as during vet visits or thunderstorms.
Do they work?
Yes, when prescribed appropriately, prescription medications can be highly effective for managing moderate to severe anxiety in dogs. They’re typically used in conjunction with behavior modification strategies, and they require a vet’s oversight and may take time to become effective.
So, Do Calming Aids Work?
Yes—but with important caveats:
- Effectiveness varies by dog, the type and severity of anxiety, and the situation (e.g., chronic vs. short-term).
- They’re most effective when combined with behavioral support, environmental consistency, and sometimes professional training.
- Trial and observation matter. Some dogs respond quickly to a calming aid; others need a multi-pronged approach.
Final Thoughts
Living with an anxious dog can be tough—but it’s also an opportunity to deepen your bond. When you recognize your dog’s needs and respond with care, you build trust. And trust is the foundation for a calmer, more confident pup.
It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just consistent, kind, and tuned in.
