15 Everyday Habits That Could Be Causing Your Dog Anxiety

“Sad Elf Dog” by Mugofevil is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Dogs, like humans, can experience anxiety from their surroundings and the behavior of those around them. Many pet owners are unaware that some of their everyday habits could be contributing to their dog’s anxiety. Here are 15 common practices that might be stressing your dog out.

Lack of Exercise

tan and black German Shepherd sitting on snow
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Exercise is not just important for your dog’s physical health—it’s also crucial for their mental well-being. Dogs that don’t get enough physical activity may develop anxiety due to pent-up energy. This energy, when not properly expended, can lead to restlessness, destructive behavior, and even aggression. Regular exercise, tailored to your dog’s breed, age, and health, helps burn off excess energy, promotes better sleep, and provides mental stimulation.

Too Much Alone Time

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Dogs are inherently social animals, and being left alone for long periods can lead to separation anxiety. This condition is marked by behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, and even attempts to escape. Dogs with separation anxiety often experience extreme stress when they are left alone, as they feel isolated and abandoned.

Inconsistent Routines

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Dogs are creatures of habit and rely heavily on a predictable daily routine to feel secure. When their routine is disrupted—whether it’s irregular feeding times, inconsistent walk schedules, or varying bedtime routines—it can lead to stress and anxiety. This is because dogs find comfort in knowing what to expect.

Inadequate Socialization

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Proper socialization is vital to raising a well-adjusted dog. If a dog isn’t exposed to a variety of people, other dogs, environments, and experiences from a young age, they may develop anxiety in unfamiliar situations. It can manifest as fear, aggression, or extreme shyness. Socialization should be gradual, starting in a controlled environment where the dog feels safe.

Sudden Loud Noises

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Loud noises, like thunderstorms, fireworks, or even household appliances like vacuum cleaners, can be a major source of anxiety for dogs. These sounds can be startling and overwhelming, causing dogs to panic, hide, or exhibit stress behaviors like trembling or whining. Creating a safe, quiet space for your pup to retreat to during loud events can help them feel more safe.

Changing Household Dynamics

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Dogs are sensitive to changes in their environment, and significant changes in household dynamics—such as the arrival of a new baby, a new pet, or even a change in relationship status—can be stressful. These changes can disrupt your dog’s sense of security and routine, leading to anxiety. It’s important to introduce changes gradually and maintain as much consistency as possible in your dog’s routine.

Inconsistent Training Methods

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Using mixed or inconsistent commands and rewards can confuse your dog and increase their anxiety, as they struggle to understand what is expected of them. Dogs learn best when training is clear, consistent, and based on positive reinforcement. This means using the same commands for the same actions and rewarding good behavior consistently.

Overexposure to Strangers

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While some dogs are naturally friendly and outgoing, others may be more reserved or wary of strangers. Constantly exposing a dog who is uncomfortable around new people to strangers can increase their anxiety and fear. It’s important to respect your dog’s boundaries and not force them into situations where they feel threatened.

Not Enough Mental Stimulation

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Pups need mental as well as physical exercise to stay healthy and happy. A lack of mental stimulation can lead to boredom, which can manifest as anxiety or destructive behavior. Providing your dog with puzzles, interactive toys, training sessions, and new experiences can keep their mind engaged and reduce anxiety. Rotating toys, teaching new tricks, or even simple games like hide and seek can provide the mental challenge your dog needs.

Scolding or Yelling

Short-coated Tan Dog
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Dogs are attuned to the tone of your voice, and harsh scolding or yelling can cause fear and anxiety. Dogs don’t understand why they are being yelled at, which can lead to confusion and stress. Instead of using harsh tones, it’s more effective to use calm, positive reinforcement to guide your dog’s behavior. Rewarding good behavior and redirecting bad behavior with positive commands can build trust and reduce anxiety in your dog.

Ignoring Their Body Language

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Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and ignoring signs of stress or discomfort can exacerbate anxiety. Common signs of anxiety include pacing, panting, drooling, whining, and hiding. The dog may feel increasingly anxious and stressed if these signals are ignored. It’s important to pay attention to these cues and respond appropriately—whether it’s by removing them from a stressful situation or providing comfort and reassurance.

Changing Their Environment Too Often

An Abandoned Dog In The Wild
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Frequent changes in your dog’s environment, such as moving furniture, traveling, or frequent visitors, can be unsettling for some dogs. These changes can disrupt their sense of security and routine, leading to increased anxiety. While some dogs are more adaptable, others may struggle with frequent changes. To help ease this anxiety, try to keep your dog’s environment as stable as possible.

Feeding Them Human Food

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Feeding dogs human food, especially from the table, can create anxiety around mealtimes. This practice encourages begging and can lead to food aggression or digestive issues. Dogs who are given human food may become anxious about when and what they will eat next. To prevent this, it’s best to stick to a regular feeding routine with appropriate dog food.

Leaving the TV or Radio On Loudly

brown and white short coated dog on white and blue chair
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While some background noise can be comforting for dogs, leaving the TV or radio on at a high volume can be overwhelming, especially if the sounds are sudden or unfamiliar. Dogs have much more sensitive hearing than us, and what might seem like a normal volume to you could be distressing for them. If you leave the TV or radio on when you’re away, keep the volume low or opt for calming music specifically designed for dogs.

Ignoring Their Need for Comfort

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Some dogs need more reassurance and physical comfort than others, especially during stressful situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or when experiencing separation anxiety. Ignoring a dog’s need for comfort can increase their anxiety and lead to behaviors like excessive barking, whining, or destructive chewing.

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