What are the signs of social anxiety in dogs?

Dogs are very expressive, so there is much to learn by observing their body language and behavior. An anxious dog may pant, pace, tremble, drool, withdraw from its owner, or hide. Alternatively, they may appear irritable or aggressive (i.e., bark or growl at someone). The dog’s tail may be low or tucked, ears back, eyes dilated or showing lots of white around them (whale eye). Their body carriage may be low and their manner hesitant or avoidant. Anxious dogs may also appear extra friendly and continually approach, jump on someone, and lick their face, or just be needier with the owner. They may demonstrate displacement behaviors, which are normal behaviors that occur out of context when a dog is stressed. Common displacement behaviors are yawning when not turned, stretching when not stiff, rapid blinking when nothing is in the eye, sneezing when there is nothing bothering the nose, and sniffing the ground or scanning the environment when there is nothing of interest or when nothing has happened. Dogs that are anxious may also urinate inside. Dogs that are anxious all the time (as opposed in the presence of something that makes them uneasy) may become depressed or irritable, sleep more, and may lose interest in food, training, play, and social interaction.

Shyness or trembling are signs of anxiety; aggression may also occur. Symptoms of Social Anxiety in Dogs Dogs with social anxiety may be calm and happy with their family members but become anxious around strangers or unfamiliar dogs; these dogs are also likely to panic when leaving home. The signs of this disorder range from mildly distressing to severe and potentially dangerous. Symptoms Timid behavior (cowering, trembling, tail tucking, or whining)Panting or droolingUncontrollably urinating or defecating Aggressive behavior (barking, growling, or biting) Dogs with social anxiety often try to hide behind their owners and may even tremble or whine in fear. These poor pups may become so nervous that they pee or poop spontaneously, and they may also pant excessively or drool. While some dogs respond to anxiety by becoming very timid, others may feel trapped and cornered, which often results in aggression and can be dangerous to people or dogs within reach.

Pacing or shaking. You have seen your dog shake after a bath or a roll in the grass. That whole-body shake can be amusing and is quite normal — unless it occurs as the result of a stressful situation. Whining or barking. Vocalization is normal self-expression in dogs but may be intensified when they are under stress. Dogs that are afraid or tense may whine or bark to get your attention, or to self-soothe. Yawning, drooling, and licking. Dogs yawn when they are tired or bored, and they also yawn when stressed. A stressful yawn is more prolonged and intense than a sleepy yawn. Changes in eyes and ears. Stressed dogs, like stressed people, may have dilated pupils and blink rapidly. They may open their eyes wide and show more sclera (white) than usual, giving them a startled appearance. Their ears may be pinned back against their head. Changes in body posture. Dogs normally bear weight evenly on all four legs. If a healthy dog with no orthopedic problems shifts their weight to the rear legs or cowers, they may be exhibiting stress. When scared, dogs may also tuck their tails or become rigid. Shedding. Show dogs that become nervous in the show ring often “blow their coat”. Dogs also shed a lot when in the veterinary clinic. Although less noticeable in outside settings, such as visiting a new dog park, shedding increases when a dog is anxious. Panting. Dogs pant when hot, excited, or stressed. If your dog is panting even though they have not exercised, they may be experiencing stress. Changes in bodily functions. Like people, nervous dogs may experience an increased urgency to urinate or defecate. Dogs may experience gastrointestinal (GI) upset that can include vomiting, diarrhea, and refusing food. Avoidance or displacement behavior. When faced with an unwelcome situation, dogs may “escape” by focusing on something else. They may sniff or dig the ground, lick their genitals, or simply turn away. Hiding or escape behavior. An extension of avoidance, some tense dogs move behind a trusted person or behind a nearby object. They may even nudge or jump on their person to prompt them to move along.

Social anxiety in dogs occurs when a dog becomes excessively nervous, fearful, or stressed in social situations. This can include crowded areas, interactions with other dogs or people, or unfamiliar environments. It’s not always easy to identify social anxiety in your dog, as the signs can start off subtle, like panting, drooling, or your dog being quieter than usual. Nipping Avoiding Eye Contact or Hiding Aggression Excessive Panting or Drooling Excessive Barking Trembling Pacing or Restlessness Ears Pinned Back and Wide Eyes are some common signs to watch for. A dog suffering from social anxiety may struggle with: Difficulty Socialising: Leading to isolation and increased anxiety. Aggression: This can be a dangerous outcome of social anxiety. Chronic Stress: Prolonged anxiety can lead to chronic stress, which can negatively impact a dog’s physical health, including their immune and digestion system.

Dogs with social anxiety may exhibit a range of behaviors when faced with new people, animals, or unfamiliar environments. Common signs include excessive barking, whining, or growling, along with physical symptoms like trembling, cowering, or hiding. Your dog might also display signs of stress, such as excessive licking, pacing, or even destructive behavior. If you notice these behaviors, it’s essential to take them seriously and seek ways to address the underlying anxiety. Recognizing the signs of social anxiety in dogs is the first step towards helping them feel more at ease.