We’ve come a long way in understanding how the human psyche works. What, back in the age before the Enlightenment, would’ve been passed off as something supernatural, making claims of possession, is now explained by science as a psychological disorder.

This awareness we have about mental disorders extends throughout the spectrum, from issues common and uncommon, and we as a civilisation have become more sensitive to mental health than ever before. Good job. We can now openly express feelings of anxiety, fear and depression without judgement and get the help that we need and deserve.

However, being anxious isn’t really a trait unique to us humans. The only difference is that we can use words to communicate this unpleasant feeling. Our furry little friends, on the other hand, aren’t able to communicate with us using words from our languages. However, whilst they may not speak our tongue, they do communicate in their own way, and it is the duty of every pet parent to pick up on the signs they drop. If you’re looking for ways to support them, especially when they show signs of distress when left alone, it’s worth exploring tips for managing separation anxiety in dogs. Let’s find out what they look like and how you can help.

Understanding What It Means to be Anxious 

Let’s begin by talking about how most individuals confuse anxiety and being anxious with one another. If someone is anxious, that doesn’t mean they have anxiety. However, if someone has anxiety, they will feel anxious when it hits.

To break it down further, being anxious is a feeling of worry whereas anxiety is a mental condition where these feelings of being anxious are persistent and interfere with one’s daily life.

So, if your dog shows any of the signs below, and these signs are universal, applying to all dogs, from a big German Shepherd to a tiny Cavapoo puppy, understand that it doesn’t necessarily mean they have anxiety. They might just be feeling anxious, which is unpleasant, surely, but still a completely normal emotion.

Signs Your Dog is Anxious

As a pet parent, you must observe your dog’s natural state of being. Normally, dogs have a fairly relaxed body language. Weight on all legs, rounded eyes, normal breathing pattern, ears forward, raised tail (not between the legs). When they’re anxious, however, they may exhibit the following symptoms:

Yawning

You may scream “big yawn” at your dog when they take one, but it isn’t always an indication of a sleepy boy. Sometimes, their nervousness manifests itself in the form of a long and pronounced yawn; one much longer than their tired one.

Destructive Behaviour

Compulsive or destructive behaviour in dogs is one of the major red flags to watch out for. Chewed shoes. Scratched doors. A torn-up cushion while you were gone for ten minutes. All of it isn’t merely entertaining for the dog, they’re exhibiting their discomfort.
When a usually well-behaved pet starts destroying things, don’t write it off as them being “bad.” It might be their way of coping with separation anxiety or fear.

Drooling

Drooling is normal for dogs. If Labradoodle, you might know that all too well. However, if your dog is drooling excessively, you might want to investigate a bit. You see, a dog’s nervous system is linked to their salivary glands. When a pup is stressed or anxious, they’ll start drooling. They might start lip-smacking. You’d want to learn how to stop excessive drooling as a responsible pet parent if you think it is getting out of hand. It is one of the main triggers for allergies. 

Clinginess or Hiding

An anxious pup can exhibit two extremely opposite behaviours. On the one side, they may refuse to leave your side and follow you around, room to room. They might resort to panicking, barking or indulging in destructive behaviour when you leave the house.

On the other side of things, they may retreat. They’ll find furniture to get under or behind and avoid contact. They may even completely shut down and seem depressed. None of these are the dogs acting “naughty.” It’s usually fear. If your pet is acting differently and clinging or hiding more than usual, it’s worth paying attention.

Doing Business Indoors

It isn’t common for dogs that are potty trained to go about relieving themselves indoors. Dogs are smart animals, they understand, once trained, that there are designated spots for going about their business. However, under stress, during an anxious phase, they might just hit the pose and urinate or lose control over their bowels.

Other symptoms include:

• Shaking
• Pacing
• Tail between their legs
• Aggression
• Increased heart rate
• Excessive panting
• Dilated pupils
• Stiff posture
• Shedding

How You Can Help

First, know that you’re not alone, and neither is your pet. Anxiety in animals is incredibly common. The key is to respond with calm, patience, and gentle consistency.

• Create a predictable routine. Pets thrive on knowing what’s coming next.
• Use calming aids if needed. Things like pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or calming beds can make a real difference.
• Offer a safe space. A quiet corner, a crate, or even a soft blanket they can retreat to can offer comfort.
• Avoid punishment. It doesn’t reduce anxiety. In fact, it often makes it worse.
• Speak with your vet. If anxiety is severe or persistent, they may suggest further help, including behaviour therapy or medication in some cases. Pet insurance can help you save thousands.

And remember, reassurance matters. Sometimes, just sitting nearby while they settle can do more than you think.

Conclusion

It all boils down to empathy. Similar to us, dogs, too, get anxious. Similar to how one would learn how to pick up on the signs of a beloved and the signs they omit when they’re feeling low, pet parents must do the same and learn how to tackle them effectively. This will ensure your dog stays happy and has a comforting hand holding their paw during times of trouble.