Top 5 Most Anxious Dog Breeds

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from stress and anxiety. This can be due to a number of things, such as loud noises like fireworks, or being separated from their owner. It is possible to manage a dog’s anxiety, but it does take a lot more hard work and effort, to make sure that your pet is safe and happy.

How does anxiety manifest in dogs?

There are different types of anxiety found in dogs, and understanding what makes your dog anxious is the first step in knowing how to treat it. Some dogs suffer from separation anxiety, causing them to behave aggressively and uncontrollably when left alone. Others may have more generalized anxiety, where a change in routine or a new environment is enough to cause high levels of stress in your dog.

Here are 5 of the most anxious dog breeds:

• German & Australian Shepherds

German and Australian Shepherds are two very intelligent breeds of dogs. They are both used to being around people and other animals, so prolonged periods of isolation can cause separation anxiety to manifest. These dogs also need to be kept active, or they can also begin to show signs of stress and begin to behave destructively or aggressively. 

• Border Collie

Border Collies are anther incredibly intelligent breed and one that tends to have a large amount of energy. As a result, they require a lot of attention and stimulation, otherwise, they may become destructive in their behavior, a sign of anxiety in dogs. They can easily develop separation anxiety if they are not given enough attention. 

• Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are incredibly small dogs, and they tend to suffer from a more generalized form of anxiety a lot. Because they are so small, new environments or people pose a much larger threat to them, which can cause high levels of anxiety if they are not trained and socialized properly.

• Toy Poodle

Toy Poodles are another breed of dog that is very small, which tends to make them more anxious than their larger counterparts. Their temperament is generally very companionable, which can easily lead to separation anxiety and stress if they are not properly socialized to other people and if they are not given enough attention.

• Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever dogs are known for their love of being around people and other dogs. They are intelligent and incredibly curious, and they develop strong attachment bonds with those around them. Failing to meet their social needs can result in depression and anxiety, and hyper-attachment to owners.

Anxiety is not just caused by breed

Just because a certain breed of dog is prone to anxiety, it does not necessarily mean that your dog will experience this. Conversely, your dog might have very high levels of anxiety, yet it is a breed of dog that seldom shows signs of this disorder. Vets have also noted that dogs who have been fostered a lot, lived in a shelter for an extended period of time, or lived in multiple homes without consistent training are also very likely to experience anxiety. The constant disruption to their routine and change in owners can be a lot for dogs to handle, and some may struggle to adapt. But it is important to remember that each dog is completely unique, and with the right care and training, your dog’s anxiety can be easily cared for.