Do you have an anxious dog? Here’s some tips and solutions!

If you have an anxious dog, you are not alone. Over 70% of dogs in the UK are believed to have some form of anxiety. This could be in various forms: social anxiety, separation anxiety, noise anxiety, or travel anxiety. It is important to remind yourself that you (as the dog owner) did not cause the anxiety. Here are some tips to help ease your dog’s anxiety to make them more comfortable:

1.      Recognise the Signs of Anxiety

First up, let’s explore the common signs of anxiety you may see in your dog. Some are more obvious than others, so getting clued up on the more subtle signs can help you greatly in supporting your dog before things develop. 

• Panting (when not hot), shaking or quivering, lip licking, yawning (when not tired), tucked tail or crouching, turning away (head or body), stiffening up or freezing, ears pinned back or low, whites of eyes showing (also known as whale eye), barking, lunging, growling, snapping

If you notice these signs, take steps to reassure and support them.

2. Minimise Triggers & Introduce Gradual Exposure

Helping your dog build confidence takes time and patience. Try these approaches:

• For fear of other dogs or people: Start with distance and slowly reduce it over time, ensuring they stay calm and comfortable. It’s also okay to say no if someone asks to approach your dog, your priority is your dog and not that person's feelings.
• For noise sensitivity (fireworks, storms, sirens): Use white noise, soft background music, or a calming soundtrack to help mask the sounds.
• For anxiety in new places: Bring familiar items, like their favourite blanket or toy, to create a sense of security.

3. Provide Daily Exercise & Mental Stimulation with enrichment

Physical and mental activity can help ease anxiety and build confidence:

• Take daily walks in quieter areas if they find busy places overwhelming. Remember a calmer walk can start with Yellow, giving an anxious dog space can make all the difference. 
• Engage in interactive play. Games can help your dog to be more confident and there are specific confidence building games you can play with your dog to grow their courage and combat nerves.  4 easy games to build your dog’s confidence & combat nerves – My Anxious Dog

 

4. Create a Predictable, Calming Routine

Dogs feel more secure when they know what to expect. Establish a routine by:

• Feeding, walking, and settling them at consistent times each day to create stability.
• Easing separation anxiety gradually by leaving them alone for short periods and increasing the duration over time.

 

5. Consider Natural Supplements

Sometimes, despite all efforts, dogs still need extra support.

-          Natural calming aids like PAWD Calming can help dogs feel more at ease without making them drowsy. These liquid supplements have been formulated by vets and are a great natural way to reduce anxieties.

-          Being a liquid, they are more efficient and effective than traditional pill supplements or chews!

-          A great option for travel, fireworks, vet visits, or social settings where anxiety may spike.

Why ‘Dogs in Yellow’ Matters This March

Have you ever seen a dog wearing yellow? If so, do you know why?

Dogs wear yellow accessories to signal that they need space. Whether due to anxiety, nervousness, or other reasons. 

On 20th March 2025, we celebrate Dogs in Yellow, a day dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding for these dogs.

What is #DogsinYellow?

#DogsInYellow was created by My Anxious Dog to help people recognise that dogs wearing yellow need space.

There are many reasons a dog may be wearing yellow. They might feel uneasy around people or other dogs, be in training, recovering from an illness, or experiencing pain. Some dogs have experienced trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or attacks, which can lead to PTSD-like anxiety. Just like humans, dogs can carry emotional scars, and their yellow accessories are a way of saying, please respect my space.

By understanding what yellow means, we can help create safer and more comfortable experiences for anxious dogs and their owners.

For more information on the #dogsinyellow campaign visit Your free Yellow Army downloads – My Anxious Dog