Every wag, whimper, or worried stare tells a story. This Dog Anxiety Awareness Week (5 to 11 May), we’re here to help you understand what your dog may be going through—and how to support them with care and calm.
Dog anxiety is more common than many pet parents realise. Triggers like separation, storms, loud noises, or changes in routine can affect your dog’s health and quality of life.
The good news? With the right support, it can be managed.
Let’s explore the signs of anxiety in dogs, common causes, and the calming solutions trusted by Aussie vets and loving pet parents.
🐾 What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?
Dogs are sensitive creatures, often affected by changes in their environment or daily routine. While every dog is different, here are some of the most common triggers:
- Being left alone (separation anxiety)
- Thunderstorms, fireworks, or loud noises
- Travel, vet visits, or grooming appointments
- New people, pets, or unfamiliar environments
- Boredom or lack of mental stimulation
- Past trauma or negative experiences
Some dogs may only experience anxiety occasionally, while others may struggle more regularly. Recognising their specific triggers is the first step to helping them feel safe.
🔍 Common Signs of Anxiety in Dogs
Dog anxiety can appear in physical, behavioural, or emotional ways. Look out for signs such as:
- Panting, pacing, or trembling
- Hiding or attempting to escape
- Excessive barking or whining
- Chewing, scratching, or destructive behaviour
- Loss of appetite
- Toileting accidents indoors
- Lip licking or yawning (when not tired)
If your dog shows these behaviours frequently, it’s likely they’re experiencing some form of anxiety.
🧠 How to Help an Anxious Dog Feel Calm Again
The good news is: you’re not alone—and neither is your dog. With consistent care, structure, and support, even highly anxious pups can learn to feel more relaxed and secure.
Here are six practical ways to help manage your dog’s anxiety:
✅ 1. Stick to a Gentle Routine
Dogs thrive on predictability. Keeping mealtimes, walks, and downtime consistent can help reduce stress and build a stronger sense of safety.
✅ 2. Use Vet-Recommended Calming Products
At Pet Chemist, we offer a carefully curated range of calming aids—science-backed, gentle, and vet-approved to help your dog feel more at ease:
🔹 Zylkene Anxiety & Behaviour Capsules
A natural, non-sedating supplement derived from casein.
✔️ Ideal for travel, new environments, or short-term stress.
🔹 Paw by Blackmores Calming Support
A natural supplement designed to support relaxation and reduce stress.
✔️ Perfect for helping your dog feel more at ease during stressful situations.
🔹 Pro Plan Calming Care Probiotic
A vet-formulated probiotic that promotes calm behaviour over time.
✔️ Ideal for dogs with ongoing anxiety or stress sensitivity.
🔹 Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser Kit
Mimics calming pheromones to help adult dogs feel secure.
✔️ Great for separation anxiety and environmental changes.
🔹 Thundershirt Anxiety Wrap
Applies gentle, constant pressure—like a calming hug.
✔️ Perfect for loud noises, visitors, or fireworks.
🔹 Vetalogica Hemp Clinical Calming Treats
Tasty soft chews with hemp and L-Tryptophan, made in Australia.
✔️ Supports daily calm without causing drowsiness.
🔹 SereniCare Calming Support Sachets
A calming powder for both dogs and cats—great for multi-pet households.
✔️ Convenient, versatile, and easy to mix with meals.
🔹 Natural Animal Solutions
Natural, effective treatments to help manage dog anxiety and stress.
✔️ Ideal for a holistic approach to pet wellness.
👉 Shop the full Dog Anxiety Support range
✅ 3. Create a Safe, Quiet Space
Set up a dedicated area in your home where your dog can retreat when they feel overwhelmed—complete with soft bedding, dim lighting, and limited noise.
🛏️ Check out our range of dog bedding and blankets to create the perfect comfort corner. For extra support, try the SASH Calming Dog Bed — designed to ease stress and support restful sleep.
✅ 4. Regular Exercise
Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever for dogs. A walk before you leave home can help burn off nervous energy and make it easier for them to settle when alone.
Aim for at least 30–60 minutes of daily exercise—whether it’s a walk, a game of fetch, or a quick tug-of-war. If you’re short on time, consider a trusted dog walker or daycare to help keep your pup active and relaxed.
Image courtesy of Mad Paws
✅ 5. Keep Their Mind Engaged
Mental stimulation can go a long way in helping your dog stay grounded. Try interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or LickiMats to turn anxious energy into calming focus—especially during grooming, crate time, or solo play.
✅ 6. Speak to Your Vet
If your dog’s anxiety is severe or getting worse, it’s important to speak with your vet. They can help create a tailored behaviour plan and explore prescription options if needed.
💬 Final Thought: You’re Not Alone—And Neither Is Your Dog
Anxiety is part of life for many dogs—but with your love and the right tools, it doesn’t have to control their life. Whether it’s a soft chew, a pheromone diffuser, or a calming wrap, there are gentle ways to bring peace back to their paws.
This Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, let’s raise awareness, spread understanding, and help our pets feel safe, calm, and loved—every single day.