Dogs are capable of experiencing and suffering from anxiety in much the same way people do. It can manifest in several unpleasant forms and behaviors. At North Central Animal Hospital, we are familiar with anxiety in dogs and can offer treatment that's tailored to the needs of your dog. Our veterinarian is here to answer your questions, explain what's going on with your dog, and offer advice on how to help your dog find relief from anxiety.

Why Dogs Experience Anxiety

There are several potential causes of anxiety in dogs. Sometimes, the nature of your dog makes him or her highly sensitive to stimulus. Other times, anxiety is the result of past trauma and is brought on by environmental triggers. The most common sources of dog anxiety are thunderstorms, fireworks, separation anxiety, and aging. A dog can experience anxiety as a result of one source or multiple sources, which can make it difficult for a dog owner to determine the cause of anxious behavior.

Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

It is not difficult to notice when a dog is having an anxiety attack, although some dogs will attempt to disguise their discomfort. You might see anything from drooling to dog seizures that look like epilepsy. Some of the symptoms of dog anxiety include:

• Aggressive behavior 
• Depression
• Barking more than normal
• Restlessness
• Panting
• Drooling or salivating
• Defecating in the house
• Hiding
• Repetitive actions
• Grooming hot spot on the body
• Seizures

A dog can exhibit one or more of these behaviors in response to an anxiety trigger. You should seek help from a veterinarian even if the symptoms seem mild. The more you know about your dog's anxiety, the better you can help them and prevent severe behavioral episodes and dog seizures.

Treating Dog Anxiety

Many options are available for the treatment of anxiety in dogs. These options include the use of medications, exercise as a form of therapy, and several drug-free treatments. Some dogs respond well to treatment without the use of medication while others need medical intervention to get symptoms under control. Always start with a trip to the veterinarian to get the best possible treatment plan for your dog's anxiety. 

Call us Today at North Central Animal Hospital for an Appointment

At North Central Animal Hospital, we have years of experience providing residents of Phoenix, AZ, with dog anxiety treatments. For more information about anxiety, seizures, or to schedule an appointment, call us at (602) 395-9773.