Dogs are often stereotyped as being happy-go-lucky and carefree, and many often are. But did you know that an awful lot of dogs are actually displaying signs of anxiety?
We all want to be the best dog owner and give our pups the best lives, filled with lots of love. However, despite our best efforts, a new study published in the Scientific Reports journal suggests that a huge 70% of dogs display anxiety-related behaviors, from compulsive licking to noise sensitivity to separation-related issues.
Separation anxiety is one of the most common forms of anxiety experienced by dogs. In extreme cases, it can be triggered when you leave the room, but more often it occurs when your dog’s left home alone or if you drop them off with the groomer, for example.
With noise sensitivity anxiety, the first trigger that comes to mind is probably fireworks – we know how much pets don’t like them (and here’s how to calm your dog during fireworks). But any unusual, loud, or high-pitched sounds can cause anxiety, from thunder during a storm to noises made by digital equipment.
Some dogs have social anxiety, while others can develop anxiety in older age due to cognitive changes. Some have guarding anxiety, and display aggression if someone approaches their space, food, or toys.
There are differences between sex and breed – female dogs are more likely to be fearful whereas male dogs are more likely to show aggression, for example – and it’s worth noting that a dog who displays a behavior related to anxiety may not have anxiety to the point where there’s a big impact on their daily life. However, the figures do make for worrying reading.
Dogs, like humans, can produce as much as 90% of their serotonin in their gut, and disruption to their gut microbiome can contribute to anxiety, as well as other issues like skin problems and digestive distress – here’s how to improve dog gut health for more information.
Because this can be caused by things like allergens, processed foods, and low-quality proteins, the vet-founded pet nutrition brand Omni is launching a range of gut-friendly and hypoallergenic foods. Each recipe, developed by vet Dr Guy Sandelowsky, uses novel proteins in order to reduce inflammation and support digestion, immunity, and behavior.
Read next: 5 things a trainer wishes people knew about anxious dogs
