If you’ve ever had a dog who seemed nervous, clingy, or just a bit “off,” you’re not alone. According to research, many dogs experience anxiety, and just like people, some breeds are more prone to it than others. Whether it’s separation anxiety, noise phobia, or general nervousness, some pups just seem to wear their nerves on their paws. If you’re an owner of one of these breeds, you’re probably all too familiar with those anxious moments. Here’s a look at the 20 most anxiety-prone dog breeds, based on their personality traits and predispositions.
1. Border Collie
Border Collies are known for being incredibly intelligent and energetic. While their smarts make them amazing working dogs, they can also lead to anxiety when they’re not mentally stimulated enough. Without a job to do, these dogs get bored and become anxious, often showing destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, or incessantly barking. Border Collies also tend to experience separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to their owners. To keep a Border Collie happy, it’s essential to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental challenges, like puzzle toys or obedience training. The more active and engaged you keep them, the less anxious they’ll become.
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and strong work ethic, but these traits can sometimes contribute to anxiety. Highly sensitive to their environment, they can become anxious when left alone for extended periods, which often leads to destructive behaviors. Separation anxiety is particularly common in this breed, as they bond closely with their families. German Shepherds are also sensitive to sudden changes in their routine or environment, such as moving to a new house or a new family member. Routine, socialization, and consistent training are key in helping them feel secure.
3. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are sweet, friendly dogs that love human companionship, which can sometimes lead to anxiety when they’re left alone. These small dogs thrive on attention and affection, and when separated from their families, they can experience stress and show signs of separation anxiety. Excessive barking, destructive chewing, and restlessness are some common signs that a Bichon Frise is feeling anxious. They can also be sensitive to loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, which might trigger fear. Providing a stable, comforting environment and plenty of attention is essential for keeping their anxiety in check.
4. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are affectionate, gentle, and social dogs, but they can also be quite anxious, particularly if they don’t receive enough socialization or attention. They are sensitive to changes in their environment and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They may whine, bark excessively, or even destroy furniture when feeling stressed. Like many dogs prone to anxiety, Cocker Spaniels also don’t handle loud noises very well and may become fearful during thunderstorms or fireworks. Early socialization and exposure to various environments can help them feel more confident and less anxious.
5. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are known for being friendly, loyal, and incredibly sociable dogs, but they can also be prone to anxiety. Labradors require a lot of attention, physical exercise, and mental stimulation, and without these, they can become anxious. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods or if their routine changes. Additionally, Labradors are sensitive to environmental changes, such as moving to a new home or a change in their owner’s schedule. Keeping a Labrador’s life predictable and engaging is crucial in preventing anxiety from becoming a problem.
6. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas may be small in size, but their anxiety levels can be surprisingly high. These little dogs tend to be very vocal, and their anxiety often manifests as excessive barking or whining, especially when they feel threatened or scared. Chihuahuas can become very attached to their owners and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone. They are also sensitive to loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, which can make them anxious and fearful. Chihuahuas need consistent training, socialization, and reassurance to help build their confidence and alleviate their nervous tendencies.
7. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are energetic, curious, and intelligent dogs that love to be active. However, their high energy and keen minds mean that when they’re not mentally or physically stimulated, they can become anxious. Without enough exercise or a consistent routine, Jack Russells can become destructive, engaging in behaviors like digging, chewing, or excessive barking. Separation anxiety can also be an issue for this breed, as they form strong bonds with their families. To keep your Jack Russell calm, it’s essential to provide them with plenty of daily activity, both physical and mental.
8. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are known for their intelligence, agility, and high energy, which make them excellent working dogs. However, this same drive can lead to anxiety if they don’t have enough to do. These dogs require a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep their minds busy. Without it, they may develop anxiety, often manifesting as destructive behaviors or hyperactivity. Australian Shepherds also suffer from separation anxiety and may feel stressed when left alone. Regular exercise, socialization, and consistent training can help manage their anxiety and keep them calm and happy.
9. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are known for being sweet, affectionate lap dogs, but they can also be prone to anxiety, particularly when separated from their owners. This breed thrives on companionship, and when left alone for long periods, they can experience separation anxiety, which can lead to barking, whining, and even destructive behavior. Shih Tzus are also sensitive to changes in their environment, which can make them anxious in unfamiliar situations. Socializing them from a young age and maintaining a consistent routine can help reduce their stress and increase their sense of security.
10. Poodle
Poodles are incredibly intelligent and trainable, but like many smart dogs, they can develop anxiety if not properly stimulated. These dogs crave human interaction and attention, and when they’re left alone for too long, they can become anxious. Poodles are also sensitive to environmental changes and can become nervous around new situations or unfamiliar people. Anxiety in Poodles can lead to behaviors like excessive barking, pacing, or destructive chewing. Keeping them engaged with mental challenges, regular exercise, and plenty of affection can help manage their anxiety levels.
11. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, though small in stature, can have surprisingly high anxiety levels. These feisty little dogs are incredibly devoted to their owners and often form strong bonds with them. Because of this, they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Yorkshire Terriers are also highly sensitive to unfamiliar sounds, strangers, or changes in their environment, which can make them nervous. However, their anxiety can be managed with consistent training, early socialization, and lots of love from their family. A steady routine and reassurance from their owners can go a long way in easing their fears.
12. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their affectionate nature and love of cuddling with their families. However, this breed can be prone to anxiety, especially separation anxiety. Cavaliers are extremely loyal and often develop a strong attachment to their owners, which can result in them becoming distressed when left alone for too long. Their anxiety can also be triggered by changes in their environment, loud noises, or unfamiliar people. By providing early socialization, maintaining a consistent routine, and showering them with love and attention, you can help ease their anxiety and help them feel secure in their surroundings.
13. Dachshund
Dachshunds may be small, but they have a bold and confident personality that can sometimes lead to anxiety. Known for being vocal, they can become excessively barky or destructive if they feel stressed. These little dogs are also prone to anxiety if they feel threatened or insecure, whether it’s due to loud noises or the presence of unfamiliar people. Early socialization and plenty of positive reinforcement are essential to helping Dachshunds cope with anxiety. Providing them with regular exercise and establishing a calm, stable routine can also make a big difference in helping them feel safe and comfortable.
14. Beagle
Beagles are friendly, energetic, and sociable dogs, but their outgoing nature can also make them prone to anxiety. Being pack animals, Beagles tend to get stressed when they’re left alone for long periods or when their daily routine is disrupted. They can also become nervous around unfamiliar people, sounds, or places, which may lead to excessive barking or destructive behavior. To help reduce their anxiety, Beagles benefit from consistent socialization, exercise, and a predictable routine. Offering plenty of attention and mental stimulation will help them feel secure and more relaxed in new environments.
15. Pug
Pugs are affectionate, lovable companions who are often known for their laid-back attitude. However, they can be prone to anxiety, particularly when they don’t receive enough attention or interaction from their owners. Separation anxiety is common in Pugs, and they may become distressed if left alone for too long. Their anxiety may manifest through whining, panting, and excessive barking, especially in new or unfamiliar environments. To manage their anxiety, it’s important to provide them with consistent attention, maintain a predictable routine, and offer plenty of affection to make them feel secure.
16. Greyhound
While Greyhounds are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, they can still suffer from anxiety, particularly when faced with new or unfamiliar situations. These dogs are highly sensitive to changes in their environment and can become anxious if their routine is disrupted. Loud noises, unfamiliar people, or new environments can trigger anxiety in Greyhounds. Being creatures of habit, they thrive in a consistent, calm environment. Providing them with a stable home life, plenty of exercise, and time to adjust to new situations will help them manage their stress levels and feel more comfortable.
17. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are strong, independent dogs that can form deep attachments to their families. However, this loyalty can sometimes lead to anxiety, particularly if they are left alone for extended periods. Malamutes thrive on social interaction and can become stressed when they’re isolated or bored. They are also sensitive to changes in their environment or routine, which can make them prone to anxiety. Providing these large, energetic dogs with plenty of attention, regular exercise, and mental stimulation is key to helping them feel secure and alleviate any anxiety they may experience.
18. Samoyed
Samoyeds are friendly, affectionate dogs with a love for human companionship, but they can also be prone to anxiety. These dogs tend to develop separation anxiety when left alone for too long, as they are highly social and love being around their families. Samoyeds can also be sensitive to changes in their environment, including loud noises or unfamiliar situations, which can cause them to become anxious. To help reduce their anxiety, it’s important to keep them socialized, maintain a consistent routine, and provide plenty of attention and reassurance to make them feel safe and secure.
19. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants known for their calm and loving nature. However, even these large, sturdy dogs can suffer from anxiety. They are deeply attached to their families and can become anxious when separated from them for too long. They are also sensitive to loud noises, such as thunderstorms, and new environments, which can trigger anxiety. Newfoundlands are very in tune with their owners’ emotions, so if their humans are feeling stressed or anxious, their Newfoundland may also pick up on those feelings. To help them cope, maintaining a steady routine, providing reassurance, and offering plenty of positive interactions can alleviate their anxiety.
20. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are typically laid-back, affectionate dogs, but they are also prone to anxiety, especially when they’re not getting enough attention from their owners. This breed can suffer from separation anxiety, often becoming distressed when left alone. French Bulldogs are also highly sensitive to changes in their environment, such as unfamiliar places or new people, which can cause them to feel nervous. Additionally, they can be affected by temperature fluctuations, which sometimes exacerbate their anxiety. A consistent routine, lots of one-on-one attention, and a calm environment can help keep their anxiety under control and allow them to thrive.