How Anxiety in Dogs Can Express Itself— Beyond “Bad Behavior”

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Anxiety doesn’t always look like trembling or barking. Many anxious behaviors are misread as stubbornness, laziness, or even “being bad.” As a certified professional dog trainer and licensed veterinary technician, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly  stress signals are misunderstood. Let’s decode what your dog might really be  telling you.

6 Common Behaviors That Mask Anxiety

1. “Ignoring” You

Freezing or not responding to cues is often mistaken for stubbornness. In reality, it may be an anxiety freeze response—your dog is overwhelmed, not defiant.

2. Moving Slowly or Refusing to Walk

What looks like laziness may be fear of environmental stimuli—new surfaces, sounds, or smells.

3. Panting Without Heat

Panting is a common stress signal, especially when it happens in cool conditions.

4. Excessive Licking or Grooming

Interpreted as a quirk, these can be displacement behaviors caused by anxiety.

5. Over-the-Top Energy (Zoomies)

Sometimes it’s play—but it can also be nervous energy or a stress release.

6. “Perfect” Walking in Chaos

If your dog walks perfectly in chaotic settings (like a busy farmers market) but pulls or reacts in calmer settings, they may be shutting down, not suddenly obedient.

The Infamous “He’s Fine” — Shutdown vs. Calm

When a dog appears immobile or obedient in a stressful situation, we often  assume it’s calm. But that stillness can be shutdown, not relaxation. Look  for micro-signs: lip licking, averted gaze, frozen posture, tense body. These are  your dog’s way of saying they’re not okay.

Body Language Is Their Voice

Dogs communicate physically first. Learning to read their signals is essential for safe, respectful, and positive interactions.

The Fear-Anxiety-Stress (FAS) Scale

A simple guide to assess your dog’s stress level:

• 0 – Relaxed: Loose body, soft eyes, gentle wag

• 1–2 – Mild Concern: Slight lip lick, subtle head turn

• 3–4 – Moderate Stress: Panting, tail down, trembling

• 5 – Severe Distress: Freezing, frantic escape, prolonged shaking
  

Training is most effective at Levels 1–2.

The “Food is a Bribe” Myth — Debunked

Food is a communication tool, not a shortcut. A bribe is given before a known behavior to coerce; a reward is given after to reinforce. Professionals worldwide—from service dog trainers to zoo handlers—use food strategically because it’s humane, effective, and fast. Once reliable, you can fade to praise, toys, or privileges.

When to Seek Professional Support

Only a licensed veterinarian can diagnose clinical anxiety. If you notice anxious behaviors, a vet visit may be needed to rule out medical causes and explore treatment options. Addressing anxiety early improves quality of life for everyone, supports long-term health, and builds peace at home.

Anxiety can show up in many ways—some subtle, some obvious—and it’s not limited to public outings or specific triggers. One of the most common (and misunderstood) forms is separation anxiety—when a dog struggles with being alone. It’s a complex issue that deserves its own deep dive, so stay tuned for my upcoming article where we’ll break down what separation anxiety really is, what it isn’t, and how to help your dog feel safe when home alone.

Fear Free Resources You Can Access:

• Fear Free Happy Homes — free science-based strategies to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress at home and during vet visits.

• Fear Free Professionals Directory — find trainers, groomers, and vets trained in fear-reducing methods.