Decoding Dogs

dog laying down looking worried

I see anxious dogs every day as a dog behavior vet—here are 5 signs your dog is struggling with anxiety. If your dog shows these, they need help. 🧵👇

If this thread helped, ♥️ and share it! 🚀

Tell me: **When did you first realize your dog was anxious? What helped them?**👇

For expert advice, check www.abadog.com. In 🇦🇺 & 🇳🇿, I recommend companicalm.com for a vet-approved calming supplement. Always talk to your vet about behavior concerns. 💙🐶

barking dog

Sign 5: Reactivity
Highly anxious or fearful dogs have intense reactions to stressors. They might freeze, bark, lunge, or run. Whatever the response, it’s not about “bad behavior”—it’s an emotional reaction.

worried dog

Sign 4: Excessive licking & chewing
Dogs self-soothe like we do, using the only tool they have (their mouth). Some lick themselves raw, others chew objects or even swallow things they shouldn’t. It releases endorphins—but when it’s constant, it’s a red flag.

dog on choker chain leash, panting

Sign 3: Disobedience Isn’t Disobedience
Anxious dogs aren’t being “stubborn.” They’re too overwhelmed to focus. Fear hijacks their brain, making them prioritize survival over listening to you.

beagle looking at food bowl

Sign 2: Appetite Loss
Fear and anxiety shuts down hunger. I see this in dogs with separation anxiety, noise phobias, or leash reactivity. If your dog skips treats or meals when stressed, it’s a sign they’re struggling.

dog sleeping on lap

Sign 1: Sleep Problems
Dogs normally nap a lot. Anxious dogs stay on high alert, never fully relaxing. They might lie down but stay tense, ready to jump up at any sound. It’s exhausting for them—and for you.

dog laying down looking worried

I see anxious dogs every day as a dog behavior vet—here are 5 signs your dog is struggling with anxiety. If your dog shows these, they need help. 🧵👇

This is actually very rare, most dogs and cats don't barf when fearful, I have only seen a handful of cases in my career!

A people pleaser 😇 everyone loves dogs like this!

This is a dog that honestly loves going down the slide! There is no other explanation. With all the fake animal videos out there designed for engagement, it's nice to see the real deal 🤩

A beautiful looking dog! I love it when they hold their ears back like this, while looking straight at you. It's a sign they are trying their best to please you. This is appeasing body language. The way the dog is sitting, I would guess they were asked to sit for the picture. Very sweet!

Your dog's a good catch! My last dog always tried bless him, but only caught 1%.

Thanks! I will try to post here at least weekly for now.

This is what many people want to see on social media. Too bad it isn't real or natural, because people actually WANT this. Dog lovers, cat lovers, animal lovers, we all enjoy the closeness between people and nature. Sometimes, the pressures of virality push us to extremes though.

Allie, I'm sorry that happened to you, but the issue is you only hear from the angry ones, and quiet people like me see your helpful reply but often don't thank you.

I am in the process of setting up an account here.