Wondering if your dog will “grow out of” anxiety? Or if a sit-stay will solve their fear of strangers? This Q&A episode clears up the most common misunderstandings about anxiety in dogs and gives you the tools to actually help.
Allie, Emily, and Ellen break down the difference between anxiety, fear, and reactivity; why breed stereotypes don’t dictate destiny; and how to tell if your dog’s “happy” behavior might actually be stress in disguise. You’ll also hear why some well-meaning training advice can make things worse and what to do instead to set your dog (and yourself) up for calmer, more confident days.
TLDL (too long, didn’t listen):
1️⃣ Anxiety ≠ Fear ≠ Reactivity – Anxiety is anticipation, fear is reaction, and reactivity can be rooted in many things (including excitement). They look different, and they call for different kinds of support.
2️⃣ Play isn’t always “happy” – Species-typical behaviors can be fueled by stress, so look for tension and avoidance before assuming needs are met.
3️⃣ Training choices matter – Basic obedience or “just let them get over it” approaches rarely help. Instead, focus on meeting needs, building coping skills, and creating a safe, predictable environment.
Links & Resources from the Episode
🧾 For full episode transcripts: Arial | OpenDyslexic
🎧 Episode #120 - Why Your Pet Needs a Safe Space (and How to Make One)
📚 Gardening, Wasps, and Anxiety
✅ Let me sniff! Nosework induces positive judgment bias in pet dogs
🎧 Episode #112 - Try It: Teach Your Dog "Find It" From Scratch
For the full episode show notes, including the resources mentioned in this episode, go here.
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