Anxiety in Golden Retrievers: Symptoms, Causes, & Solutions

Anxiety in golden retrievers isn’t just a minor issue, it’s a real challenge that many dog parents face with their canine companions. Although golden retrievers are known for their cheerful and loving nature, sometimes they can feel anxious and stressed.

Anxiety in golden retrievers often stems from separation, genetics, environmental changes, or past trauma. Symptoms include excessive barking, destructive behavior, and restlessness. Managing anxiety involves behavioral training, a stable environment, regular exercise, and sometimes professional help or medication.

This article will guide you through what causes anxiety in golden retrievers, its symptoms, mistakes pet parents make, and the best ways to help them feel more relaxed and secure.

Table of Contents

What is Anxiety in Golden Retrievers?

Anxiety in golden retrievers is a condition where these dogs experience stress and nervousness.

This can be caused by factors such as separation from owners, loud noises, or unfamiliar environments.

Golden retriever anxiety symptoms can vary.

You might notice signs like constant pacing, excessive barking, destructive behavior when left alone, or even changes in bodily functions.

Are Golden Retrievers Prone to Anxiety?

Do golden retrievers have anxiety?

Yes, golden retrievers can be prone to anxiety.

This breed is known for its sensitivity and strong desire for companionship, making them more susceptible to conditions like separation anxiety.

Environmental changes, loud noises, and lack of socialization or exercise can also contribute to anxiety in golden retrievers.

Do Golden Retrievers Have Separation Anxiety?

Yes, golden retrievers can experience separation anxiety.

In fact, separation anxiety is diagnosed in 20% to 40% of dogs that are brought to specialty behavior clinics for treatment.

This breed is known for being particularly sociable, affectionate, and loyal, which makes them more prone to developing anxiety when separated from their owners.

Golden retrievers often form strong bonds with their family members and can become distressed or anxious when left alone.

Symptoms of Anxiety in Golden Retrievers

Symptoms of anxiety in golden retrievers can vary but typically include behaviors that indicate distress or nervousness.

Here are some common signs of anxiety in golden retrievers:

Aggressive Chewing or Digging

This behavior often indicates stress or boredom.

Dogs might chew on furniture and shoes or dig in the yard or house as a way to cope with anxiety.

RECOMMENDED READING: Do Golden Retrievers Dig?

ALSO READ: Do Golden Retrievers Chew A Lot?

Excessive Loudness

Barking or howling more than usual, especially in situations like being left alone, can be a sign of distress.

RELATED: Do Golden Retrievers Howl?

Hiding or Running Away

Seeking isolation or attempting to escape from home or the yard can indicate fear or discomfort in certain situations.

Restlessness

Inability to relax, constantly moving, or pacing can be a sign that a dog is feeling anxious or stressed.

Self-Destruction

In severe cases, dogs might harm themselves by biting or scratching to the point of injury, often as a response to extreme anxiety.

Shivers

Trembling or shaking, especially during situations like thunderstorms or fireworks, can be a physical manifestation of fear or anxiety.

Excessive Licking or Grooming

Over-grooming to the point of causing bald patches or skin irritation can be a sign of anxiety.

Changes in Appetite

Eating significantly less or more than usual, or changes in eating habits can be a response to stress.

Panting and Drooling

Excessive panting and drooling, especially in the absence of heat or physical exertion, can indicate anxiety.

RECOMMENDED READING: Do Golden Retrievers Pant A Lot?

Changes in Body Posture

Showing submissive body language like cowering, tail tucking, or ears back can be signs of fear or anxiety.

Accidents Indoors

House-trained dogs having frequent accidents inside the house may be experiencing anxiety.

Whining or Barking

Persistent whining or barking, often at seemingly nothing, can be a vocal expression of anxiety.

Types of Anxiety in Golden Retrievers

Golden retrievers, like other dogs, can experience various types of anxiety, each with its own causes and manifestations.

Understanding these can help in effectively managing and treating their anxiety. Here are the types:

Discomfort or fear in social situations involving other dogs or people. Your golden retriever may become withdrawn or aggressive.

Agoraphobia

Fear of open or crowded spaces. Dogs may refuse to go outside or seem overly anxious when in open areas.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Chronic anxiety without a specific focus. Symptoms can be constant and include restlessness, excessive barking, and pacing.

Noise Phobia

Extreme fear of loud noises like thunder, fireworks, or construction sounds. Your golden may panic, shake, or try to escape.

According to a study, noise sensitivity is identified as the most common anxiety-related trait, with a prevalence of 32% among 13,700 Finnish pet dogs.

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety in golden retrievers is distress and anxiety when separated from family members.

Golden retriever separation anxiety symptoms include destructive behavior, barking, and accidents indoors.

As per research, separation-related behaviors are common in companion dogs and rank as the second most common reason for referral to behavior specialists, after aggression.

This occurs in response to specific triggers like certain people, animals, or situations. Your dog may exhibit fear or aggressive behaviors.

Common in older dogs, possibly linked to cognitive decline, leading to confusion and anxiety in familiar settings.

Travel Anxiety

Anxiety associated with car rides or travel. Symptoms can include drooling, shaking, or vomiting during car rides.

RECOMMENDED READING: Do Golden Retrievers Drool?

Veterinary Visit Anxiety

Fear or stress related to vet visits. Dogs may become tense, try to hide, or show aggression at the vet’s office.

Stranger Anxiety

Anxiety or fear when encountering unfamiliar people. Dogs may bark excessively, hide, or act defensively.

Environmental Anxiety

Caused by changes in the environment, like moving to a new home or changes in the household. Your dog may become withdrawn or exhibit destructive behaviors.

Resource Guarding Anxiety

Anxiety related to the possession of food, toys, or other resources. Dogs may growl, snap, or bite if they feel their resources are threatened.

Handling Anxiety

Discomfort or fear when being touched or handled, often due to past negative experiences. Your golden retriever may resist grooming or veterinary examinations.

Causes of Anxiety in Golden Retrievers

“Why is my golden retriever so anxious?” is a question many owners ask when they notice signs of anxiety in their pets.

Various factors can contribute to anxiety in golden retrievers, and understanding these causes is crucial in helping them feel more secure and happy.

Here are some of the common causes.

Genetics: Just like humans, dogs can inherit a predisposition to anxiety. Some golden retrievers may be genetically more prone to anxiety than others.

Past Experiences: Traumatic past events, such as abuse, neglect, or abandonment, can leave a lasting impact, leading to anxiety.

Lack of Socialization: Insufficient exposure to different people, animals, and environments during their early developmental stages can result in anxiety in unfamiliar situations.

Pain or Illness: Chronic pain or illnesses can cause discomfort and stress, manifesting as anxiety.

Dietary Problems: An improper diet lacking essential nutrients or causing stomach discomfort can contribute to anxious behaviors.

Inactivity: Golden retrievers are an active breed and need regular exercise. Lack of physical activity can lead to pent-up energy and anxiety.

Loss of a Loved One: The death or absence of a family member or another pet can cause grief and anxiety in dogs.

New Environments: Moving to a new home or significant changes in their living environment can be stressful and cause anxiety.

Alterations in Daily Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, and unexpected changes in their daily schedule can lead to anxiety.

Unfamiliar and Frightening Experiences: Encounters with unfamiliar or scary situations, like loud noises or strange animals, can trigger anxiety.

Remember, each dog is unique, and what causes anxiety in one golden retriever might not affect another in the same way.

How to Treat and Manage Anxiety in Golden Retrievers?

Addressing the question, “How to treat anxiety in golden retrievers?” involves a combination of strategies to help manage and reduce their anxiety.

Here are some strategies if you’re wondering how to stop anxiety in golden retrievers.

1. Stay Calm

As a pet owner, your golden retriever looks to you for cues on how to react and behave.

If you remain calm and composed, especially in situations that trigger your dog’s anxiety, it can significantly help in soothing them.

Your calm behavior acts as a reassurance to your dog, signaling that there’s no threat or reason to be anxious.

2. Remove Them from the Situation

When dealing with anxiety in golden retrievers, it’s crucial to recognize and respond to the situations that trigger their anxiety.

If your dog becomes anxious in specific environments or scenarios, gently removing them from that setting can help.

This action not only provides immediate relief but also prevents the situation from escalating their anxiety further.

It’s important to do this calmly and reassuringly, ensuring that your golden retriever feels safe.

Over time, this approach can also help them learn that they can trust you to protect them from stressful situations, which can gradually reduce their overall anxiety levels.

3. Physical Contact

Gentle petting or cuddling can provide a sense of security and calmness to an anxious dog.

RECOMMENDED READING: Do Golden Retrievers Like to Cuddle?

This physical contact helps release oxytocin, a stress-reducing hormone, both in humans and dogs, fostering a deeper bond and a feeling of safety.

However, it’s important to be mindful of your dog’s preferences.

Some may seek close contact during anxious moments, while others might prefer a little space.

Observing and respecting your golden retriever’s comfort levels with physical touch is key to effectively using this method for managing anxiety.

4. Calming Products

There are various products available that can help in managing anxiety in golden retrievers.

However, you must consult with a vet before introducing any new supplement or product to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your golden retriever’s specific health needs.

Here’s a breakdown:

Experiment with Hemp Oil

Hemp oil, known for its calming properties, can be used to help soothe anxiety.

It’s important to choose a high-quality product designed specifically for pets and start with a low dose, monitoring your dog’s response.

Use of Compression Wrap

Compression wraps or anxiety vests work by applying gentle, constant pressure on the dog’s body, which can have a calming effect.

They are particularly useful during events like thunderstorms or fireworks.

Herbal Supplements

Natural supplements containing herbs like Chamomile, Passion Flower, Ginger Root, and Valerian Root can be used to reduce anxiety.

These herbs are known for their calming effects but consult with your vet before starting any herbal supplement.

Pheromone Diffuser

Pheromone diffusers release dog-appeasing pheromones, which can help to relax and comfort your dog in stressful situations.

They mimic the pheromones mother dogs release to calm their puppies.

Dog-appeasing pheromone has been reported to alleviate anxiety caused by separation.

Anti-Anxiety Supplements

Supplements containing L-Tryptophan, L-Theanine, or Melatonin can be used to manage anxiety.

These substances can help in promoting relaxation and better sleep.

Again, it’s important to consult with your vet for appropriate dosages and products.

5. Exercise

Golden retrievers are naturally active and require ample physical activity to maintain their health and happiness.

Regular exercise burns off excess energy, stimulates your golden’s mind, increases serotonin levels for stress reduction, and strengthens the bond between dog and owner, all contributing to a calmer, less anxious dog.

The type of exercise can include walks, runs, fetch games, swimming, or agility training – anything that gets your golden retriever moving and expending energy.

RECOMMENDED READING: Do Golden Retrievers Like Water?

6. One-On-One Time

Spending dedicated one-on-one time with your golden retriever is crucial for alleviating anxiety.

This focused attention strengthens your bond, reassures your dog of your presence and care, and provides them with the emotional support they need to feel secure and loved.

7. Music Therapy

Playing calming music can have a soothing effect on anxious golden retrievers.

Gentle, classical music, or specially composed dog relaxation music, can help reduce stress and create a peaceful environment, especially in potentially anxiety-inducing situations like when they’re left alone.

8. Aromatherapy

Using certain scents can have a calming effect on an anxious golden retriever.

Essential oils like lavender or chamomile, when used safely and in dog-appropriate formulations, can help to soothe anxiety and promote relaxation in dogs.

Always ensure the aromatherapy products are pet-safe and used in a way that doesn’t overwhelm your golden retriever’s sensitive sense of smell.

9. Creating a Safe Space

Establishing a designated area in your home where your golden retriever can feel secure and relaxed is vital for managing their anxiety.

This safe space should be a quiet, comfortable spot where they can retreat to when feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

It can be a cozy bed, a crate with soft bedding, or a secluded corner with their favorite toys.

10. Grooming and Massage

Regular grooming and gentle massage can be very comforting for an anxious golden retriever.

Not only do these activities help in maintaining their physical well-being, but the soothing touch also helps in reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Massaging your canine companion can strengthen your bond and provide a sense of security, while grooming can be a calming ritual that helps alleviate anxiety.

11. Mental Stimulation

Activities like puzzle toys, scent games, and training exercises keep your golden retriever’s mind engaged and prevent boredom, which can contribute to anxiety.

These activities also help in channeling their energy into positive, fulfilling tasks, reducing stress, and promoting a sense of accomplishment.

12. Dog Sports and Activities

Activities like agility training, dock diving, flyball, or even advanced obedience classes provide physical exercise, mental stimulation, and an opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and your golden retriever.

These sports channel their energy into structured, enjoyable activities, reducing stress and providing a sense of purpose and achievement.

13. Meet Your Golden Retriever’s Needs

Ensuring that all of your golden retriever’s fundamental needs are met is crucial in managing anxiety.

This includes providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a consistent routine, offering adequate exercise, and ensuring they receive love and attention.

Meeting these basic needs creates a stable, secure environment, reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.

14. Stick to a Routine

A predictable schedule for meals, walks, playtime, and rest helps to provide a sense of security and stability, which can be especially comforting for dogs prone to anxiety.

Consistency in their daily activities can significantly help in minimizing stress and anxiety triggers.

15. Desensitization & Counter-Conditioning

This technique involves gradually exposing your golden retriever to the source of their anxiety in a controlled, low-stress way, and rewarding them for calm behavior.

Over time, this method helps reduce their anxious response by creating positive associations with the previously anxiety-inducing stimulus.

Desensitization must be done slowly and patiently, often with the guidance of a professional trainer or behaviorist for the best results.

For example, if your golden retriever has separation anxiety, you can begin by preparing to leave the house but without actually leaving – pick up your keys, put on your coat, and then sit down again.

Reward your dog for staying calm.

Repeat this process, gradually increasing the actions that signal your departure (like opening the door or stepping outside for a moment) while always returning quickly and rewarding calm behavior.

This process helps your golden retriever learn that your departure isn’t something to fear and that you will return.

16. Regular Vet Check-ups

Regular vet check-ups can help identify any underlying health issues that might be contributing to anxious behavior.

A vet can also provide advice on anxiety management and recommend treatments if necessary, ensuring your golden retriever maintains optimal physical and emotional health.

17. Seek Professional Guidance

Seeking help from professionals like vets, animal behaviorists, or certified dog trainers can be crucial in effectively managing and treating anxiety in golden retrievers.

These experts can offer tailored advice, specific training techniques, and sometimes medication if required.

Their guidance ensures that the approach to treating anxiety is appropriate, safe, and effective for your golden retriever’s unique needs.

What to Avoid in Managing Your Dog’s Anxiety

When managing anxiety in your dog, it’s crucial to know what mistakes to avoid as they can worsen the situation or harm your dog’s mental well-being.

Here’s a list of things to steer clear of:

Punishing Your Dog – Punishing a dog for anxious behavior can increase fear and anxiety. It’s important to respond with patience and understanding.

Flooding – Avoid overwhelming your dog by excessively exposing them to the anxiety-inducing stimulus without a gradual introduction.

Ignoring Early Signs of Anxiety – Early signs should not be overlooked. Addressing anxiety as soon as it’s noticed can prevent it from escalating.

Forcing Your Dog into Frightening Experiences – Never force your golden retriever to face their fears abruptly. This can increase anxiety and damage trust.

Neglecting Proper Socialization – Failing to socialize your dog properly can lead to increased anxiety in various situations.

Ignoring Potential Medical Issues – Some anxiety-like symptoms can be due to underlying medical conditions. It’s important to rule these out with a vet.

Using Harsh or Intimidating Training Methods – Aggressive training techniques can increase anxiety and fear in dogs.

Overwhelming the Dog with Too Much Stimulation – Too much stimulation can be stressful. It’s important to find a balance that suits your golden retriever’s temperament.

Skipping Regular Vet Check-ups – Regular check-ups are crucial for overall health and can help identify issues contributing to anxiety.

Avoiding Professional Help When Needed – If anxiety is severe or persistent, professional guidance can be invaluable and should not be avoided.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my golden retriever have so much anxiety?

Your golden retriever may have anxiety due to various reasons such as genetics, lack of socialization, past negative experiences, separation from their owner or family, changes in the environment, and lack of physical or mental stimulation. It’s important to identify and address these underlying causes to effectively manage and reduce their anxiety.

2. What does anxiety look like in dogs?

Anxiety in dogs can manifest as excessive barking, panting, drooling, restlessness, pacing, trembling, destructive behavior, and changes in appetite. Dogs may also exhibit increased clinginess or attempts to escape, particularly during stressful situations.

To fix social anxiety in dogs, gradually expose them to social situations in a controlled, comfortable manner. Positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency are key. Professional training or behaviorist guidance can also be beneficial in managing and improving their social anxiety.

4. Why is my dog anxious all of a sudden?

Sudden anxiety in dogs can be due to various reasons such as changes in their environment, health issues, past trauma, aging (which can lead to cognitive dysfunction), or even changes in the family dynamics. It’s important to observe any other accompanying symptoms and consult a vet to determine the underlying cause.

5. Can dog anxiety be treated?

Yes, dog anxiety can be treated. Effective treatments include behavioral training, desensitization and counter-conditioning, environmental management, regular exercise, and in some cases, medication. Consulting with a vet or a professional dog trainer/behaviorist is recommended for personalized treatment plans.

6. How long do high-anxiety dogs live?

According to a study, high-anxiety dogs tend to have shorter lifespans and higher disease frequency compared to low-anxiety dogs. Fear and anxiety negatively impact their health, as “well-behaved” dogs, perceived by their owners, generally live longer.

Conclusion

Anxiety in golden retrievers can stem from various causes like separation, environmental changes, or past trauma. Symptoms include excessive barking, restlessness, and destructive behavior.

Effective management involves regular exercise, creating a calm environment, and proper socialization. In more severe cases, professional guidance from a vet or behaviorist may be necessary. Understanding and addressing the specific needs of your golden retriever is crucial for reducing anxiety and ensuring their well-being.

Check out these behavior-related articles next to understand your golden retriever better.

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Why Do Golden Retrievers Look Sad? (10 Must-Know Signs)

Why Do Golden Retrievers Eat Poop?

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