Why are our dogs so anxious?

Why Are We Seeing More Anxious Dogs Than Ever Before?

If it feels like more and more dogs are struggling with anxiety these days, you’re not imagining things.
In recent years, veterinarians, trainers, and pet parents alike have noticed a sharp increase in canine anxiety cases — from mild nervousness to full-blown panic behaviors. But why is this happening? While there’s no single cause, research and experience point to several contributing factors.

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1. Lifestyle Changes and Urban Living

Many dogs today live in environments very different from the ones they were bred for.

• Less freedom to roam — Gone are the days when most dogs spent long hours outdoors, exploring and sniffing at their own pace.
• Urban and suburban settings often mean fewer opportunities for natural exercise, problem-solving, and socialization.
  This shift can lead to boredom, frustration, and anxiety.

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2. Reduced Early Socialization

Puppies need to be exposed to a variety of sights, sounds, surfaces, people, and other dogs during their critical socialization period (roughly 3–14 weeks old).

• Puppies who miss this window, whether due to overprotection, lack of access to safe environments, or pandemic restrictions, often grow into adult dogs who are more fearful and reactive.

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3. Human Schedules and Stress

Dogs are incredibly sensitive to their humans’ moods and routines.

• Increased work hours, unpredictable schedules, and remote work “boom-and-bust” availability can all create confusion and stress for our pets.
• If we’re anxious, they often mirror that energy.

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4. Overstimulation in the Modern World

While some dogs lack stimulation, others get too much — and not always the right kind.

• Constant noise, traffic, sirens, delivery people, and even overly chaotic dog parks can keep a dog in a state of heightened alertness.
• Unlike in nature, there’s little opportunity for complete rest and reset.

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5. Genetic Predisposition

Some breeds or individual lines are simply more prone to anxiety due to genetics.

• High-energy working breeds, for example, may become anxious if their strong drives aren’t fulfilled.
• Overbreeding without careful temperament consideration can also pass on nervous traits.

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6. Health and Diet Factors

Just like in humans, poor health can impact mood and stress resilience.

• Pain from undiagnosed joint issues, digestive problems, or chronic illness can manifest as anxiety.
• Inadequate nutrition or highly processed diets can also affect brain chemistry and hormone balance.

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Helping Dogs Cope and Thrive

The good news? With awareness and a proactive approach, we can help our dogs find balance.

• Consistent routines and gentle exposure to new experiences build confidence.
• Mental enrichment and physical exercise appropriate to the dog’s breed and age help release stress.
• Many owners also find that natural, farm-crafted CBD — like our Healing Green Farms CBD for Pets — can help take the edge off, making training and behavior modification more effective. Click here to shop our Pet Collection!

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Bottom line: The world may be changing, but with love, patience, and the right tools, our dogs can feel safe, confident, and joyful — no matter what life brings.

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