Fear is a normal response to stressful situations, but for some dogs the fear becomes a pathologic process that interrupts normal daily life. Scientists have identified certain brain chemicals that can be quantified in a laboratory to shed light on the physiology of fear. Anxiety disorders in humans are certainly diagnosed and managed medically, but it is harder to assess for dogs because they cannot be interviewed about their fears and feelings.
Cortisol is a hormone associated with feelings of stress for both humans and dogs. It has been measured in the blood and saliva and used to help understand the perception of stress. 1 We have identified situations that will elevate cortisol levels for dogs and have begun to recognize strategies to improve them. The Fear Free™ practice is an initiative by veterinarians to reduce the anxiety associated with a trip the veterinary hospital.
On the other side of the spectrum, the hormone oxytocin has been linked to feelings of calm and social bonding and can be measured as well. We know that oxytocin levels rise in dogs when they see their human and elevate further if there is touch and interaction. 2 There are studies underway to leverage the use of things that reduce cortisol and increase oxytocin to help affected dogs cope with the stressors they experience in their daily life.
The most commonly reported form is separation anxiety which develops when a dog is detached from his family pack, but we all have to go about our daily life and much of it will be away from our dogs. This type of anxiety must be recognized and addressed for the well-being of all concerned.
Signs of anxiety in dogs can include: vocalization, elimination, salivation and excessive activity.3 Sometimes dogs will damage items or injure themselves. This heartbreaking level of stress and anxiety must be addressed for the dog’s sake and yours.
It is very important for dog owners to realize that Anxiety Disorder is a real diagnosis. It will require medical intervention through environmental changes, behavior modification protocols and perhaps medication. No one treatment plan works for every affected dog and patience will be required to find what works for your dog.
Remember, you are not alone. There are many dogs with anxiety disorder that live normal and productive lives. Do not be afraid that your vet will not listen to you (and if he/she is not willing to help-find one who will).
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- J Vet Sci. 2015 Dec 8. [Epub ahead of print]Evaluation of effects of olfactory and auditory stimulation on separation anxiety by salivary cortisol measurement in dogs. Shin YJ, Shin NS.
- Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc. 2015 Nov 9. doi: 10.1111/brv.12235. [Epub ahead of print]The role of oxytocin in relationships between dogs and humans and potential applications for the treatment of separation anxiety in dogs. Thielke LE, Udell MA
- Anim. Behav. Sci. 2000. 70: 297-308.Takeuchi Y, Ogata, N, Houpt, KA, et al. Differences in background and outcome of three behavior problems of dogs.
