Anxiety in dogs is a common behavioral problem that many dog owners face. Some breeds are more prone to anxiety due to their temperament, background or the job they were originally bred for. These anxious behaviors can manifest in different ways, such as excessive barking, destructive tendencies or compulsive behaviors. In particular, separation anxiety is a significant problem for many dogs, causing them to panic when left alone. For others, loud noises or new environments can trigger anxiety. In this article, we explore 13 dog breeds that are particularly prone to anxiety, starting with the least anxious and moving on to the most anxiety-prone breeds.
13. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog or “Sheltie” is a small, intelligent herding breed known for its sensitivity and loyalty. However, this sensitivity can also cause anxiety, particularly separation anxiety. Shelties form strong bonds with their families and can become distressed if left alone for long periods of time. Additionally, their high intelligence and alert nature makes them highly aware of their surroundings, and they may react with nervousness to unfamiliar sounds or changes in their environment. Regular mental and physical stimulation, as well as consistent routines, can help manage the anxiety often seen in this breed.
12. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas may be small, but they have big personalities—and so do their fears. As a breed, Chihuahuas are known for their strong attachment to their owners, which can often lead to separation anxiety when left alone. Their small size also makes them more sensitive to environmental changes, and loud noises or unfamiliar people can trigger anxious behavior. Chihuahuas can also become anxious when they feel threatened by larger animals or if they aren’t properly socialized. Their anxiety often manifests in excessive barking, trembling, or even aggressive outbursts when they feel cornered or frightened.
11. Vizsla
A medium-sized hound from Hungary, the Vizsla is known for its affectionate and energetic nature. Often referred to as the “Velcro dog,” Vizslas thrive in close association with their owners. This need for constant human contact can make them particularly prone to separation anxiety. When left alone, they may engage in destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging to cope with stress. Vizslas are also sensitive dogs, and they can become anxious in chaotic or noisy environments. Proper training and regular exercise are essential to managing anxiety in this breed, as they require both physical and mental stimulation to stay balanced.
10. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a high-energy breed originally developed for hunting and outdoor activities. While they are known for their enthusiasm and friendly demeanor, they can also develop anxiety if their mental and physical needs aren’t met. German Shorthaired Pointers bred to work closely with humans often struggle with being left alone for long periods of time. Separation anxiety is common in this breed, and they may bark, cry, or become destructive when they feel abandoned. Their boundless energy can also lead to nervousness if they aren’t given an outlet, such as daily exercise or interactive play.
9. Greyhound
Despite their calm and reserved demeanor, greyhounds are known to experience anxiety, especially after retiring from racing. Many retired racing greyhounds have not been exposed to life at home, and sudden changes can cause significant stress. They may become anxious around loud noises, unfamiliar objects, or new experiences. Greyhounds are also highly sensitive dogs that bond closely with their owners, so separation anxiety is common. Their anxiety may manifest in flailing, panting, or even refusing to eat. With time, patience, and a structured routine, greyhounds can learn to feel more secure in their new environment.
8. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, fluffy companion dog that is happy to receive attention and affection from its family. These dogs were bred as pets, and they do not do well with being left alone for long periods of time. As a result, Bichons are prone to separation anxiety, often barking or becoming destructive when out of sight of their owners. Their friendly, sociable nature means they seek constant interaction, and they can become anxious when alone. Regular companionship, as well as gradual training to help them cope with alone time, can reduce the Bichon Frise’s anxiety.
7. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a lively, energetic breed that has a high drive for activity and mental stimulation. While they are known for their intelligence and independence, Jack Russells can develop anxiety, especially when their need for exercise and engagement is not met. Boredom can quickly become frustrating, leading to anxious behaviors such as digging, barking, or destructive chewing. Additionally, Jack Russells can experience separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to their owners. This breed thrives in an environment where they can engage in regular, challenging activities that channel their energy in a positive way.
6. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a smaller and more delicate cousin of the Greyhound, another breed prone to anxiety. Their sensitive nature makes them extremely attached to their owners, and they can experience severe separation anxiety when left alone. Italian Greyhounds are also known to be timid in unfamiliar situations, and they may react in fear to loud noises or sudden movements. Their anxiety often manifests in trembling, hiding, or refusing to engage with their environment. Italian Greyhounds require gentle handling and a consistent routine to help them feel safe and manage their anxious tendencies.
5. Border Collie
Border Collies are known for their intelligence and zeal to work, but these qualities can also make them anxious. Bred to herd cattle, Border Collies have a lot of mental and physical energy that requires regular outlets. When under-stimulated or left without a job to do, they can become anxious and engage in compulsive behaviors such as excessive barking or herding family members. Separation anxiety is common in this breed, as they form strong bonds with their owners and can become upset if left alone. Providing Border Collies with plenty of exercise and mental challenges is the key to keeping their anxiety under control.
4. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, but they are also one of the most anxious breeds. Separation anxiety is a significant issue for Cocker Spaniels, as they are very attached to their families and can become extremely upset when left alone. Their anxiety can cause them to engage in destructive behaviors such as chewing or excessive barking, and they may also suffer stress-related health problems, such as gastrointestinal issues. Cocker Spaniels are also sensitive to loud noises and cluttered environments, which can trigger panic. Proper training, socialization, and regular companionship are essential to managing anxiety in this breed.
3. Havanese
The Havanese, a small and cheerful companion dog, is prone to separation anxiety from their owners. These dogs were bred as pets and thrive on close contact with their human families. When left alone, the Havanese can experience significant separation anxiety, which can lead to behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing or even self-harm. They are also sensitive to changes in their environment and can become anxious in unfamiliar situations or around new people. With their strong need for companionship, Havanese dogs require consistent attention and structured routines to manage their anxiety.
2. Maltese
The Maltese, another toy breed with a long history as a companion dog, is known for its loving and affectionate nature. However, their deep attachment to their owners can lead to severe separation anxiety. Maltese dogs may bark, lash out, and engage in destructive behavior when left alone for long periods of time. They can also become anxious in noisy or chaotic environments. As sensitive dogs, the Maltese can easily pick up on their owner’s emotions, which can further increase their anxiety. This breed does best in a calm, stable home where they receive consistent companionship and attention.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Topping the list is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a breed known for its sweet and affectionate nature. Cavaliers are extremely people-oriented and form strong bonds with their families, making them particularly vulnerable to separation anxiety. Cavaliers can become upset when left alone, exhibiting behaviors such as whining, squirming or self-harming through excessive licking or chewing. Their sensitivity to their environment also means that loud noises or sudden changes can trigger anxiety. Regular consistency and proper socialization and training are crucial to managing the anxiety often seen in this breed.
Helping Anxious Dogs
While some breeds are naturally more anxious than others, there are ways to help manage anxiety in dogs. Consistent routines, positive reinforcement training, and plenty of mental and physical stimulation can greatly help reduce anxiety levels. Additionally, understanding the specific triggers for each breed and working to reduce them can improve the quality of life for dogs and their owners. With patience and the right approach, even the most anxious dogs can learn to feel more secure and confident in their environment.