It can be tough to tell if your dog is feeling stressed or anxious. They can’t just tell us what’s wrong! As an owner, it’s easy to miss the early clues that your dog is feeling uncomfortable. But by recognising subtle signs in your dog's body language, you can step in early to help your dog cope.

We’ve pulled together the ten most common indicators that your dog is feeling anxious, what might be causing their worry, and simple, effective ways you can help them feel safe and relaxed.

Table of Contents

Sign of Anxiety	What it Means & Why it Matters	Quick Fix/Action
Sign 1: Excessive Lip Licking and Yawning	The subtle signs of low-level stress.	Check the environment. Is something new or different around?
Sign 2: The "Whale Eye"	When the whites of their eyes show.	Give them space. Avoid direct eye contact or crowding.
Sign 3: Pinned-Back Ears and Low/Tucked Tail	Classic body language for fear and worry.	Move away from the perceived threat.
Sign 4: Pacing, Restlessness, and Inability to Settle	Physical agitation and being unable to relax.	Provide a safe 'den' or a calming chew toy.
Sign 5: Shivering or Trembling	A physical reaction to intense fear or stress.	Comfort them calmly. Don't make a fuss, which can reinforce the fear.
Sign 6: Hiding or Escape Behaviour	Actively avoiding a situation or trying to bolt.	Always allow a clear exit and never force them into a scary situation.
Sign 7: Destructive Chewing or Digging	A sign of intense stress or separation anxiety.	Focus on training and mental stimulation before leaving them alone.
Sign 8: Changes in Appetite	Refusing to eat in a particular situation.	Remove them from the stressful environment to see if they'll eat.
Sign 9: Excessive Grooming	Licking their paws or flanks repetitively.	Consult your vet or groomer to rule out medical issues first.
Sign 10: Increased Frequency of Accidents/Urination	A physical reaction to being very stressed or scared.	Clean up calmly and focus on addressing the root cause of the anxiety.

Why does my dog lick their lips when not eating?

Lip licking isn't just about food. A quick, subtle flick of the tongue over the lips—especially when no food is present—is a common displacement behaviour. It's a way your dog tries to distract themselves or release a small amount of nervous energy when they're feeling a bit uneasy about a situation.

Does yawning mean my dog is stressed?

Yes, if your dog is yawning and they're not actually tired, it can be a sign of stress. They might yawn when being told off, in a new environment, or when a stranger tries to interact with them. It's their way of saying, "I'm a little stressed right now."

Is lip licking a sign of dog anxiety?

Absolutely. If you see frequent lip licking, tongue flicks, or repetitive yawning, use this as your cue to check the environment.

Action: Look around. What has changed? Is there a new person, an unfamiliar object, or a noise that has started? Address the potential trigger quickly to prevent the anxiety from escalating.

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2. The "Whale Eye" (Showing the Whites of the Eyes)

When your dog's eyes look wide and you can see the white crescent part around the iris, this is known as "whale eye." This happens when they turn their head away from something that worries them, but still try to keep an eye on it.

What does it mean when a dog shows the whites of its eyes?

It's a clear signal that your dog is concerned or fearful about something in their immediate environment and is likely feeling trapped or uneasy. In a relaxed dog, you typically won't see the whites of their eyes.

Is "whale eye" in dogs a sign of aggression?

Not on its own, no. It's a sign of anxiety and stress that could precede a more defensive reaction, but it mainly means they are very uncomfortable. If you ignore this sign, your dog might feel they have no choice but to escalate their warnings.

What do an anxious dog's eyes look like?

They will be wide, tense, and you will see the whites, particularly on the outer edges. They might also squint their eyes or blink rapidly as another calming signal.

Action: Create distance. Calmly remove them from the situation or remove the thing causing them stress. Avoid staring directly into their eyes as this can increase their anxiety.

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3. Pinned-Back Ears and Low/Tucked Tail (Body Language)

This is some of the most recognisable body language for a dog that is feeling insecure or afraid. Your dog is trying to make itself look smaller and less noticeable.

What does an anxious dog's body language look like?

Look for a combination of these signs:

• A low or tucked tail, sometimes held tight against their belly.
• Ears flattened and pinned back against their head.
• A lowered body posture, maybe a slight crouch.
• Body tension or stiffness, where they look less fluid in their movements.

Why does my dog flatten its ears?

Flattening the ears is an attempt to minimise their profile and show submission or fear. They are trying to look non-threatening to whatever is making them anxious.

Why does my dog's tail tuck between its legs?

Tucking the tail is a clear sign they are feeling nervous, scared, or extremely stressed. The tail covers the scent glands, which are often used in confident greetings, and tucking it away is an action of feeling vulnerable.

Action: Help them escape. The moment you see these, calmly lead your dog out of the area or situation that is causing the fear.

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4. Pacing, Restlessness, and Inability to Settle (Movement & Agitation)

Anxiety often manifests as physical agitation. If your dog is constantly moving and can't relax, it's a sure sign that something is troubling them.

Why is my dog pacing back and forth?

Pacing is a common symptom of high-level anxiety or stress. Your dog is likely in a state of hyper-arousal, where their body is flooded with stress hormones and they physically can't switch off or rest. This is often seen in dogs with Generalised Anxiety or right before a known stressful event.

How can I get my anxious dog to settle down?

In that moment, you can try to redirect their energy.

• Provide a safe den or crate: A familiar, comfortable space is invaluable.
• Offer a slow-feeder toy or chew: Engaging their mouth and mind with a tasty activity can help switch their focus from panic to pleasure.
• Avoid over-comforting: While it’s natural to hug them, making a big fuss can sometimes inadvertently reward the anxious behaviour. Stay calm and speak in a low, gentle voice.

Is panting always a sign of heat in dogs?

No. Rapid, shallow panting when it’s not hot or after very little exercise is a strong indicator of stress or fear. A dog panting from anxiety often has a tense body and tight facial muscles, unlike the loose, relaxed posture of a dog that’s just hot.

Action: Try a calming product. If restlessness is frequent, consider using a calming spray in their main resting area to help lower their overall stress level.

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5. Shivering or Trembling (Physical Reaction)

Just like humans, dogs can physically tremble when they are scared, even when the temperature is perfectly fine.

Why is my dog shaking even though they aren't cold?

Shivering or trembling in the absence of cold is a physical manifestation of high anxiety. It means their nervous system is in overdrive, and they are struggling to cope. This is a common sign of Noise Anxiety during thunderstorms or fireworks. If you have a dog that is particularly stressed on Bonfire Night, make sure to read our blog ‘10 Step Guide to a Stress-Free Bonfire Night for Dogs’.

Is shaking in dogs a sign of fear or anxiety?

Yes, it's one of the clearest signs. If they are shaking, they are beyond the subtle calming signals and are actively displaying distress. Other physical signs may include drooling or sudden loose stool.

When should I worry about my dog shaking?

If the shaking is sudden, intense, accompanied by other alarming signs (like vomiting or collapse), or if it doesn't stop once the trigger is removed, you should contact your vet immediately to rule out a medical issue.

Action: Be a calm presence. Sit quietly with your dog, avoiding excessive petting. Play some soothing music or white noise to help muffle the sound if the trigger is noise-related.

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6. Hiding or Escape Behaviour (Bolting) (Avoidance)

When a dog actively tries to get out of a situation, it's a desperate cry for help.

Why is my dog hiding under the table?

Hiding under furniture, in a cupboard, or in another small space is your dog’s attempt to find a safe haven. They are seeking a small, dark, enclosed space to feel protected from the scary things in the outside world.

Why does my dog run away when they hear a loud noise?

This is an escape response. Loud, unpredictable noises like fireworks or construction work can trigger pure panic, causing dogs to bolt and run without thinking. This is incredibly dangerous, which is why dogs should never be left outside unattended on nights like Bonfire Night or New Year’s Eve.

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7. Destructive Chewing or Digging (Displacement)

When anxiety levels are extremely high, especially when left alone, a dog may engage in destructive behaviour.

Why is my dog chewing furniture when I leave?

This is the classic sign of Separation Anxiety. Destructive chewing or house destruction is often an attempt to escape or a way to cope with extreme panic at being left alone. They are not doing it to be naughty—it is a symptom of distress.

Is destructive behaviour a sign of stress in dogs?

Yes, it’s a form of displacement behaviour—they are taking their overwhelming stress out on an object. This can also include frantic digging at carpets or scratching at doors.

How do I stop my dog from digging inside?

This behaviour requires focused training to address the underlying anxiety.

• Make being left alone positive by giving them an extra-special, high-value chew only when you leave.
• Work on desensitisation by practising short departures and returns, gradually increasing the time.

Action: Check out our guide on Dealing with Separation Anxiety to build a positive routine for your dog.

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8. Changes in Appetite (Refusing to Eat)

A dog that is too anxious to eat is highly stressed and focused on survival, not on food.

Can stress cause a dog to stop eating?

Absolutely. In a high-stress situation, your dog’s ‘fight or flight’ response kicks in. Digesting food is not a priority, so they may completely lose their appetite.

Why won't my dog eat in new environments?

A new environment, like a hotel, a friend’s house, or a busy dog show, often comes with a lot of unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds. This overload can be anxiety-inducing, making them too uncomfortable to eat.

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9. Excessive Grooming (Licking Paws/Flanks)

Licking is a natural calming signal, but when it becomes constant and repetitive, it is a problem.

Why is my dog constantly licking their paws?

While a vet must first rule out allergies or injury, excessive paw or flank licking is a common sign of anxiety-related compulsive disorder. It’s a way your dog tries to self-soothe, but it can lead to hair loss, skin infections, or 'lick granulomas' (raw, red patches).

What is displacement behaviour in dogs?

Displacement is a term for a normal dog behaviour (like licking, scratching, or yawning) that is performed out of context in response to stress or internal conflict. It’s an outlet for their anxious energy.

Action: Talk to your vet and groomer. They can help assess the skin and coat health, and your vet may recommend supplements or a behaviourist to help break the habit.

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10. Increased Frequency of Accidents/Urination (Elimination)

This is the most overt and inconvenient sign of extreme anxiety, fear, or a complete lack of control.

Can anxiety cause my dog to pee inside?

Yes. Stress, fear, and excitement can all cause a dog to submissively urinate or lose control of their bladder. This is not defiance; it’s a physical sign they are overwhelmed. This is often seen in greetings with strangers or during extremely loud noises.

Is peeing inside a sign of separation anxiety?

It can be. Dogs with separation anxiety may urinate or defecate inside shortly after you leave the house because they are panicking. It's not a sign of spite—it’s a panic attack.

How to stop stress-related accidents in dogs.

• Rule out medical issues first! A vet should always check for UTIs or other conditions.
• Never punish them. If they have an accident, clean it up calmly and without fuss. Punishing them will only increase their fear and anxiety.
• Focus on the root cause (the fear or separation). Once you address the anxiety, the accidents should stop.

Action: Be patient. This will take time, but a consistent, calm approach to addressing the fear is the only way to solve this long-term.

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Why is My Dog Anxious All of a Sudden?

Dog anxiety can appear for many reasons, from obvious changes to seemingly minor triggers. Understanding the cause is the first step toward treatment.

Separation Anxiety: This is the anxiety your dog feels when they are left alone. Because they associate all good things (food, play, cuddles) with you being around, being left alone can trigger an intense panic. Training them to feel secure in their own company is the only way to fix this.

Fear of Loud Noises (Noise Anxiety): Unexplained loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms are scary! A negative experience can trigger extreme anxiety and cause them to fret even when they just sense a storm coming.

Environmental Changes: Dogs thrive on routine. Changes like moving house, a new person/pet joining the family, or changes to your daily schedule (longer work hours) can all cause stress. Breaking down the process of change into small, positive steps is essential for adaptation.

Situational Anxiety (Grooming/Handling Fear): This type of anxiety is triggered by a specific event or environment, such as loud noises, strange equipment, and unfamiliar restraint or handling during a professional grooming session. Dogs may become restless, distressed, or pull away due to a fear of the unknown or negative past experiences.