Signs of Fear in Dogs and How to Help

Signs of fear in dogs can range from obvious to subtle, depending on the dog and the source of fear. Recognizing these signs can prevent fears from escalating. Here are common signs of fear in dogs and ways to address them. 

Ten Common Dog Fears and Phobias

Signs of Fear in Dogs

Dogs primarily communicate through body language, but they may exhibit specific behaviors or physiological changes when afraid. Look for the following signs to determine if your dog is feeling fear:or to determine when your dog is feeling fear:

• Moving away from the object of fear/avoidance
• Hiding
• Flattened ears
• Lip licking
• Yawning
• Cowering
• Tail tucked between the hind legs
• Tail wagging stiffly
• Raised hair along the spine
• Avoiding eye contact/averting the eyes
• Scratching (when he was not previously itchy)
• Barking
• Whining
• Growling
• Submissive urination
• Biting or snapping
• Pacing
• Destructiveness
• Clinginess to owner
• Grinding teeth
• Drooling
• Panting
• Trembling
• Dilated pupils
• Whale eye (showing the whites of the eyes)
• Loss of control over bowels or bladder

Causes of Fear in Dogs

Various factors contribute to fear in dogs. Some dogs fear multiple situations, while others have specific fears like veterinarians or car rides. Negative experiences with the object of fear can also cause fear. 

Dogs that have experienced abuse or neglect are more prone to fearfulness. Adult dogs might develop new fears if not properly socialized as puppies. Some dogs are naturally fearful, but early socialization can help.

How to Help a Fearful Dog

If your dog frequently exhibits extreme fear and anxiety, consult your veterinarian. They may recommend medications and resources for training and behavior modification or refer you to a veterinary behaviorist, applied animal behaviorist, or skilled dog trainer. 

Owners can often help mildly fearful dogs without professional intervention. Patience and understanding of the dog's reality are essential. Remember, a dog running from a loving owner is genuinely afraid. 

A widely recommended strategy is to give fearful dogs ample space. Allow your dog to move away from the object of fear until signs subside. Distract them with obedience cues and treats. Gradually lessen the distance to the fear source while offering treats, but increase it if fear signs appear.

Avoid punishing a dog that displays aggression or destructive behavior, as this may increase their fear. Fearful dogs may already expect punishment, contributing to their fear.

Professional Help

Dogs with significant fear often need professional assistance. Expert animal behaviorists and trainers offer beyond basic obedience training and are more suited to retrain fearful dogs than loving owners. While improvement is common, total rehabilitation may not be possible. Seek a certified dog trainer or behaviorist with strong recommendations.

Medications

Many dog owners resist using medications to treat fear. However, professionals understand some dogs cannot respond solely to behavioral approaches. Dogs in high anxiety states often cannot learn, so anxiety-reducing medications can be beneficial. 

Medications aren’t a standalone solution but are useful for reducing anxiety and fear to enable behavioral treatments. Medication might not be needed permanently.

Helping your dog overcome fear takes time. Be patient and consistent. Maintain contact with assisting professionals. Follow professional instructions thoroughly, and if a method isn’t working, explore alternative management methods.

How to Prevent Fear in Dogs

The best way to prevent fear in dogs is early socialization. Fear is often challenging when fostering or adopting shelter animals as they may be adults with unknown histories. However, even longtime pets can develop fears. 

While you can't always prevent fear, you can socialize and expose your dog to various situations.

• Puppies should be exposed to as many new sights, sounds, smells, and situations as possible beginning early in life.
• Adult dogs should still be exposed to new things, but it should be done more carefully and gradually.
• Provide positive reinforcement when your puppy or dog is exposed to a new situation and does not show fear. Treats work well for this, but you can also offer a toy, praise, and petting.
• Use space and distance to gauge your dog's reaction to a particular situation. Gradually move closer to new things while providing positive reinforcement, but move away as soon as you notice signs of fear.