
Dogs, like people, can experience anxiety, and some breeds are more prone to it than others. Anxiety in dogs can show up as restlessness, excessive barking, destructive behavior, or even health issues if left unaddressed. Some breeds are especially sensitive and may need extra support and training to feel secure and calm. Here are the top 15 dog breeds most likely to experience anxiety, along with some tips to help them feel more comfortable.
Chihuahua

Chihuahuas may be small, but they develop strong attachments to their owners and can be very sensitive to their surroundings. Loud noises, unfamiliar people, and changes in routine can easily make them feel anxious. They’re prone to separation anxiety, so when left alone, they may bark or shake. Ensuring they have a cozy, quiet space to retreat to and gradually building up their tolerance to being alone can help them feel safer.
Border Collie

Border Collies are incredibly intelligent and energetic, with a strong work ethic. They need lots of physical and mental stimulation, or they can become anxious and destructive. Without enough activity, they may start pacing, chewing, or barking excessively. Engaging them with tasks like agility courses, puzzle toys, or even herding activities can help calm their anxious minds and give them a sense of purpose.
German Shepherd

German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, which can sometimes turn into anxiety if they feel they aren’t fulfilling their “job” of guarding. They’re prone to separation anxiety and may become overly protective, leading to restlessness or barking. Structured training, regular exercise, and mental challenges, like scent work or obedience training, can help manage their anxiety and channel their energy productively.
Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are affectionate, people-oriented dogs who love close contact with their family. When left alone for long periods, they can become stressed, leading to behaviors like whining, chewing, or excessive licking. They respond well to positive reinforcement and thrive on routines. Leaving a familiar blanket or a worn T-shirt with your scent can help comfort them when you’re away.
Labrador Retriever

Labradors are social and friendly dogs who hate being left out of family activities. Their strong attachment to people can make them prone to separation anxiety, and they may chew, dig, or bark when lonely. Labs need regular exercise, and leaving toys or treats that engage their senses can help ease their stress and keep them occupied when you’re away.
Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are highly energetic and need consistent activity to keep their minds and bodies engaged. They’re prone to anxiety if they don’t have enough outlets for their energy, which can lead to restlessness, destructive behavior, or even aggression. Setting up agility courses, playing interactive games, and giving them structured tasks, like fetching items, can help them stay calm and focused.
Bichon Frise

Bichons are cheerful, social dogs that thrive on companionship. They’re known for becoming stressed when left alone, often showing signs like barking, whining, or scratching at doors. Bichons do well with a predictable schedule and benefit from having toys that keep them engaged. Setting up a cozy space near family activity areas can also help them feel secure, even when you’re not directly interacting with them.
Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russells are active, intelligent terriers that can become anxious if they don’t have enough stimulation or structure. Their high energy levels mean they need plenty of exercise, or they may resort to digging, barking, or other anxious behaviors. Jack Russells benefit from agility training, fetch, and games that challenge them mentally. Regular, structured activities help keep their minds busy and reduce their stress.
Greyhound

Greyhounds may seem calm, but they can be surprisingly sensitive. Many Greyhounds, especially those adopted from racing backgrounds, have a hard time adjusting to new environments and routines, which can lead to separation anxiety or nervousness around unfamiliar sounds. Providing them with a quiet space, a predictable routine, and gradual exposure to new experiences helps them feel secure.
Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are loving dogs that crave attention and can develop strong attachments to their owners. They’re prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to excessive barking or pacing when left alone. Shih Tzus responds well to routines and likes calm, predictable environments. Leaving interactive toys and items with your scent can help ease their anxiety, as well as establishing a gradual separation routine to build their confidence.
Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are gentle, sensitive dogs that thrive on companionship. They can be prone to anxiety in busy or noisy environments and are known for experiencing separation anxiety. A quiet, cozy home environment helps them feel safe. Gentle training, slow introductions to new experiences, and cuddles can all help reduce their stress. These dogs also do well with routines and respond positively to calm, reassuring interactions.
Vizsla

Known as “velcro dogs,” Vizslas love being close to their owners and often follow them from room to room. This attachment makes them highly prone to separation anxiety, which can manifest as destructive behaviors or excessive barking when left alone. Vizslas benefit from regular physical activity, consistent routines, and lots of bonding time with their family, which helps them feel secure and keeps their anxiety levels low.
Maltese

The Maltese is a gentle and affectionate breed, but they can easily become anxious without close contact with their family. Loud noises, new people, or changes in their environment can heighten their stress. They thrive in calm, predictable settings and do best when they know what to expect. Regular bonding time, gentle handling, and quiet spaces help Maltese dogs feel secure and reduce their anxiety.
Poodle (Especially Toy and Miniature)

Poodles are smart and sensitive, with smaller varieties like Toy and Miniature Poodles being more prone to anxiety. They may develop separation anxiety and can become stressed by loud noises or sudden changes. Poodles benefit from routines, mental stimulation, and companionship. Regular play, training exercises, and interactive toys help keep their minds busy and reduce their anxiety when they’re alone.
Havanese

Havanese dogs are social, affectionate, and thrive on human companionship. They’re known to follow their owners closely and can feel distressed if left alone for long periods. Havanese are prone to separation anxiety and benefit from routines, as well as being close to their family. Engaging toys, interactive play sessions, and calming techniques can help them manage their anxiety and feel more secure.