The Anxious Dog Brain & What to Do About It
Your Dog’s Mindset Determines Everything
When it comes to raising a balanced, happy dog, mindset matters more than anything else. The truth is, your dog’s mindset determines everything.
An excited mindset might look cute at first—tail wagging, spinning in circles, bouncing off the walls—but underneath, it’s often the ultimate breeding ground for anxiety. And here’s the kicker: your dog’s anxiety thrives on chaos and a lack of clear boundaries.
On the other hand, a calm mindset allows your dog to be at their very best. Calm dogs thrive with structure, routine, and direction. They’re less reactive, less anxious, and better able to navigate daily life in a way that feels balanced.
So, why is calm so important? Because the reality is this: most dogs live in an excited state all day long.
The Problem With Constant Excitement
Many well-meaning owners worry that their dog is bored, so they fill their pup’s day with toys, games, and constant activities. But here’s the truth—boredom with direction is actually a good thing.
Dogs don’t need to be entertained 24/7. In fact, too much “go, go, go” just ramps up their nervous system and leaves them in a constant state of arousal. Instead of creating peace, it creates instability.
Think of it this way: excitement is like a hamster on a wheel. Your dog is running, running, running, but getting nowhere—mentally stuck in an endless cycle of energy without relief.
Visiting the Excited Mindset (Not Living There)
This doesn’t mean excitement is bad—it just means it should be a temporary state, not the default one.
Things like playing fetch, zoomies in the backyard, or a round of tug should feel special. These activities are great ways to burn energy and bond with your dog, but they shouldn’t define the entire day.
For an anxious dog, too much excitement is like pouring gasoline on a fire. It leads to constant whining, barking in the crate, pacing around the house, and a never-ending case of FOMO. Your dog becomes unsettled, demanding, and unable to just chill.
So What Can You Do?
The answer is simple: prioritize calm over chaos.
That means more time in structured activities like the place command, leash walking in heel, and kennel time. At first, your dog might resist this new way of living because—let’s be honest—chaos is fun. It’s like giving kids the option of going to Chuck E. Cheese every single day. Of course, they’d love it… but would it really be what’s best for them?
Take whining, for example. To us, it’s frustrating and noisy. To your dog, it’s just an emotional reaction they don’t know how to control. Their brain doesn’t rationalize the situation like we do:
“Okay, mom just left. She’ll be back soon. No need to panic. Barking and whining won’t help. I’ll just relax.”
That’s not how dogs think. They won’t just figure it out on their own. You have to show them what to do instead.
Whenever you’re unsure, ask yourself: is this strengthening my dog’s calm mindset, or their excited one? Remember, mindset is like a muscle. Which one do you want to build?
How to Help Your Nervous or Anxious Dog
If your dog struggles with anxiety, you’re not alone. Here are some practical ways to guide them toward calm:
1. Give Clear Direction
Nervous dogs often want to flee, hide, or spin in circles. Instead of letting them spiral, provide structure with a leash. Guide them to walk with you, or use the place command to help them settle.
2. Crate Train
A pacing, anxious dog isn’t soothing themselves—it’s the opposite. Crating gives them a safe, quiet space where they can “meditate” and reset while you’re away.
3. Say No
Protect your dog’s space. Advocate for them by setting boundaries, even if that means saying “no” to interactions, people, or activities that aren’t helping. When your dog sees that you’re in control, their trust in you grows.
4. Challenge Them
Your dog is not made of glass. If they’re afraid of noises or strangers, gradually expose them to those experiences. Avoidance only reinforces fear. Calmly guide them through challenges so they learn resilience.
5. Forgive Yourself
If you’re reading this and thinking, “I wish I had started sooner,” you’re not alone. As a fearful dog owner myself, I’ve been there. But here’s the good news: today is a new day. Your dog forgives you instantly. Now it’s time to forgive yourself and move forward with clarity.
Your dog’s mindset shapes their entire world. Living in excitement breeds anxiety, while calm creates stability and trust. Excitement has its place, but it should be a visitor—not the main tenant.
By prioritizing calm routines, giving clear direction, and challenging your dog in healthy ways, you’re not just training behaviors—you’re shaping their mindset. And when you focus on building that calm “muscle,” you’ll see your dog transform into a more balanced, confident, and peaceful companion.
