Social Anxiety in Dogs
Help your dog feel comfortable around unfamiliar people and other dogs
Not Veterinary Advice
Understanding Social Anxiety
Social anxiety in dogs refers to fear or discomfort around unfamiliar people, other dogs, or social situations. This isn't "bad behaviour"—it's a genuine fear response that requires patience and systematic desensitisation.
Signs of Social Anxiety
Dogs experiencing social anxiety may display:
- Hiding, cowering, or trying to escape
- Excessive barking or lunging (fear-based reactivity)
- Freezing or refusing to move
- Avoidance behaviours (looking away, turning away)
- Stress signals: panting, yawning, lip licking, whale eye
- Aggression as a last resort when escape isn't possible
Common Triggers
Social anxiety can be triggered by:
- Unfamiliar people (especially men, children, or people in hats/uniforms)
- Other dogs (especially on-leash or in confined spaces)
- Crowded environments
- Direct approach or prolonged eye contact
- Reaching hands or sudden movements
- Lack of early socialisation
Gradual Socialisation Programme
Follow these steps for the best results
Identify the Threshold
Find the distance at which your dog notices the trigger but remains calm. This is your starting point. Never force interaction or allow your dog to be overwhelmed.
Counter-Conditioning
Change your dog's emotional response to the trigger through positive associations:
- Start at a distance where your dog is calm
- When the trigger appears, feed high-value treats continuously
- When the trigger disappears, treats stop
- Repeat many times until your dog looks to you happily when seeing the trigger
- Very gradually decrease distance over weeks
Manage the Environment
Set your dog up for success:
- Avoid overwhelming situations (busy parks, crowded streets)
- Walk during quieter times
- Use distance as your friend—cross the street if needed
- Tell people your dog is in training and ask them not to approach
- Consider a vest saying "In Training" or "Needs Space"
Build Confidence Through Choice
Allow your dog to approach at their own pace:
- Never force interaction
- Let your dog choose to approach or retreat
- Reward brave, calm behaviour
- Keep interactions brief and positive
- Always provide an escape route
What NOT to Do
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Don't force your dog to interact ("just say hello")
- Don't use punishment or corrections for fearful behaviour
- Don't flood your dog with triggers
- Don't allow strangers to pet your dog without permission
- Don't push your dog beyond their comfort zone
Professional Support
For severe social anxiety, especially if involving aggression, work with a certified behaviourist who uses force-free methods. This ensures safety and proper progression.
Action Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure you're covering all the important steps