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Why is my dog afraid of everything? How to help with dog anxiety?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 3 years and 3 months old

Ariel is afraid of most things. A while ago she randomly started acting afraid of the Ceiling fan. She is afraid of face masks, cups, and a lot more. Today I found out she is afraid of a un use bath bomb. She loves balls so I thought she would think it’s a ball, but has soon has I grabbed it, she started freaking out, I called her, she wanted to come to me, but didn’t want to get close to the bath bomb. Why is she so afraid of everything? How can I help her?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 3rd, 2019

Poor Ariel! Some dogs have anxiety disorders that can cause them to be afraid of normal, everyday things. There are things that can be done to help dogs like this (usually a combination of medication and careful training or behavior modification to help her learn that the world isn't so scary), but I'm afraid there are no "quick fixes" that I can advise you about in a forum like this. Because of this, I would recommend getting in touch with a veterinary behaviorist who can evaluate Ariel in person and help you put together a detailed plan to help her with her anxiety. You can search for one in your area here: www.dacvb.org

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