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Could my anxiety be causing my dog's anxiety? How can I help him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered | 6 years and 9 months old | 16 lbs

Why is my dog anxious?Could I cause his anxiety problems beacuse I have bad anxiety? I have heard dogs pick up on their owners moods. How can I help him?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 25th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While dogs definitely pick up on their owners behavior and moods, it’s probably not the sole cause of Oscar’s anxiety. Talk to to your vet about when Oscar seems to show anxiety and what that looks like (whining, destruction, aggression, etc.). Based on what kind of anxiety Oscar has and how severe it is, your vet will recommend reconditioning training and supplements or medications to help lower his anxiety threshold. Best wishes to you and Oscar!

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