When I’m working with clients around Melbourne and helping owners with dog training, I often come across dogs showing signs of anxiety related behaviour — and it’s not always obvious at first glance. Anxiety related behaviour in dogs is a serious matter, and as a dog training professional I believe understanding what it looks like is the first step to helping your canine feel safe, calm, and confident.
An anxious dog doesn’t always show distress through loud or destructive behaviour. Instead, you might notice subtle cues — lip-licking when not eating or drinking, yawning when not tired, avoiding eye contact, or shifting weight from one paw to another. Other times, the signs are more obvious: pacing, panting, trembling, hiding, or even destructive chewing and house-soiling.
If you live in Melbourne and are searching for dog training near me, spotting these signs early is crucial. I’ve seen how anxiety related behaviours can interfere with learning during dog training sessions. A worried dog finds it difficult to focus, making it harder to teach new skills or reinforce good habits.
Here are some of the most common signs I encounter during dog training across Melbourne:
- Physical and body-language cues:
A tucked tail, lowered posture, pinned-back ears, or the whites of the eyes showing (known as “whale eye”). Sometimes the dog will tremble, pant heavily, or shake even when it’s not hot. - Behavioural indicators:
An anxious dog may hide behind furniture, refuse food, or destroy items when left alone. In my dog training experience, I’ve also seen dogs become clingy, constantly following their owner or barking excessively. - Training and everyday impact:
Anxiety can make dog training more challenging. Dogs may freeze, become easily startled, or seem to “ignore” commands. Patience, positive reinforcement, and consistent routines help rebuild confidence.
What causes anxiety in dogs?
In my work as a dog trainer around Melbourne, I often see it triggered by loud noises, sudden changes to routine, separation from owners, or past trauma. The good news is that dog training can play a huge role in building resilience. A thoughtful, reward-based approach helps your dog learn that the world is a safe place.
If you’re noticing these signs, start with gentle reassurance and predictable routines. Keep dog training sessions short, calm, and positive. Avoid punishment — anxious dogs don’t need discipline; they need understanding. And if you’re unsure where to start, it’s worth seeking professional help to tailor your dog training plan.
Additional support
You can also find great local resources and supplies to support your dog’s wellbeing. For example, All Day Dogs – Dandenong South Dog Training & Doggy Daycare offers safe social environments for dogs, and Animal World of Boronia provides excellent pet care supplies in Ferntree Gully and Boronia that can help make your home more comfortable for an anxious pet.
If you’d like to learn more about implementing confidence-building routines for your dog, in our obedience class sessions we run help to build confidence, strengthen your bond, and set the foundation for lifelong good behaviour.
Anxiety related behaviours are more common than many people realise, but with understanding, patience, and the right dog training approach, your dog can thrive again — relaxed, resilient, and ready to learn.
Written by Emilia Borkowski
03.11.25
Images credited to:
Vidak, Caio Delarolle and Charlie N