What are Panic Attacks?
Did you know that, just like humans, dogs can experience moments of overwhelming fear? While they don’t experience ‘panic attacks’ exactly the way we do, our furry companions can have sudden, intense reactions to certain triggers that look a lot like them.
Whether it’s a loud noise, a car ride, or being left alone, these episodes can range from mildly distressing to seriously concerning.
But don’t worry — there’s plenty we can do to help keep our pups feeling safe and happy.
What are panic attacks in dogs?
When a dog experiences a panic attack, it’s their way of saying, “Something isn’t right, and I don’t know how to handle it!” These episodes are typically intense and triggered by specific situations or environments. We've also covered panic attacks in dogs here.
Defining panic attacks in dogs
Think of a panic attack in dogs as a sudden, extreme reaction to fear. For example, if a dog hears fireworks and starts trembling, barking, or hiding, they’re responding to a situation that feels overwhelming and unsafe.
- Confinement anxiety: fear of being fenced in or stuck in tight spaces.
- Travel anxiety: stress from car rides, planes, or other forms of transportation.
- Noise anxiety: fear of loud sounds like thunderstorms or fireworks.
- Separation anxiety: fear of being left alone for long periods.
Symptoms of panic attacks in dogs
Spotting the signs of a panic attack can help you act quickly to comfort your dog. While every dog reacts differently, there are some common physical and behavioral symptoms to watch for.
Physical symptoms
- Panting heavily, as if they’ve just finished a race
- Drooling excessively
- Trembling or shaking
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
Behavioral symptoms
- Pacing or spinning in circles
- Whining, barking, or howling to get your attention
- Hiding under furniture or trying to escape
- Aggressive behavior or destructive chewing
- Loss of appetite
When it might be something else
Sometimes symptoms of a panic attack overlap with medical conditions like seizures or heart issues. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to get your pup checked out by a vet.Your pet’s wellness is always top of mind as a pet parent. With a Wag! Wellness Plan, you can get access to a 24/7 vet chat, annual boosters, a yearly wellness check-up and more!
Causes of panic attacks in dogs
So, what triggers a panic attack? Dogs are incredibly sensitive to their environments, and their reactions can be shaped by their past experiences or current surroundings.
Each type of anxiety that triggers a panic attack has its own set of causes:
Confinement anxiety
- Fenced in a yard
- Being inside a dog pen or kennel
- Being shut in a room
- Trapped in an enclosed space on accident
Travel anxiety
- Driving in a car
- Flying on an airplane
- Riding on a train or bus
- Visiting new places
Noise anxiety
- Thunderstorms
- Fireworks
- Ambulance/police/firetrucks
- Other loud or unexpected noises
Separation anxiety
- Being left alone
- Loss of a loved one or playmate
- Major life change
- Suffering a traumatic event
Past trauma
Dogs who’ve experienced abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events may develop heightened sensitivities to stress.
Are some breeds more prone to panic?
Certain breeds, like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds and German Shepherds, tend to be more anxious due to their high energy and sensitivity.
Diagnosis of panic attacks in dogs
If your dog’s behavior has you worried, it’s time to get some answers. A vet can help figure out what’s causing these episodes and rule out other medical issues.
What to expect at the vet
Your vet might ask you about your dog’s recent episodes — what triggered them, how long they lasted, and how your dog behaved before, during, and after. They may also perform a physical exam to check for underlying health issues.
While there’s no test specifically for panic attacks, blood tests or imaging might be used to rule out other conditions.
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Treatment of panic attacks in dogs
When your dog has a panic attack, it’s natural to feel helpless. But there are plenty of ways to help calm your furry friend and even prevent future episodes.
Immediate steps to calm your dog
- Speak softly and stay calm. Your dog will pick up on your soothing energy.
- Remove them from the trigger, like taking them to a quiet room away from loud noises.
- Use a calming tool like a “thundershirt” to provide a comforting sensation.
Want more tips? Check out our article on 6 tips to calming your anxious dog.
Long-term solutions
Behavioral training can help dogs build confidence and resilience over time. Desensitization (gradual exposure to triggers) and counter-conditioning (teaching your dog to associate triggers with positive experiences) can be particularly effective.
Medication options
For dogs with severe or frequent panic attacks, your vet might recommend medication like fluoxetine or clorazepate to help manage their symptoms.
Natural remedies
Calming pheromones, CBD oil, and increased exercise are great ways to support your dog’s mental health.
Worried about the cost of treating your pet's symptoms?
Pet Insurance covers the cost of many common pet health conditions. Prepare for the unexpected by getting a quote from top pet insurance providers.
Recovery from panic attacks – and future prevention
After a panic attack, your dog may need a little extra TLC to get back to feeling like themselves. Recovery is all about reassurance and prevention.
Offer your pup comfort, whether it’s through cuddles, a favorite toy, or simply sitting with them until they feel safe again.
Preventing future episodes
- Identify and minimize triggers whenever possible.
- Gradually expose your dog to mild versions of their triggers to help them build confidence.
When to seek help
If your dog’s panic attacks are becoming more frequent or intense, consulting a veterinary behaviorist or professional trainer can make a big difference.
FAQs about panic attacks in dogs
Can dogs have anxiety attacks?
Yes! Anxiety attacks are similar to panic attacks, though they tend to build up more gradually.
What are the most common dog panic attack symptoms?
Common symptoms include trembling, panting, pacing, whining, and destructive behavior.
How do you stop a dog’s panic attack?
Stay calm, remove the trigger, and provide a safe, comforting space.
Can certain breeds be more prone to panic attacks?
Yes, breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds are often more sensitive to triggers.
Should I consider medication for my dog’s panic attacks?
If your dog’s episodes are severe or frequent, medication could help, but it’s always best to consult your vet.
Panic Attacks Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Chihuahua
one year
24 found this helpful
24 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Very Anxious And Lots More
she just started this morning doing this but I know she is having panic attacks and anxiety I use to raise chiuhauas and I went through this before but I am on SSI disability and don't have the money to get her to vet and I need to find out what over the counter medicine might help her she is pitiful
Oct. 23, 2020
Answered by Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS
24 Recommendations
Hi there, you are through to Dr Linda.
I'm sorry to hear your dog seems anxious.
I appreciate your financial concern but would strongly recommend a vet consultation to rule out an underlying issue for her behaviour such as a source of pain or endocrine disorder.
It is also important to get a professional diagnosis if we are considering medicating.
At home, you could try some natural calming supplements as well as a pheromone plug in.
I would also recommend lots of physical and mental stimulation (food puzzles, long and varied walks, training games etc).
Do keep her environment calm and her routine predictable too.
Oct. 23, 2020
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Australian Shepherd
Two Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Noisy Breathing
Dog having recurring panic attacks. Started after a visiting dog in snapped at her in our house
Sept. 26, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay in my reply, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get any testing or treatment taken care of that might be needed.
Oct. 19, 2020
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Jack Russell cross
Two Years
3 found this helpful
3 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Panting And Shaking
My dog will not stop shaking or panting it’s really starting to worry me
July 10, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
3 Recommendations
Dogs will pant and shake if they are scared, anxious, or painful. Without seeing your dog, unfortunately, I can't say for sure what's going on, but if he continues to do this, it would be best to have him seen by a veterinarian. They will be able to examine him, see what the problem is, and get any treatment if needed. I hope that he is okay!
July 10, 2020
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Pit bull
Mickey
8 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Whining
I have always been around my dog, so when I leave he gets upset in his kennel since he can't see me, but when we go on walks and he hears other dogs barking, he begins to whine and bark, he jumps on me and nips my clothes like he wants something, he has even torn my shirt doing this, it's like he's freaking out and I can't get him to calm down and listen, how do I get him to stop?
Sept. 24, 2018
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English bull terrier
Turkish
1 Year
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Shaking, Tail Tucked, Whinning
I have a 1 ½ year old English Bull Terrier named Turkish. We had one incident a few months back in a store where we were walking around and out of nowhere he started pulling, loudly yelping and whining in a very panic manner. We took him down a different isle and worked on commands, sit, shake, etc. until he calmed down enough to check out. Just today we had a similar incident when I was walking him around the neighborhood. We go on walks in this area every morning. About 5 blocks into the walk Turkish heard another dog barking and seemed confused. We kept walking and two houses down a second dog began barking. None of this is unusual for our walks. However, as soon as the second dog started barking; Turkish started whimpering and shaking. With his tail between his legs he tried to take off. We turned around headed back home stopping occasionally to try to do commands but this time he couldn’t shake his panic. He remained whimpering, tail tucked, shaking and pulling the 5 blocks back home. I got him to do some commands once home but his tail remained tucked and he seemed to be on very high alert while fallowing me around before I had to go to work. I left him with a toy full of treats and fingers crossed. Is this a panic attack or something else?
Sept. 5, 2018
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Airedale Terrier
Turbo
6 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Terrified
Extreme Panic
Howl/Scream
Turbo seems to have an extreme panic attack when being woken up by a sudden noise. The noise isn’t even loud but he will get up and almost be screaming with complete panic. We can usually get him to be quiet in a few seconds but he still remains scared and anxious for the next 30 minutes to an hour with mostly panting and his tail tucked between his legs. The most recent time this happened was when someone in the house went to get a cup of water at night and the noise from picking up the cup caused him to panic. He was so scared that he even peed and pooped a little. Whenever he has these attacks he hold his one front paw up and even sometime limps after. (He had broken this leg and had needed surgery when he was around 1). This has only happen a total of 5 times and first started happening a few months ago. He is also scared of gun shots, fireworks, and thunderstorms but never acts so extreme.
Border Collie
Betsy
3 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Trembles + Flight Mode Kicks In.
My 3 year old border collie bitch has always been somewhat obsessional.When we come in she has to run round the outside house a couple of times before she actually greets us & seemingly compulsive running round the house is always present.She is not overly affectionate & often avoids eye contact but always sits next to my chair in the evenings. The obsessional behaviour is not really a problem but recently when I have taken her for walks on our local forest she has taken to suddenly becoming jittery & stressed & then running away completely ignoring my commands which she normally obeys. more often than not there are no other people or dogs around. Usually she runs the mile or so to home but she has run off & been found by someone on the road & taken to our local vets.She seems to be spooked by the sound of children's voices even from our local primary school about half a mile distant - we have had her from a puppy & there have been no adverse experiences with children & the actuality of children's presence does not bother her - she loves our two small granddaughters - it's the sound of more distant childrens voices voices which seem to trouble her & it is getting worse so much so that I can no longer walk her off the lead for fear she'll run off. She has also become nervous if she sees other people on a walk.She suddenly exhibits troubled or stressed body language, tries to pull away on the lead,trembles & is not interested in treats or anything I do to try to reassure her - she just wants to get away. Any advice or thoughts would be gratefully received.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Asti
3 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Separation Anxiety
She has slept in the bathroom on her bed with our other dog for 3 years and in the last month or so she has been having bad panic attacks that take up to 2 hours to calm her down, as soon as I put her in there she starts panting, shaking and tries to climb out the window. We just don't know what had changed as she use to love going in there.
