Panic Attacks in Dogs

A 'panic attack' in dogs is similar to a panic attack in humans in that their heart rate and breathing usually increase, shaking may occur, and while they bite on their skin and fur, people will sometimes bite their nails. However, dogs do not have the ability to express their fears like humans do so they tend to show it in other ways like hiding, barking, or growling. Most of the time, the panic attack is not long and subsides with time. For some, calmly comforting them can help them settle down.

While it may not seem like a big deal to you, if your dog has recurrent panic attacks, they should be treated because they can lead to a weakened immune system and other health problems. They significantly impact your dog's quality of life. In addition, the panic attack may be caused by an underlying medical condition, so it is best to take your dog to a veterinary care provider if it happens more than once or if you cannot calm him down.

A panic attack can be a serious problem if your dog displays aggression or self-mutilation such as biting or chewing on himself. Your dog may have a type of anxiety that causes such extreme distress that he has a sudden outburst. It could be triggered by noise, confinement, or any kind of change that may seem minor to you, but not to your dog. There are several kinds of anxiety in dogs, but not all cause panic attacks. They are not always serious either, as sometimes your dog may only choose to hide while other times he may attack someone.

A panic attack can come out of the blue with no warning or it may occur every time a certain thing triggers one. You may not even realize your dog is having a panic attack because the signs are similar to other behavioral problems. Some of the most common signs of a panic attack include:

• Rapid breathing
• Fast heart rate
• Drooling
• Dilated pupils
• Pacing
• Loss of appetite
• Ears back and tail tucked under
• Hiding
• Shaking or trembling
• Excessive licking or chewing on skin and fur
• Whining or howling
• Barking more than usual
• Extreme aggression such as growling or biting
• Overly attentive (climbing on you, licking you)
• Behavioral problems such as digging or scratching
• Trying to escape or run away (scratched up door or damaged fence if owner is not home)
• Urinating or defecating indoors

Types

There are four main types of anxiety that can cause panic attacks in dogs.

• Confinement anxiety causes a dog to get anxious when he is confined indoors or outdoors in any space he cannot get out of
• Travel anxiety may be caused by both motion sickness, confinement, or just from a new experience
• Noise anxiety can occur during thunderstorms, fireworks displays, or any other loud or sudden noise
• Separation anxiety is caused by being alone or being without the one they want such as a playmate or person they usually play with

Each different type of anxiety has its own set of causes, which include:

Confinement Anxiety

• Fenced in a yard
• Inside dog pen or kennel
• 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 strange 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

If your dog has had more than one panic attack, you should have him checked by your veterinary care provider. A complete physical examination and maybe some laboratory tests (fecal smear, urinalysis and complete blood count) should be done to make sure your dog does not have any underlying conditions that need treatment. If you have a video of your pet while he is in a panicked state, be sure to bring that along with you to the clinic. Keeping a record of the circumstances of the attacks is a valuable tool as well. Documentation of the events can help to pinpoint triggers, in addition to providing key information for the veterinarian.

If your dog continues to have panic attacks, the veterinarian may prescribe anxiety medication alongside behavioural therapy.

Medications

Some of the most common medications that have been successful in treating panic attacks include tranxene, fluoxetine, buspirone, amitriptyline, and alprazolam.

More Exercise

Some experts encourage more vigorous exercise for pets with anxiety and panic attacks. The idea is that the workout will tire your dog physically and mentally so he will not be as anxious. Also, the brain releases increased serotonin, which works like an antianxiety drug.

More Mental Stimulation

Wearing your dog out physically is rarely enough. They need to stimulate their mind with e.g. food puzzles, scenting work, interactive toys etc.

Give Your Dog a Safe Haven

A small room or cage that is just for your dog where he can go to get away can make them feel much safer when needed. Encourage your dog to go to his safe place by bringing him there when he has a panic attack and staying with him until he is calm. However, do not close the door or the cage.

Behavioural programs

Work with a qualified canine behaviourist to address any underlying behavioural issues. Most will asses your dog in their home environment and provide a tailored plan specific to their needs.

Although it may take some time and patience, panic attacks can be managed by working with your dog to help ease the anxiety. If you still have trouble with anxiety, there are pet therapists you can see that may be able to help.