Anxiety in dogs doesn't always look like barking or destroyed cushions. Many of the most common signs are quiet, easy to miss, and easy to write off as "just personality". Here are five worth paying attention to.
1. Excessive lip licking or yawning when nothing is tired. These are classic calming signals dogs use to soothe themselves in situations that feel uncertain.
2. Pacing or an inability to settle, especially around loud noises like storms, fireworks, or a busy household.
3. Shadowing you from room to room more than usual, or appearing distressed when you leave.
4. Changes in appetite — eating too fast, too slowly, or skipping meals during stressful periods.
5. Withdrawing to hide in a crate, under furniture, or away from the family.
A calming aid such as a weighted wrap or a safe, enclosed bed can help take the edge off day-to-day stress. If signs are frequent, intense, or getting worse, it's worth speaking with your vet or a qualified animal behaviourist — this article is general information, not a substitute for professional advice.