Understanding Dog Anxiety:
An Expert's View
Dr. E’Lise Christensen Bell (Dr. C) is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist on a mission to bring joy, curiosity, and understanding to pets and their people.
With 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine, Dr. C started from the ground up—cleaning cages and training therapy dogs at 16—progressing through puppy classes, dog training, and veterinary school, including a veterinary behavior residency at Cornell. Her journey includes hands-on roles in sheltering, general, specialty, and feline-only practices, giving her a well-rounded, compassionate perspective on the behavioral challenges families face.
Today, Dr. C’s boutique veterinary behavior service blends academic insights with practical solutions, creating a supportive space for families navigating pet behavior issues and professionals worldwide. Her service is a vibrant hub of consulting, international lectures, and media contributions, all dedicated to advancing animal behavior, public health, and sheltering knowledge.​
Expert view from NYC to Colorado
"Some behaviors that are consistent with anxiety are also consistent with fear. And the pathways in the brain are related but different."
Decoding Anxiety: Different Than Fear
Dr. Christensen emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between fear and anxiety in dogs. While the two are related, they manifest differently. She notes that young dogs (8-16 weeks) showing excessive fear and poor resilience may be more prone to developing long-term fear or anxiety disorders. Additionally, dogs adopted from shelters or those with early disruptions in social relationships may also be at a higher risk.
”Some behaviors that are consistent with anxiety are also consistent with fear. And the pathways in the brain are related but different."
​
Settling In: How Long Does It Take?
A common question among new pet owners is how long it takes for a dog to adjust to a new home. While there's an admitted "three-month rule" in the U.S., Dr. Christensen points out that there's no solid research to back this up. Her experience suggests that many dogs can adapt quickly, sometimes within days or a week, especially those with resilient brains and strong social skills. However, she also works with complex cases where pets have struggled for a long time before seeking specialized help.
​
The Role of Calming Products
The market is flooded with products claiming to calm anxious dogs, such as CBD and hemp supplements. Dr. Christensen acknowledges that some supplements with scientific backing can be helpful and that the availability of these products can raise awareness about anxiety in pets. However, she cautions against relying solely on these products, as they may delay seeking proper veterinary care. There's also the issue of quality control, with some products not containing what they claim.
Crates: Help or Hindrance?
Crates are another debated topic. Dr. Christensen believes in “environmental accommodation,” focusing on creating an environment that supports the dog's well-being. If a dog feels safe in a confined space, a crate can be beneficial. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution and can be detrimental to some dogs' mental health. She advises against a universal approach to crate training, emphasizing the importance of understanding each dog's individual needs.
Dr. Christensen stresses that dogs are individuals with unique needs. She advises pet owners to move away from rigid “rules” of dog parenting and focus on what works best for their specific animal.
​
​
Environment Matters
Dr. Christensen highlights the impact of the environment on a dog's anxiety levels. She contrasts working in New York City, with its intense urban environment, to Colorado, where triggers are often more manageable. This underscores the importance of considering environmental factors in addressing dog anxiety.
​
​
Medication Use:
Finally, Dr. Christensen acknowledges that while medication can be a valuable tool in treating canine anxiety, particularly in certain cases, it's important that pet owners receive proper guidance from veterinary professionals when pursuing this treatment path. She also highlights the growing body of research demonstrating the positive impact of alternative therapies on the pet's brain. This is particularly relevant for pet owners who may be reluctant to use medication, as dietary interventions and other non-pharmaceutical approaches can offer effective ways to manage their dog's anxiety.
Conclusion
Dr. Christensen's insights provide a comprehensive overview of the complexities of dog anxiety. Her emphasis on individualized care, the importance of distinguishing between fear and anxiety, and the need for critical evaluation of common practices and products offers valuable guidance for pet owners seeking to improve their dogs' well-being. By moving beyond generalized advice and focusing on the unique needs of each animal, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment for our canine companions.
​​​
​
Stay tuned for more insights and expert advice on pet behavior!