- Effects of stress in pet owners on dogs in the veterinary clinic
- In the specialist literature
- The research…
- Key findings
- How can I, as a pet owner, make my dog feel safe?
- Here are 5 detailed FAQs on the topic of "Dealing with anxious dogs and how pet owners can make them feel safe":
- Summary: The influence of stress in pet owners on the behavior of dogs in veterinary practice
- Sources
Effects of stress in pet owners on dogs in the veterinary clinic
Based on: Leslie Sinn, CPDT-KA, DVM, DACVB, Behavior Solutions, Ashburn, Virginia
In the specialist literature
Byrne A, Arnott G. Empathy or apathy? Investigation of the influence of owner stress on stress in dogs in an unfamiliar environment. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2024;279:106403. doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2024.106403
The research…
Stress can negatively affect the behavior and well-being of dogs, and factors related to the pet owner can influence the stress levels of dogs in the veterinary clinic.1
Study objective:
This study investigated whether changes in the stress level of the owner affect the stress level of dogs in an unfamiliar environment.
Study design:
28 dogs and their owners were divided into two groups:
- The first group was exposed to a mild stress situation – they had to solve a math problem and then give a short oral presentation.
- The second group watched a video about meditative breathing exercises.
Throughout the experiment, the owners were instructed to ignore their dogs. Heart rate and heart rate variability of both owners and dogs were monitored. The owners' stress levels were recorded before and after the experiment. The dogs were videotaped and subsequently analyzed for stress-related body language.
Results:
None of the interventions resulted in a significant difference in heart rate or heart rate variability of either owners or dogs. However, the dogs' heart rate decreased over time, suggesting that dogs become calmer in new environments when given time to acclimate. This supports the idea that stress can be reduced when dogs are given the opportunity to adapt (e.g., during a visit to the clinic).²
A correlation was found between the heart rates and heart rate variability of owners and their dogs. Component analysis showed that behaviors classified as "alert" in dogs (e.g., standing, staring, panting, pacing) correlated positively with the dogs' mean heart rate.
The results of this study support the concepts of social referencing and emotional contagion between owners and their dogs. This means that the owner's behavior can influence the dog's behavior – and vice versa.³ Visible cues such as "alert" behavior can help identify stressed dogs.
Key findings
Important practical tips:
- Anxiety behavior is common in the clinic:
It is estimated that up to 79% of dogs show signs of stress upon entering the veterinary clinic.⁴ Addressing anxiety and stress through acclimatization and creating the most positive experience possible (see recommended literature) can help reduce stress. - The owner's stress can affect the dog:
Although stress in the owner can influence the dog's stress level, most dogs feel more comfortable in the presence of their primary caregiver.⁵ Examinations and treatments should – if possible – be carried out in the owner's presence. - Tense, anxious dogs also increase the stress of their owners:
In such cases, a preventive medication plan to reduce anxiety and stress can help make the hospital visit more pleasant for everyone involved.⁶ - Caregiver Burden:
This can be a significant burden for owners, especially in the case of incurable, chronically ill, or behaviorally challenged patients. This burden can be reduced by simplifying treatment, clearly defining treatment goals, and planning the next steps together with the owner.⁷
How can I, as a pet owner, make my dog feel safe?
As a pet owner, you can provide a sense of security to an anxious dog in various ways, primarily by offering calmness, reliability, and positive experiences. First and foremost, it's important to remain calm and composed yourself, as dogs are very perceptive of their caregivers' body language and emotional state. A calm voice, gentle movements, and predictable behavior help the dog orient itself towards its caregiver.
Rituals such as a fixed sequence in the preparation of the Veterinary visit, Bringing along a familiar object (e.g., a blanket or a favorite toy) and targeted training in small steps (desensitization) can provide additional security. Reward-based training and positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise when the dog remains calm in stressful situations, strengthen trust in the long term. It is crucial not to overwhelm the dog, but to allow it time to process new stimuli at its own pace.
Here are 5 detailed FAQs on the subject „"Dealing with anxious dogs and how pet owners can give them security"“:
Why is my dog so anxious at the vet, even though he is usually calm?
Many dogs suddenly display intense anxiety at the veterinary clinic, even though they appear relaxed in everyday life. This is because vet visits present dogs with a multitude of unfamiliar and potentially threatening stimuli: strange smells (e.g., from disinfectants or other animals), unfamiliar noises, a confined space, slippery floors, bright lights, and close handling by strangers. All of this can quickly trigger a stress response in dogs, especially those with a sensitive disposition or previous negative experiences.
Furthermore, dogs are very perceptive of their owners' tension – even small changes in posture, voice, or breathing are registered. When a person is tense, it unconsciously amplifies the perception that "something is wrong." This can create a vicious cycle: the dog becomes afraid, the owner becomes anxious, which in turn intensifies the dog's fear. Regular training, positive associations with the veterinary clinic, and the right emotional support from the owner can counteract this cycle in the long term.
What can I do to make my dog feel more secure before and during a visit to the vet?
Preparation is key. Gradually acclimate your dog to everything that happens during a vet visit. This includes practicing getting into the car, entering the practice (even without an appointment), being weighed, or being held by a second person – all without stress and always with positive reinforcement such as treats, petting, or play.
During the visit itself, your own presence and calmness are crucial. Speak calmly to your dog, maintain gentle physical contact if he enjoys it, and avoid sudden movements. Bring familiar items such as a blanket, a worn t-shirt, or a toy to create a "safe zone." Many veterinary practices now offer "fear-free" approaches, which focus on handling the animal with minimal stress and paying particular attention to its emotional state—be sure to ask about this.
For particularly anxious dogs, a calming plan tailored to their individual needs and recommended by a veterinarian can be helpful. This may include natural remedies, pheromone sprays, or, in severe cases, prescription medications. However, these should never be administered without consulting a veterinarian.
How can I tell if my dog is truly scared or just uncomfortable?
A dog's body language provides many clues as to whether it feels uncomfortable or actually afraid. When experiencing mild insecurity, dogs often display de-escalating signals such as yawning, lip licking, looking away, or turning their body away. These signs serve to reduce tension and avoid conflict.
Fear, on the other hand, can manifest itself in stronger avoidance behavior: trembling, tucked tail, crouched posture, tense muscles, panting, excessive salivation, barking, whining, or even freezing. Some dogs try to flee or react aggressively out of fear.
An important distinguishing feature is the intensity and duration of the behavior, as well as the reaction to stimuli: An anxious dog often can no longer engage with food or play, reacts excessively sensitively to minor triggers, and its reactions are no longer controllable. Pay attention to these signs and, if in doubt, consult a veterinary behaviorist or dog trainer specializing in anxiety-related behaviors for an accurate assessment.
Can I completely "train away" fearful behavior in my dog?
Anxiety in many dogs can be significantly reduced through targeted training, but a complete "cure" is not always possible – especially when it involves genetically predisposed anxiety or deeply ingrained past experiences. The primary goal of training is therefore to improve the dog's quality of life, minimize stress, and enable a safe and confident approach to anxiety-provoking situations.
A proven training approach is the combination of Desensitisation (gradual habituation to the trigger) and Counterconditioning (Associating the trigger with something positive). It's important to structure the training in small steps so that the dog is never overwhelmed. For example: Instead of taking the dog directly to the vet's office, start by having him approach the building, then enter the building, and later explore the waiting area – all at his own pace and with positive reinforcement.
At the same time, it can be helpful to work on the dog's overall stress resilience – for example, by establishing routines, providing physical exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent caregivers. In many cases, collaboration with a qualified behavior therapist is recommended.
What can I do if my dog is afraid of certain people (e.g., veterinarians)?
If your dog has a specific fear of certain groups of people – often veterinarians, men, people wearing certain types of clothing (e.g., lab coats) – it's important to work on building trust and to reinforce positive associations with these stimuli. This means the dog should learn: "This person doesn't foreshadow anything bad, but brings me good things."„
A possible first step is establishing a positive ritual: The person involved – in a clinic, possibly a member of the veterinary team – regularly gives the dog a high-value treat without touching it. Only when the dog remains relaxed can further steps, such as petting or touching, be practiced. It is important that the dog is always allowed to retreat. Forcing or overwhelming the dog will only exacerbate the problem.
Sometimes it's also helpful to change veterinary practices or specifically look for a veterinary behaviorist or a "Fear-Free" certified practice that has experience with such dogs. In the long term, it's crucial not only to prepare the dog for veterinary procedures but also to restore its trust in the situation through controlled encounters with friendly people.
Summary: The influence of stress in pet owners on the behavior of dogs in veterinary practice
Stress in pet owners is a significant factor that can substantially influence the behavior and emotional well-being of dogs – especially in stressful situations such as visits to the veterinarian. Studies show that owner stress should not be considered in isolation, as dogs are very sensitive to the emotional state of their caregivers. Owner stress can be directly transferred to the dog, a phenomenon known as... emotional contagion or social reference is known.
A scientific study has demonstrated that stress in pet owners can have measurable effects on a dog's heart rate and behavior. Even if the owner's physiological values don't rise significantly, stress in the owner can influence the dog's behavior, manifesting as alertness, restlessness, or avoidance behavior. Stress in the owner often leads to the dog appearing more anxious or overly sensitive to stimuli because it perceives its owner's insecurity.
It is therefore essential to recognize and actively reduce stress in the pet owner to ensure the animal has as stress-free a visit to the veterinary practice as possible. Ways to reduce stress include breathing exercises, providing information in advance, or practicing certain procedures. If stress in the pet owner is ignored, it can lead to consequences such as transferred anxiety, increased behavioral problems, or even aggression in the dog. Stress in the pet owner not only negatively affects the dog but also the quality of veterinary treatment and cooperation with the practice team.
A key aspect of managing stress in pet owners is communication. Veterinary teams should respond empathetically to concerns and recognize early signs of stress in pet owners. At the same time, pet owners should be actively informed about their influence on their animals' behavior. If stress in pet owners arises from a lack of information, even a brief informational conversation can provide relief.
However, if stress in the pet owner is caused by worry about the animal's health – e.g., in the case of chronic or terminal illnesses – this is referred to as so-called Caregiver Burden. Even in such cases, stress for the pet owner must be specifically addressed, for example by simplifying the treatment plan or by providing emotional support. In the long term, it helps if practices create structures that reduce stress for both the pet owner and the animal – e.g., through separate waiting areas, low-stress treatment rooms, or relaxed appointment scheduling.
In summary, stress in pet owners is a critical factor in veterinary practice. If it is not recognized or is underestimated, it can lead to misinterpretations of animal behavior. A better understanding of the effects of stress in pet owners offers the opportunity to sustainably improve veterinary experiences for both animals and humans. Measures such as coaching, behavioral therapy, or the use of calming medications can effectively reduce stress in pet owners. Regular desensitization training sessions and positive reinforcement in everyday life also reduce stress in pet owners in the long term – especially for owners of anxious or insecure dogs.
Ultimately, stress in pet owners is a serious, often underestimated factor in everyday practice. Through targeted education, empathy, and cooperation, the negative effects of pet owner stress on animal behavior and health can be significantly reduced. By openly addressing pet owner stress and offering practical support, a trusting relationship is established – the foundation for successful veterinary care.
Sources
- Stellato AC, Dewey CE, Widowski TM, Niel L. Evaluation of associations between owner presence and indicators of fear in dogs during routine veterinary examinations. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2020;257(10):1031-1040. doi:10.2460/javma.2020.257.10.1031
- Hernander L. Factors Influencing Dogs' Stress Level in the Waiting Room at a Veterinary Clinic. Student report. Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; 2009.
- Merola I, Prato-Previde E, Marshall-Pescini S. Dogs' social referencing towards owners and strangers. PLoS One. 2012;7(10):e47653. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0047653
- Döring D, Roscher A, Scheipl F, Küchenhoff H, Erhard MH. Fear-related behavior of dogs in veterinary practice. Vet J. 2009;182(1):38-43. doi:10.1016/j.tvjl.2008.05.006
- Stellato AC, Flint HE, Dewey CE, Widowski TM, Niel L. Risk-factors associated with veterinary-related fear and aggression in owned domestic dogs. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2021;241:105374. doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105374
- Volk JO, Thomas JG, Colleran EJ, Siren CW. Executive summary of phase 3 of the Bayer veterinary care utilization study. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2014;244(7):799-802. doi:10.2460/javma.244.7.799
- Kuntz K, Ballantyne KC, Cousins E, Spitznagel MB. Assessment of caregiver burden in owners of dogs with behavioral problems and factors related to its presence. J Vet Behav. 2023;64-65:41-46. doi:10.1016/j.jveb.2023.05.006
Reading suggestions
- Fear Free: leaders in animal wellbeing. Fear Free. Accessed February 2025. fearfreepets.com
- Miller P, Sinn L, eds. Veterinary Cooperative Care: Enhancing Animal Health Through Collaboration with Veterinarians, Pet Owners, and Animal Trainers. Dogwise Publishing; 2024.
- What is Low Stress Handling? CattleDog Publishing. Accessed February 2025. cattledogpublishing.com/LSH