Texas A&M spotlights early signs of fear and anxiety in dogs

Many dogs show fear or anxiety in ordinary situations, and Texas A&M’s VMBS is urging earlier recognition of those signs before they escalate. In a May 7, 2026 Pet Talk article, veterinary behavior expert Dr. Bonnie Beaver said common signals can include freezing, seeking extra attention, shaking, trembling, whining, leaning away, or avoiding interaction, with frequent triggers including thunderstorms, unfamiliar people, unfamiliar dogs, and new situations. Beaver also stressed that pet parents shouldn’t punish fearful behavior, but also shouldn’t inadvertently reinforce it, instead tracking whether episodes are becoming more frequent, longer, or more intense. (vetmed.tamu.edu)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the message aligns with longstanding behavior guidance that fear and stress affect not just welfare, but care delivery. AAHA notes that fear during veterinary visits is common, that heavy-handed restraint can worsen future handling and safety, and that low-stress handling, quiet environments, positive reinforcement, and previsit anxiolytics for appropriate patients can improve outcomes. More broadly, the practical goal is helping dogs feel safe through predictability, reduced stressors, and supportive handling rather than punishment. That creates an opening for clinics to position themselves as early partners in behavior triage, especially when pet parents report subtle changes that may otherwise be dismissed at home. (aaha.org)

What to watch: Expect continued emphasis on earlier screening, behavior history-taking, and referrals or treatment plans when mild fear starts becoming a chronic welfare or safety issue, with clinics increasingly coaching owners on simple at-home safety and comfort strategies as well as when to seek medical or behavior support. (vetmed.tamu.edu)