Dogs aren’t just pets; they’re little furry family members who bring endless joy to our lives. But some breeds, unfortunately, are known for being a bit on the anxious side. If you’re wondering which dog breeds are best known for worrying, then you’re in the right place. Here are 20 of the most sensitive dog breeds out there.
Great Dane
Not just a giant in size, Great Danes are also giant babies when it comes to emotions. These big sweethearts bond deeply with their humans and hate being left alone. They’re the type of dog that’ll follow you from room to room, always looking for a reassuring cuddle.
Their sensitive hearts mean they need homes with lots of love and attention, and of course, enough space to spread out!
Newfoundland
Also nicknamed the “nanny dog,” Newfoundlands are big bundles of love who adore their families and want to be included in everything. But this also means that when left out or ignored, they can become anxious and even destructive, suffering from extreme amounts of separation anxiety. Their soft, sensitive nature means they’re best suited to homes where someone’s around to shower them with affection at all times.
Saint Bernard
Despite their heroic history as mountain rescue dogs, Saint Bernards are total softies at heart and are happiest when surrounded by their family. They don’t do well being left on their own for too long and can develop separation anxiety if they feel neglected or excluded. While their size might make them seem tough, they’re really just big, adorable dogs who need a steady dose of affection and attention to keep their stress levels in check.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Known for their sweet, loyal nature, Bernese mountain dogs are happiest in calm, predictable environments. They can become nervous in chaotic households where there’s too much noise and uncertainty. Their ideal day involves being close to their humans, soaking up the calm with a bit of outdoor playtime.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish wolfhounds may look like they’re ready to take on the world, but these dogs can actually be sensitive souls. They form deep bonds with their families and don’t cope well with loneliness or tension at home. When left alone for too long, they can get anxious, often retreating into themselves or showing their stress through quiet behaviour. A calm and stable household is key to bringing out the best in these sweet-tempered dogs. So, if you’re after a loyal, loving companion, then an Irish Wolfhound is the dog for you.
German Shepherd
There’s no denying that German Shepherds are smart, loyal, and sensitive, but this can also lead to anxiety. They can easily pick up on emotions, so if your home is chaotic or tense, they’ll feel it too. Also, without enough mental stimulation or exercise, they can become restless and stressed, turning all that nervous energy into unwanted behaviours like chewing or barking.
Golden Retriever
As the ultimate people-pleasers, Golden Retrievers can become anxious if they feel something is off with their owners. They don’t cope well with being ignored or scolded, as it cuts straight to their sensitive little hearts. Instead, these sweet dogs thrive in loving, affectionate homes where their playful ways are met with lots of praise and cuddles. A happy Golden is one who feels like they’re part of the family, included in every adventure.
Labrador Retriever
Most people know labradors for being the life and soul of the party, but they can become anxious if they’re left alone for too long. They absolutely adore their humans and need plenty of activity and interaction to keep their tails wagging. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can become anxious and might channel that nervous energy into chewing, barking, or being destructive.
Border Collie
As Einsteins of the dog world, Border Collies are clever, energetic, and always on the go. But along with great intelligence, they can also experience great amounts of anxiety. These dogs are happiest when they’ve got a job to do, whether it’s herding sheep, learning new tricks, or tackling a challenging game, and if their lives lack this, then they can become very anxious.
Australian Shepherd
Always ready for action and affection, Australian Shepherds have clever minds and sensitive hearts, which means they can easily become anxious without enough stimulation or interaction. These dogs prefer homes where they’re given plenty of tasks, like playing games, going on adventures, or practicing agility tricks. If left to their own devices, they might channel their stress into mischief such as chewing, digging, or barking.
Boxer
Boxers love nothing more than bringing joy wherever they go, but they’re also incredibly people-focused and can struggle with being left alone. Their energetic personalities mean they prefer households where they’re constantly engaged, such as playing fetch, learning tricks, or just snuggling on the sofa, and without this, they can develop separation anxiety.
Beagle
They might have huge personalities, but beagles also have a strong pack mentality, which makes them prone to anxiety when separated from their loved ones. These sociable dogs thrive in environments where they feel included and have plenty of mental stimulation. They love being a part of the family and are always up for a long walk with their favourite humans.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These affectionate little pups form deep bonds with their humans from the very start, which means they don’t do well with loneliness or being ignored. They’re happiest in homes where they’re doted on, showered with love, and included in daily life. Their gentle, sensitive nature makes them wonderful family pets, but they can become anxious in chaotic or noisy environments, so they do best in calm households.
Dachshund
Yes, Dachsunds might be small, but their personalities are absolutely massive, which means so are their feelings. These adorable pups are fiercely loyal to their humans, which can sometimes tip into separation anxiety when they’re left alone for too long. They’re happiest when they’re part of the action and thrive in homes where they’re given plenty of reassurance and attention to keep their nerves in check.
Miniature Schnauzer
We can all agree that miniature schnauzers are spirited little dogs with heaps of energy, but what you may not know is that they’re also massively sensitive. They’re incredibly loyal and love being close to their families, but they can get anxious if their routines change or they don’t get enough attention. These clever pups need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep their minds and paws busy.
Miniature Schnauzers do best in homes where their needs are met with love and consistency, as they’ll be able to reward their owners with endless loyalty and a lively, affectionate personality that’s hard to resist.
Pug
A great thing about pugs is that they’re the ultimate cuddle buddies, happiest when they’re nestled on your lap or by your side. They have a playful nature that makes them wonderful companions, but their deep attachment to their humans can lead to anxiety if they feel left out. They always need to have interactions with their owners and love nothing more than being the centre of attention. If ignored for too long, they might sulk or even act out to get your focus back.
Shih Tzu
As the definition of lap dogs, Shih Tzus have sweet and affectionate natures with endless love for their humans. However, these little fluff balls don’t cope well with being left alone for long periods, and chaotic households can make them feel stressed. They much prefer homes where there’s a predictable routine and plenty of cuddles to keep them feeling secure.
Chihuahua
These pint-sized pups form strong bonds with their families, which means they can become anxious when separated or exposed to too much noise and tension. They’re happiest when they’re spoilt with attention, reassurance, and the occasional cosy lap to curl up on. Despite their size, Chihuahuas are surprisingly brave, but their sensitivity means they need gentle handling and a calm environment to thrive in.
Italian Greyhound
If you’ve owned an Italian greyhound before, then you’ll already know that they form deep attachments to their families. They’re also easily rattled by loud noises or unpredictable environments, so both of these facts mean these sensitive pups need a quiet, loving home where they can relax and enjoy their owners’ affection. Italian Greyhounds are all about connection and love, making them perfect for anyone who adores a sensitive soul.
Cocker Spaniel
Thanks to their sensitive nature, cocker spaniels are prone to anxiety. These affectionate dogs love nothing more than companionship and hate being left out of family activities. Chaos or tension at home can leave them feeling unsettled, so a calm and loving environment is key. With plenty of attention and reassurance, Cocker Spaniels will shower their families with unconditional love.