Is My Dog Bored or Anxious? Signs, Differences & How to Help

Sometimes it can feel like you need to be a bit of a pet detective to figure out what your dog is trying to tell you. Is that constant barking coming from boredom? Or is it a sign of anxiety? Understanding the difference between bored and anxious dogs can help you provide the best care possible for your furry friend. At Petdirect, we’re here to help decode your pup’s behaviour, because We Get Pet.

Boredom vs. Anxiety—What’s The Difference?

Dogs, like us, experience a range of emotions. Boredom and anxiety may look similar at times, but the underlying causes and the ways we can help are quite different. A bored dog is craving stimulation, while an anxious dog may feel genuinely distressed or fearful.

Here are some key clues to help distinguish between the two:

• Bored dogs often get into trouble when left alone too long—chewing shoes, raiding the bin, or excessive barking out of sheer frustration.
• Anxious dogs may display trembling, drooling, panting, pacing, or hiding. They might react strongly to specific triggers like thunderstorms, car rides, or being left home alone.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Bored

Let’s face it—life can get busy, and sometimes our pups are left looking for ways to entertain themselves. Here are some tell-tale signs of a bored dog:

• Destructive behaviour like chewing furniture or digging up the yard
• Constant barking or whining with no obvious reason
• Restlessness—pacing or following you around the house all day
• Excessive licking or chewing paws for lack of anything better to do

The good news? Boredom is one of the easiest behavioural issues to turn around with a few simple changes. Try introducing new interactive dog toys, puzzle feeders, or planning more daily walks. Dogs thrive on mental and physical stimulation, and play is their favourite way to beat boredom.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Anxious

Unlike boredom, anxiety in dogs is often tied to fear, insecurity, or past trauma. It’s an emotional response that needs gentle understanding. Watch for signs like:

• Pacing or restlessness, especially during storms or fireworks
• Trembling, drooling, or hiding
• Destructive behaviour only when left alone (separation anxiety)
• Inappropriate urination or defecation inside the home

If your pup shows these signs frequently, they could be living with some form of dog anxiety. Helping them feel safe and secure is key. Consider adding calming essentials like pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or soothing supplements to their daily routine. You might also want to install a smart pet camera to observe behaviours when you’re not home.

How To Help Your Bored Or Anxious Dog

Once you’ve figured out what’s going on, you can start creating a plan. Whether it’s engaging your dog’s brain or helping them feel safe during stress, here are some expert-backed ideas:

For Bored Dogs

• Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh
• Introduce puzzle feeders and interactive toys to challenge their mind
• Schedule multiple short play or training sessions throughout the day
• Try new walking routes or doggie playdates

For Anxious Dogs

• Use anxiety and calming care products such as natural supplements or calming chews
• Create a safe, quiet space with familiar items and a comfy dog bed
• Consider ThunderShirts or anxiety wraps for added comfort
• Introduce desensitisation training for specific triggers, working gradually

And remember, if anxiety is persistent or severe, it’s always best to chat with your local vet or a qualified animal behaviourist for tailored support. At Petdirect, we’re here to help you find the right tools, support, and products backed by expertise—because We Get Pet.

When To Seek Help

Whether it’s excessive shaking or ongoing destructive behaviour, don’t hesitate to seek extra support. Behavioural changes can also be linked to medical concerns, so if in doubt, consult your vet. If your dog needs help settling into a new routine, separation training, or emotional support, you're not alone. There are great resources across New Zealand to support both you and your pup.

Final Woof: Bored or Anxious—You’ve Got This

While it’s not always easy to know what’s behind your dog’s behaviour, understanding their emotional needs is a powerful step in your journey together. Whether your dog is in need of a mental boost or a calm, cuddly space, there’s something to suit every pup on Petdirect.

Explore our range of calming supplements and behavioural aids, toys for stimulation, or browse our bedding options to turn your dog’s space into a peaceful retreat. Join our Pet Perks Loyalty Programme, earn Airpoints, and let us help you make your dog’s tail wag every day.