Dog Panic Attacks: Symptoms and How to Calm a Terrified Dog

Common Owner Mistakes That Delay Relief
Even with good intentions, some responses can worsen panic:

• Punishing a dog for destructive behavior, which intensifies fear
  
  

• Forcing the dog to face the fear (“flooding”), which can escalate panic
  
  

• Holding or hugging a dog tightly while they’re trying to escape, increasing the risk of a redirected bite
  
  

• Relying on ineffective remedies, such as essential oils, for severe clinical panic
  
  

Identifying a Panic Attack

Physical signs (the adrenaline dump)
During a panic attack, you may see:

• Panting and pacing with rapid, shallow breathing and an inability to settle
  
  

• Trembling or full-body shaking
  
  

• Escape behaviors such as clawing at doors, windows, or crates, sometimes causing injury
  
  

• Excessive salivation with thick drool
  
  

• Dilated pupils, giving the eyes a wide or “whale eye” appearance
  
  

Common triggers
Panic attacks are often triggered by:

• Thunderstorms or fireworks (noise phobias)
  
  

• Veterinary visits
  
  

• Separation when the owner leaves
  
  

Emergency Management: Grounding Techniques

The bunker
Create a safe, sound-insulated space such as a closet or bathroom with no windows. Use white noise to help block sudden sounds.

The Thundershirt
Compression vests apply gentle pressure that can release calming endorphins in some dogs.

Medication (the bridge)
For predictable events like fireworks or storms, fast-acting medications are essential. Options such as dexmedetomidine gel (Sileo) or trazodone can prevent panic from escalating. A dog cannot be trained during a panic attack—medication is needed to stop the physiological response first.

Red Flags and Timing Rules (Safety First)

Go to a physical emergency clinic immediately if:

• The dog injures itself while trying to escape (bleeding nails, broken teeth)
  
  

• The dog overheats from constant panting and pacing (risk of heat stroke)
  
  

• The dog becomes aggressive or delirious due to fear
  
  

Schedule a same-day veterinary evaluation if:

• Panic attacks are becoming more frequent
  
  

• The dog is causing significant destruction in the home