Dog Anxiety Specialist – Melbourne

Helping Dogs Overcome Anxiety, Fear & Emotional Imbalance Through Proven Behavioural Methods

Dog anxiety is one of the most common — and misunderstood — behavioural issues seen today. With over 40 years of hands-on experience and having been awarded Trainer of the Year 2025, I specialise in identifying the true cause of anxiety and restoring calm, confident behaviour in dogs across Melbourne.

Anxiety is not just “nervousness.” It is a deep emotional imbalance that, if left untreated, can develop into reactivity, aggression, destructiveness, or chronic stress. My approach focuses on understanding the dog’s internal state, their environment, and — critically — the energy of the people around them.

What Is Dog Anxiety?

Dog anxiety occurs when a dog cannot regulate stress or emotional overwhelm. It is influenced by:

  • Early life experiences

  • Genetics

  • Trauma

  • Human energy and behaviour

  • Lack of leadership or structure

  • Environmental instability

  • Unclear communication

  • Unresolved fear-driven events

Anxiety often looks different in every dog, which is why a tailored approach is essential.

Common Signs of Anxiety

Your dog may be anxious if they show:

  • Excessive barking or whining

  • Pacing or restlessness

  • Panting when not hot

  • Drooling

  • Hiding or avoidance

  • Hypervigilance (constantly on alert)

  • Shaking or trembling

  • Reactivity towards dogs or people

  • Shadowing you everywhere

  • Compulsive behaviours

  • Destructive behaviour

Many owners misread these as “naughty behaviour,” when in reality, the dog is overwhelmed and asking for help.

My Approach to Treating Anxiety

With thousands of anxious dogs rehabilitated over four decades, my method is structured, calm, and highly effective.

1. Identifying the Root Cause

Every dog has a story. Anxiety is rarely random — it always comes from somewhere.
I pinpoint:

  • Environmental triggers

  • Emotional triggers

  • Learned behaviours

  • Human influence

  • Underlying fear or trauma

  • Relationship or leadership issues

Understanding the origin is the first step to lasting change.

2. Correcting the Emotional State

Dogs cannot learn when they are overwhelmed.
I teach the dog to:

  • Regulate their emotions

  • Develop trust and confidence

  • Follow calm human leadership

  • Stop anticipating threats

  • Relax in all environments

Balanced training — not force, not bribery — is used to guide the dog into a healthier emotional pattern.

3. Teaching the Owner Their Role

Anxious dogs mirror anxious humans.
I help owners:

  • Adjust their energy

  • Use calm communication

  • Set boundaries

  • Reduce reinforcement of anxious behaviour

  • Provide structure and predictability

This is why my work focuses not just on the dog — but on the relationship.

4. A Clear Plan With Real Results

Every consultation includes:

  • Behaviour assessment

  • Anxiety profile

  • Trigger identification

  • Environmental review

  • Corrective strategies

  • Training demonstrations

  • Owner coaching

  • Long-term recovery plan

You will understand why your dog behaves this way and exactly how to fix it.

Types of Anxiety Treated

I work with all forms, including:

  • General Anxiety

  • Separation Anxiety

  • Noise Anxiety (storms, fireworks, alarms)

  • Social Anxiety (dogs or people)

  • Environmental Anxiety

  • Trauma-related Anxiety

  • Rescue Dog Anxiety

  • Fear-Aggression

  • Compulsive behaviours

Why Work With Me?

  • Over 40 years of experience

  • Trainer of the Year 2025

  • Specialist in aggression, fear, trauma, and anxiety

  • Balanced training rooted in psychology, not treats

  • Over 45,000 dogs successfully helped

  • Deep experience with rescue dogs

  • Calm, supportive guidance for owners

  • Melbourne-based behaviourist trusted across Victoria

  • Certified in Emotional Support Dog, Assistance Dog, and Service Dog training

  • Clear, honest feedback — no sugar-coating, no wasted time

I will show you exactly what your dog needs to regain confidence and live a calmer, happier life.

Book a Dog Anxiety Consultation – Melbourne

If your dog is anxious, fearful, reactive, or unable to settle, I can help.

My behavioural consultations include:

  • Full assessment

  • Behavioural plan

  • Handling techniques

  • Owner education

  • On-lead and off-lead correction

  • Structure routines

  • Emotional resetting

  • Follow-up support

  • Access to resources + training videos

  • Optional certification pathways for Emotional Support, Assistance & Service Dogs

You’ll see improvement in the very first session.

📍 Melbourne & Surrounding Suburbs
🚗 In-home sessions available
🦮 All breeds, all issues, all ages