Bringing home a new Labrador puppy is one of life’s great joys. Whether it's their soft ears and permanently wagging tails, or their over-enthusiastic ornament-shattering zoomies around the house, before they suddenly fall asleep mid-play - almost as if someone has pulled their batteries out! But just like people, Labrador puppies come with their own worries, quirks and occasional anxieties.

Some degree of nervousness is completely normal. Puppies are tiny explorers in a huge and confusing world. Everything from the postman to a plastic bag blowing past can seem scary when you’re that small. Labradors, in particular, tend to feel things deeply. They’re sensitive, people-focused dogs who form strong attachments very quickly. But when fear starts taking over, or your puppy can’t seem to settle, that’s when anxiety becomes a real issue.

What is anxiety in dogs?

Anxiety is an increased state of fear in response to perceived threats. Think of it as your Labrador’s brain being on high alert and anticipating danger, even when there isn’t any real threat present.

• Fear is a normal, immediate response to something scary that’s happening (like a loud bang or an unfamiliar dog).

• Anxiety is worrying about something that might happen, or anticipating a threat that isn’t actually there yet.

• A phobia is an extreme, irrational fear that triggers an over-the-top reaction.

It’s completely normal for dogs to feel anxious from time to time, but it becomes a problem when that anxiety is intense and persistent. Or if it’s ignored. If left to build up, especially in a sensitive, intelligent breed like a Labrador, it can develop into a full-blown anxiety disorder.

What causes anxiety in Labradors?

Labrador puppies can develop anxiety for lots of reasons. It’s often a combination of factors rather than one cause.

Poor socialisation
If puppies don’t have positive, gentle exposure to new people, dogs, sounds and situations during their critical socialisation period (particularly up to around 14–16 weeks), they may develop long-lasting fears. Labradors are generally friendly, but without good early experiences, they can become easily overwhelmed rather than confident.

Genetics
Some Labradors are naturally more sensitive than others. Labradors from working-lines and any dogs bred for high energy and intense focus can be especially alert and reactive. Others may simply inherit a more anxious temperament.

Past experiences
Puppies can be affected by negative experiences. Even something that seems minor to us - like a frightening encounter with another dog - can leave a lasting impression. Rescue Labradors may also carry anxiety linked to earlier trauma or instability.

High energy and lack of stimulation
Labradors are energetic, intelligent dogs who need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation. If denied opportunities to burn off all that energy, boredom soon follows and often leads to anxiety.

Health issues
Pain can trigger fearful or anxious behaviour. Labradors are prone to certain joint and growth-related issues, even as puppies, which is why a vet check should always be the first step.

Common triggers of anxiety

• Loud noises: Fireworks, thunderstorms, gunshots and, yes, even the hoover. Noise sensitivity is very common in Labradors.

• Separation: Labradors form very strong bonds with their families and often struggle when left alone, even for short periods.

• Other dogs and people: Under-socialised puppies may find unfamiliar dogs or strangers overwhelming rather than exciting.

• New places: The car, the vet, busy parks - anything that’s outside their comfort zone can trigger anxiety (much like humans).

• Changes in routine: Labradors thrive on predictability. Moving house, a new baby or even changes to your work schedule can be deeply unsettling.

What are the signs of anxiety?

Signs of anxiety can range from subtle behaviours, like trembling, pacing or panting, to more obvious barking, whining or destructive chewing.

Watch out for excessive yawning or lip-licking, turning their head away, tucking their tail under, crouching or trying to hide. Some Labradors may freeze completely or show exaggerated “submissive” behaviours. These are all ways your puppy is telling you, “I’m not coping with this!”

In more extreme cases, fear can tip over into aggression. If your puppy feels trapped or threatened, they may growl, snap, or even bite. This is serious behaviour and needs immediate professional support.

What to do if your Labrador puppy shows signs of anxiety

• Start with a vet check-up to rule out pain or medical causes.

• Once health issues are ruled out, a qualified behaviourist is your best option. They’ll create a behaviour modification plan which is tailored to your Labrador’s needs.

• Your vet or behaviourist may recommend anti-anxiety medication to use alongside training and behaviour work.

• Reduce exposure to triggers where possible, while you work on the problem.

• Create a safe space at home where your puppy can retreat. Use familiar bedding, favourite toys, calming pheromone diffusers and long-lasting chews or food-stuffed Kongs.

• Stick to a consistent daily routine - predictability helps anxious Labradors to feel secure.

What NOT to do

• Never punish an anxious puppy. It may well be frustrating when they chew furniture or bark incessantly, but punishment will only worsen anxiety. Your Labrador isn’t being naughty. They’re genuinely distressed.

• Don’t rely solely on calming supplements or pheromones. Without professional behavioural support, these are just a temporary plaster over a bigger issue.

• Don’t ignore the problem and hope your puppy will just “grow out of it”. Without intervention, anxiety almost always gets worse over time.

• Avoid early neutering, unless you’ve discussed it with your vet and behaviourist beforehand. In some Labradors, fear and anxiety can worsen after neutering, so building up confidence should come first.

Finding the right help

When choosing a behaviourist, make sure they’re properly qualified and use modern, ethical methods. Look for professionals registered with organisations like the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). Your vet can help guide you to the right support.

Q&As: Labrador Puppy Anxiety

Q: Can Labrador puppies grow out of anxiety?
A: Unfortunately, not. Anxiety doesn’t disappear with age and often gets worse without help. However, early support from a vet and behaviourist will help most Labradors to manage their anxiety and grow into confident adults.

Q: My Labrador destroys the house when I leave. Is this separation anxiety or bad behaviour?
A: To be honest, it could be either. That’s why professional assessment is important. True separation anxiety involves genuine distress, and often goes along with barking, pacing, drooling or toileting indoors.

Q: Should I comfort my Labrador when they’re scared?
A: Yes. Calm, gentle reassurance won’t reinforce fear. Overly dramatic reactions can increase anxiety, but quiet support is helpful.

Q: How long does it take to treat anxiety?
A: There’s no quick fix. Some Labradors improve within weeks, others need months of consistent work. Patience and consistency are key.

Puppy anxiety isn’t something to manage alone, especially in a people-loving breed like the Labrador. And it won’t simply disappear with time. With the right professional support, most Labradors can learn to feel safer, calmer and more confident. It takes patience and consistency, but the rewards of a happy, well-adjusted dog make it absolutely worthwhile.

Join us next month for a blog all about neutering your puppy—what to expect, when to do it, and how to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.