Veterinarians agree: if dogs get overly excited to see their owners, it could be a sign stress and anxiety

Dogs often wait by the front door with tremendous excitement when you come home. In some cases, they may even be the only ones there to greet you. While this can seem heartwarming and reassuring, experts warn that it may also point to a more serious issue: stress or separation anxiety.

Although it is common for dogs to bark, jump, or even urinate out of excitement, veterinarians caution that an overly intense reaction is not always a sign of happiness or well-being. In some cases, it can indicate the opposite.

Within normal limits, it is completely natural for a dog to calmly approach and greet its owner. However, when the reaction is excessive, that level of agitation may suggest the dog struggles to cope with being alone and experiences distress when its owner is away.

This surge of excitement can also affect a dog’s health. In older dogs, these episodes may place added strain on the heart, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Experts say the situation can improve by adjusting certain daily routines, especially during departures and arrivals at home.

Common mistakes

One of the most common mistakes owners make is giving long, emotional goodbyes and overly enthusiastic greetings when they return. These behaviors can reinforce the dog’s feelings of uncertainty and anxiety.

For that reason, veterinarians recommend keeping departures brief and calm, lasting only a few seconds, and avoiding making a big scene when returning home. This helps the dog understand that its owner leaving is not something to worry about.

Over time, these small changes can help reduce the dog’s anxiety and encourage calmer behavior when the owner comes back home.

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