Dog Anxiety Decoded: Expert Tips from Animal Trainer Nikki Varva

In this episode of In The Vet’s Office , Dr. Josie Horchak welcomes back fan-favorite guest Nikki Varva, expert dog trainer and founder of Always Training K9s. Together, they take a deep dive into the often misunderstood world of canine anxiety, exploring not just how it shows up—from subtle cues to more serious behavioral issues—but also what you can do to help. Josie and Nikki discuss practical strategies including crate training, tethering, and setting healthy boundaries, all of which can support a dog’s ability to self-soothe and feel secure. They also unpack common indicators of stress that may surprise even experienced pet parents, and share tools for managing separation anxiety with compassion and consistency. Whether you're raising a new puppy or supporting an anxious adult dog, this episode is full of real-world advice and actionable tips to help your canine companion find calm in a chaotic world. Don’t miss this insightful and heartwarming conversation! 🐾 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.