Excessive Energy in Dogs: The Impact of Caregiver-Related Variables and Fear/Anxiety

Abstract

Excessive energy (EE) and hyperactivity are frequent behavioral problems in dogs, with significant implications for canine welfare and caregiver well-being, yet they remain less studied than reactivity/aggression or separation-related problems. This study examined the influence of caregiver-related variables on EE in dogs, as well as the role of fear/anxiety. Data were collected through an online questionnaire from 730 caregivers, and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted. Younger dogs showed higher levels of EE. Among caregiver-related variables, stress, higher perceived caregiving costs, and more positive attitudes towards aversive training emerged as risk factors. In contrast, the ability to recognize chronic pain, knowledge of basic behaviors, and medication use were protective. The final regression model explained 21.3% of the variance, with dog age, caregiver stress, and attitudes towards aversive training being the strongest predictors. When fear/anxiety was added, the explained variance rose to 29.5%, underscoring its relevance as an emotional comorbidity. These findings highlight the central role of caregiver mental health, perceptions, and training practices in shaping EE, while also emphasizing the protective value of pain recognition, education, and medical support. Interventions should therefore integrate caregiver well-being, training strategies, pain assessment, and dogs’ emotional states, in line with a One Welfare perspective.