Recommended for dogs 6 months and older
Dog Anxiety Quiz: How Calm Is Your Dog?
This free dog anxiety quiz helps you understand how your dog responds to storms, loud noises, and everyday stress. It takes 4-6 minutes, and you’ll see an educational calm score at the end.
How the Calm Test works
The Hunter’s Heart Calm Test is a dog anxiety quiz that walks you through 7 short stages about your dog’s behavior, from reactions to sudden noises to how your dog settles at home. Answer based on what you’ve actually seen, not what you hope is true. When you finish, you’ll receive a calm score and a few gentle, practical ideas to support your dog’s comfort. The score is an internal educational guide. It is not a validated veterinary scale or a diagnosis.
Common signs of anxiety in dogs
Dogs show stress in many ways, and some signs are easy to miss. The more obvious ones include trembling, panting, pacing, drooling, whining, hiding, and trying to escape. Subtler signs include repeated yawning, lip licking, and refusing treats. If you notice several of these signs together, or they appear in the same situations again and again, the quiz can help you see the pattern.
What can trigger fear and stress
Many dogs react to loud, sudden, or unpredictable sounds. Thunderstorms and fireworks are the best-known triggers, but sirens, construction, vacuum cleaners, and household noises can also upset a sensitive dog. Some dogs begin to react before a storm even arrives, because they notice the wind, the darkening sky, or changes in air pressure. Knowing your dog’s triggers makes it easier to plan ahead.
Simple ways to support a calmer routine
Small habits can help your dog feel more secure:
- Create a quiet, familiar space your dog can go to.
- Keep your own tone and movements relaxed.
- Use a consistent routine on stormy or noisy days.
- Use a consistent routine on stormy or noisy days.
- Offer gentle comfort without forcing attention.
- Plan ahead for known events such as holidays and storm seasons.
For a closer look at fear of storms and fireworks, see Cornell’s guide to fear of fireworks and thunderstorms..
When to talk to your veterinarian
Please check with your veterinarian first if your dog’s fear is severe, if your dog hurts itself while trying to escape, or if you notice a sudden change in behavior. Changes in appetite, sleep, or mood can also have medical causes. The Calm Test is educational and does not replace professional advice.
Calm Balm for your dog's routine
Hunter’s Heart Calm Balm was born from Hunter’s own fear of storms. It’s made with lavender, Roman chamomile, and frankincense, and is designed to be part of a repeatable routine before known events. Learn more about Calm Balm.
Frequently asked questions
Is this dog anxiety quiz free?
Yes. This dog anxiety quiz and your calm score are free.
Is the quiz a diagnosis?
No. It is an educational guide to help you notice patterns. Your veterinarian can assess any medical or behavioral concern.
How long does it take?
About 4-6 minutes.
Does it work for puppies and senior dogs?
The Calm Test is recommended for dogs 6 months of age and older. Puppies under 6 months are still learning about the world, and their reactions to sounds and new situations change quickly, so the results may not give a reliable picture. Senior dogs are welcome. If your senior dog’s fear is new or has suddenly gotten worse, please check with your veterinarian first.
What should I do with my results?
Use them as a starting point. Notice which situations affect your dog most, and talk with your veterinarian if the score points to significant stress.
Want to know more about your dog’s overall wellness?
Try our free Dog Health Score.