8 Sure-Fire Ways to Calm Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s Anxiety

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How To Conquer Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s Separation Anxiety, Sound Anxiety or Travel Anxiety

If your Staffordshire Bull Terrier is experiencing anxiety, life can be miserable both for you and your pup. I myself spent 2 years battling extreme separation anxiety with my dog, and we successfully came out on the other side. In this article I’ll share some of the resources and strategies that worked for us.

There are many forms of anxiety that your Staffordshire Bull Terrier may be suffering from. Typical causes of anxiety in Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s might be:

• Separation anxiety – Fear of being separated from their owner. This often manifests itself by your Staffordshire Bull Terrier pacing, drooling, biting, or being destructive while you’re away.
• Sound anxiety – Fear of loud noises like thunder, fireworks, or a vacuum cleaner
• Travel anxiety – Fear of traveling in a moving vehicle, or fear of intimidating places like your vet’s office or a boarding kennel

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1. Experiment with Hemp Oil for Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s Anxiety

One of the tools I successfully used in treating my dog’s anxiety was hemp. While your results may vary, approximately 67% of the dog owners polled here claimed that hemp was ‘extremely effective’ or ‘somewhat effective’ in helping their dog’s anxiety.

In my experience, hemp helped my dog calm down enough to respond positively to the other training methods I was using to treat her anxiety. When choosing a hemp oil, always look for a certificate of analysis showing a pure and safe product. I’d also recommend a product with 0% THC.

If you’d rather not give an hemp oil tincture to your dog, there are also great full spectrum hemp treat options available for dogs on Amazon. 

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2. Desensitize Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier to The Cause of Their Anxiety

A key strategy for treating your Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s anxiety is desensitizing them to the trigger of their fear. For example, my dog’s anxiety was triggered anytime I walked out the door to leave the house. For other dogs, the trigger might be you grabbing your keys or putting on your coat.

Begin by doing the trigger activity, but then immediately reversing it. For example, I would grab my keys and walk out the door. Then I’d come back 5 seconds later. I did this literally hundreds of times over a period of a week. Eventually, my dog was desensitized and bored by the behavior.

Related: Best Calming Treat for Dogs

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3. For Sound Anxiety, Trying Isolating Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Playing Loud Music

Many Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s that suffer from thunderstorm or fireworks anxiety experience relief in a smaller, more isolated room of the house where music can be played at a loud volume. A word of caution though, if your dog is also experiences separation anxiety leaving them alone in a room during may be counterproductive.

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4. Try Using a Compression Wrap (Available in Many Sizes and Will Fit Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier)

Many dogs are comforted by the feeling of compression across their body. One popular product many have found success with is the Thundershirt (available on Amazon and Chewy). The product applies gentle, calming pressure that is very reassuring to many pups. The company claims the product to be helpful for about 80% of the dogs who tried it. It can be used to help calm your Staffordshire Bull Terrier during fireworks, thunder, separation, travel, or vet visits, with no training and no medication required.

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5. Try an Herbal Supplement for Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier with Calming Herbs Like Chamomile, Passion Flower, Ginger Root or Valerian Root

Many calming supplements exist for dogs that are palatable for dogs, easy-to-feed, and can help quickly relieve your Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s stress and give a sense of safety and calm. Some supplements contain calming herbs like chamomile, passion flower, ginger root, and valerian root are a great option. 

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6. Experiment with a Pheromone Diffuser for Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Canine pheromone diffusers mimic the calming pheromone that a mother dog emits while nursing her puppies. The diffuser can help many dogs feel calmer and more comfortable in stressful situations. The same company that makes the Thundershirt above also makes a product called ThunderEase diffuser, which is also available on Amazon and Chewy.

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7. Try an Anti-Anxiety Supplement Containing L-Tryptophan, L-Theanine or Melatonin

Other popular ingredients in anti-anxiety supplements include the amino acids L-Tryptophan and L-Theanine, both of which offer calming properties and increase the release of “feel good” serotonin in your dog’s body. In addition, some calming products for dogs contain a small amount of melatonin, which can help regulate and improve their sleep.

 

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8. Experiment with Using Your Own Scent & Sound to Calm Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier

In my experience, using your own scent and sound to help calm your dog is a powerful strategy in beating anxiety. I stumbled upon this one day with my own dog by accident.

Typically, if I left the home my dog would instantly enter a panic. But one day I needed to take a long phone call, and left my dog outside my bedroom door where I took the call. During the call, she calmly lied next to the door, where she could obviously smell and hear me. It occurred to me that I could possibly mimic this tactic while I wasn’t at home.

I recorded my voice on a CD player and then put it on loop. Then I placed a used t-shirt on the inside of the door where she could easily smell it underneath. To my surprise, I was able to leave the house for a short time. (I monitored her on a video camera). I slowly increased the length of time I left, and always found her calm and sincerely believing that I was just behind the door!

If you’d like to read the full story of how I cured my dog’s extreme separation anxiety, go here.

Another popular calming product is the heartbeat puppy toy. Traditionally, these have been used to help calm puppies who have recently left their litter. The plush toys come with a warming features as well as a simulated heartbeat. While originally intended for puppies, many dog owners have found they can effectively calm dogs of all ages. This popular model is available on Amazon. 

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Defeating your Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s anxiety is absolutely possible—though every dog’s path to calm will be unique. The tools and strategies above can help you get started, but sometimes our pups need an extra layer of support. That’s why at iHeartDogs, we trust gentle, vet-formulated supplements designed to ease stress without harsh medications.

For best results, you can pair the Cannanine Ultra-Premium Broad Spectrum hemp Oil with our Cannanine Bacon-Flavored hemp Calming Chews. Together, these two supplements deliver 10 active, naturally calming ingredients—including hemp, melatonin, and valerian root—to promote relaxation and support emotional balance. Whether it’s fireworks, separation stress, or everyday anxiety, this powerful duo can help your dog feel safe, secure, and comforted.

Related: Top Pet Insurance Plans for Staffordshire Bull Terriers 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Staffordshire Bull Terrier Anxiety

1. Why are Staffordshire Bull Terriers prone to anxiety?

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are highly affectionate and people-oriented dogs. Their strong attachment to their owners can make them more prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Lack of stimulation, changes in routine, or past trauma can also contribute to anxious behaviors.

2. What are the common signs of anxiety in a Staffordshire Bull Terrier?

Signs of anxiety may include destructive chewing, pacing, whining, excessive barking, restlessness, aggression, or withdrawal. Some Staffies may also show physical symptoms like panting, drooling, or trembling when stressed.

3. How can I calm my Staffordshire Bull Terrier during separation?

Gradual training, leaving comfort toys, and creating a calm environment can help. Providing exercise before you leave, using puzzle toys, or leaving background sounds like calming music can also reduce stress when your dog is alone.

4. Do Staffordshire Bull Terriers suffer from separation anxiety more than other breeds?

Yes, because Staffies are extremely loyal and affectionate, they are more prone to separation anxiety compared to independent breeds. They thrive best in homes where someone is around most of the day or where they have structured activities to keep them engaged.

5. Can exercise help reduce anxiety in Staffordshire Bull Terriers?

Yes, regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage anxiety. Long walks, runs, play sessions, and mentally stimulating games can burn excess energy and reduce stress, keeping your Staffy calm and balanced.

6. What role does training play in calming an anxious Staffordshire Bull Terrier?

Training provides structure and builds confidence in your dog. Positive reinforcement training helps redirect anxious energy into learning, while commands like “sit” or “stay” can give them focus and security during stressful situations.

7. Can diet affect my Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s anxiety?

Yes, a poor diet can lead to imbalances that worsen anxiety. High-quality dog food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can support brain and nervous system health, potentially reducing anxious behaviors.

8. Are calming supplements safe for Staffordshire Bull Terriers?

Most vet-approved calming supplements are safe for Staffies. Ingredients like chamomile, valerian root, and L-theanine can help ease anxiety naturally. Always consult with your vet before starting supplements.

9. How can I calm my Staffordshire Bull Terrier during loud noises?

Loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms are common anxiety triggers. Creating a safe space, using white noise, applying anxiety wraps, or offering distraction with toys and treats can help your Staffy feel more secure.

10. Can crate training help with Staffordshire Bull Terrier anxiety?

Yes, when done properly, crate training can give your dog a safe, den-like space to retreat to when stressed. It should always be associated with comfort and never used as punishment.

11. Do Staffordshire Bull Terriers need socialization to reduce anxiety?

Absolutely. Socialization helps your dog build confidence and reduces fear-based anxiety. Exposing your Staffy to different environments, people, and dogs in a controlled way can make them calmer and more adaptable.

12. Can Staffordshire Bull Terriers develop anxiety from their owners?

Yes, dogs often pick up on their owners’ stress and emotions. If you are tense, anxious, or upset, your Staffy may mirror those feelings. Staying calm and reassuring around your dog is key.

13. How do I know if my Staffy’s anxiety requires professional help?

If your dog shows persistent signs of stress such as aggression, extreme destruction, or self-harm, it may be time to consult a professional trainer or a veterinary behaviorist for tailored support.

14. Can Staffordshire Bull Terriers outgrow anxiety?

Some dogs may improve with age, training, and consistency, but others may always be prone to certain anxieties. With the right care, management, and environment, anxiety can often be reduced to manageable levels.

15. What are the best daily practices to prevent Staffordshire Bull Terrier anxiety?

Provide regular exercise, mental stimulation, consistent routines, positive training, and plenty of affection. Avoid long periods of isolation and always give your Staffy opportunities to interact, play, and bond with the family.

Helping Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier Find Calm

Anxiety can feel overwhelming, for both you and your Staffordshire Bull Terrier, but it doesn’t have to define your dog’s life. With patience, consistency, and the right tools, most Staffordshire Bull Terrier can overcome separation stress, noise phobias, or travel worries and return to their naturally happy, confident selves. Remember, every dog’s journey to calm will look different, so don’t be discouraged if progress feels slow. Even small steps forward are signs of healing. When combined with training and a loving routine, these solutions can make a world of difference in helping your Staffordshire Bull Terrier feel secure, relaxed, and ready to enjoy life by your side.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.