Abstract Research on the mechanical properties of transverse constraint force of anchor support under different loads can help to improve work safety. In this paper, based on the higher-order shear deformation theory, the higher-order whole-local theory of anchor rods is established with full consideration of the transverse normal strain. The geometric and physical equations in the intrinsic relationship are given for the wet thermodynamic behavior of anchor rods’ transverse restraining force. The equilibrium equations of the whole-local are constructed by combining them with the principle of virtual displacement. The analytical solution of the anchor core material was calculated by applying Navier’s method. The boundary displacement conditions of the anchor core material were solved. The anchor core material was modeled by combining it with ABAQUS finite element software. The mechanical analysis was carried out from the two perspectives of the buckling problem under thermal load and the parameter change of the transverse restraining force, respectively. It was found that when the thickness of the anchor bar increased from 20 mm to 50 mm, the radial displacement of the upper layer decreased by 52.95%, and there was no significant change in the positive stress at the upper and lower interfaces. The peak value of the upper interface shear stress decreases significantly from 0.55MPa to −1.41MPa when the anchor laying method is changed from a single layer to four layers. The combination of higher-order theory with ABAQUS software can effectively analyze the change of transverse constraint force of the anchor support, which can help improve its safety.