We’ll guide you through recognizing signs of stress in your dog, offer professional tips for soothing them, and help your pet feel better. It’s natural to worry, but with the right approach, you can support your furry friend.
Dogs experience stress just like we do, but they can’t tell us in the same way. As a caring pet owner, you’ll notice when something’s off. We’re here to assist.
Prepare to jot down some notes for yourself and maybe your dog’s vet. Boost your empathy and patience because a stressed dog is a serious matter. We’re on a mission to help your dog return to those joyful, tail-wagging times.
What Causes Stress for Dogs?
Stress in dogs can arise from various sources, some beyond your control.
It’s challenging to understand that your dog is stressed or to pinpoint the stress’s source. You need to watch them closely and recognize the typical signs, behaviors, and mood shifts indicating stress.
You know your dog best. If you think a specific thing is affecting their behavior, you’re likely correct. Stay calm and tackle it as you would any problem: by finding practical solutions.
Let’s discuss what causes stress in dogs and how they react to their surroundings to better understand your pet.
Common Sources of Canine Stress Dogs commonly stress over:
- Routine changes
- New or lost family members or pets
- Storms
- Loud noises like fireworks or gunfire
- Other loud sounds, like loud music or construction
- Tense human situations: stress at home, arguments, lots of visitors, or social gatherings
- Moving
- Vet visits
- Car rides
Anxieties and Fears Can Cause A Lot of Stress for Dogs
Some dogs have specific fears, like a dread of thunderstorms. Knowing your dog’s stress triggers allows you to help them with gentle support, a safe place, and assurance.
A vet can offer a plan to treat your dog’s fears, helping them react more normally to what scares them.
How Can You Tell if Your Dog is Suffering from Stress?
Stress signs in dogs often look like normal behaviors but become more apparent or problematic under stress. Observing your dog’s usual and unusual behaviors is crucial to identifying and addressing issues.
Signs of Canine Stress
- Pacing
- Shaking
- Excessive whining or barking
- Yawning
- Drooling and licking
- Shedding
- Chewing their skin or hair
- Not eating or eating less
- Changes in bathroom habits or digestive issues
- Avoiding or hiding
- Growling or other sounds
- Tucked ears and tail
- Raised hackles
- Stiffening or freezing
- Sleeping too much or trouble sleeping
- Aggression
Critical Signs of Stress in a Dog
How can you tell when it’s severe? Like humans, dogs can have health issues from too much stress.
Serious stress signs include:
- Not eating
- Continuous digestive problems
- Self-harm (like excessive chewing)
- Biting people
- Uncontrollable shaking and hiding
- Chewing and ingesting dangerous items
If your dog’s stress seems to affect their health severely, it’s time for a vet visit. There might be underlying health issues, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
How to Help a Stressed Dog
Calming techniques can make your dog feel safer and more relaxed. Spending quiet time together can help, as can these strategies:
- Talk softly and reassure them. Your dog senses your stress and tone.
- Remove stressors if possible.
- Keep things quiet.
- Exercise helps relieve tension and boost mood-enhancing hormones.
- Offer comfort with cuddles, back rubs, and time together.
- Introduce new family members or pets slowly.
- Engage in play to reduce stress hormones and distract them from worries.
- Teach kids the right way to interact with your dog.
- Create a quiet space with comforting items like their favorite blanket or a shirt with your scent.
- Feed them quality food and fresh water.
- Chew treats can also help them relax.
- Limit visitors when your dog is stressed.
- Allow them time to adapt to new environments before hosting events.
CBD Oil Products May Help
CBD oil is gaining popularity among pet owners for promoting happiness and wellness in dogs. Various forms are available to suit your dog’s preferences and provide calming support. Options include daily CBD drops for their food, chewable treats, and even CBD-infused peanut butter.
If stress has affected your dog’s skin, CBD Cream might soothe their discomfort.
When Your Dog is Stressed, It’s Time to Take Action
Your dog’s behavior and body language can indicate stress. Pay attention and provide comfort, security, and coping methods. If you notice signs of stress, act to help them. Severe signs may require a vet’s attention.
Your instincts matter in caring for your pet. If you think something’s wrong, address their needs. Remember, a happy dog means a happy you.