As a rule, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure
out your dog's emotions. From the
"I didn't mean to do it" look that suggests trouble to the
"dance of delight" when you come home from work; your dog lets you
know how it's feeling. But can you read
the signs of your dog's anxiety?
Just like humans, different breeds exhibit in different
ways. A more aggressive breed may take
out their troubles on you or your home.
Shy breeds may turn their stress inward,
and make themselves sick. We did some
research and came up with a few ways your pooch pal might demonstrate their
stress--and how you can help.
Accidents
These are one of the most easy-to-recognize signs of a
problem. Dogs who experience separation
anxiety, but have otherwise been house-trained, may backslide in their
training. A safe and secure area: crate, small room, etc., may help your dog
feel more secure.
Pinned-back ears
Different dogs, different types of ears. Whether they stand up, drop down or combine
the two, dogs will pull their ears back and low when stressed. Pinned-back ears--something's not right.
Panting
With no way to sweat, dogs generally pant to cool themselves
down. If your dog is panting for no apparent reason, possibly with pinned-back
ears, she may be stressing. Be careful if the dog suddenly stops panting
and closes his mouth; she may be so anxious she's read to bite.
Shedding
Almost every dog sheds a bit. But if you notice hair everywhere or bald
spots appearing on your pet, it may be a sign of stress. FYI--vets report a high level of shedding in
their exam rooms. Just like humans, dogs
can find a visit to the doctor a daunting experience.
Yawning
Again, just like we yawn when nervous, so does your
dog. Generally, it's a way to take in
additional oxygen that the body craves during anxious situations. The stress yawn is usually in conjunction
with other behaviors such as avoidance or pinned ears.
Avoidance
New surroundings, strangers, an additional animal in the
home--there are a host of reasons for your dog to demonstrate avoidance. A
tucked tail, turning away, heading out of the room are all signs of
discomfort. Respect the fact that he'd
rather leave the room than escalate to aggression, but try to determine the cause
of his concern.
Destructive behaviors
Dogs may try to ease tension by chewing or biting furniture,
you or themselves! This commonly occurs
when your pal is left alone or when threatened in the presence of other dogs.
Illness
Is your dog's illness actually a result of stress? Loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, skin
problems or allergies can all be signs of stress. If you and your vet can find
no obvious cause, anxiety may be the problem.
Barking
All that noise driving you nuts? Inside
or out, excessive barking can be a sign of tension. Is it separation
anxiety? A stranger at the door?
How to help
your dog
Just like our children, our dogs appreciate routine. Regular feeding times, walking the same
route, and a safe corner to call their own will provide a less stressful environment.
Develop rules: Dogs
experience less stress when they know what you want. Set your house rules and
be firm, yet gentle about them. Be
consistent--your dog wants to please you, but cannot possibly succeed if the
rules keep changing.
Avoid stressful situations: If you know, for example, that
your dog doesn't like mail delivery, place him in a different part of the house
when the postman comes by. If your dog
doesn't like to be left on his own, crate confinement may provide some comfort.
Exercise frequently: It's a great tension-reliever for your
dog. Keep it fun and mix it
up--repetitive games such as fetch can actually cause stress in some dogs.
Togetherness: Folding laundry? Washing the car? Bring your furry friend with you. She wants
your company.
Set clear boundaries.
Recognize the signs of your furry friend's stress. You and your dog will enjoy the benefits of a
less tense life.
***
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