6 signs that your dog is stressed and ways to help them out

Let’s accept it, whoever with two legs or four legs faces stress. As a human being, you can detect the stress in others. Or when you are stressed you know how to handle it. Or you can share with your fellow beings about the things that stress you about. But when it comes to dogs, they remain subdued but do give out body language to communicate that they are stressed out. As your pet parent or friend, you should know to understand what your dog is trying to tell you. When you learn and understand and then help them out, you reduce their anxiety and stress, thus preventing any untoward or potentially dangerous situation.

What are the possible signs that your dog is stressed?

• Growling- If you find your dog is growling that means, they are hurt or feeling threatened, or maybe someone is in their space. Though it is not a sign of your dog being aggressive it does mean that your dog is uncomfortable
• Whining or barking- Whining is more of an automatic response when your dog feels stressed. It is a sign for you that something in the environment is making your dog anxious.
• Body language- panting, yawning, lip-licking, raised hackles, your dog revealing the white of their eyes, tucked tail, tucked ears, looking away, or avoiding eye contact are signs that indicate that your dog is stressed
• Freezing- If you find yourself freezing or getting stiff, it means you are seeing something that is making them stressed. It is a warning sign that the dog is so stressed that they are unable to handle the situation and they can bite anytime
• Pacing- Pacing back and forth is a sign that they are stressed. Though not very serious because a dog usually does so during mealtimes or for short periods, In older dogs, it may be a sign of dementia and you must consult a veterinarian right away.

After knowing the Signs Your Dog is Stressed, you should work on it and also keep a lookout for the tell-tale signs of your dog’s behaviour. Try to give commands clearly, do not stare at them directly or by giving them unnecessary punishment. You should monitor your dog’s behaviour and try to find out what is stressing them. You can also take the help of a veterinary doctor, or any professional trainer to help your dog in the best possible way. Block off the area where the dog can eat in peace. Teach your family members, especially children how to give respect to the dog. You should pay attention to your dog’s body language so that you know when to help your best friend. Try working on behaviour modification. This helps your dog to change the emotional response that your pet might have to some situation or people. You need to be with your dog to help him or her to come out of it.

By learning and avoiding what is causing stress in your dog, ruling out any possible underlying illnesses, and taking your dog for professional help whenever required can help them minimise their stress. Also, with medication, their anxiety level can be minimised. Animals and babies have an uncanny sense to pick up on scents. So whenever you are around your pet, try to be calm and happy. Give out your positive vibes to them. Take them out for a walk, as it keeps them calmer.

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but with a little deviation, healthy food, and lots of activities one can overcome the stressful situation, and so it should be the way how you help your dog. After all, what are best friends for!