What causes stress in dogs, how to recognize the signs and how to provide relief
You’re undoubtedly all too familiar with the ways in which you respond when under stress. You’ll probably be able to recognize when your closest friends or family members are experiencing anxiety, as well. But what are the telltale indicators of a stressed-out canine companion?
As their pet parent, you are your dog’s most powerful ally in the fight against stress, so it is critical that you understand how to recognize when they are upset and how to help them relax.
Learn everything you need to know about canine stress, including how to recognize it, identify it, and alleviate it.
5Stress in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors.
There are a variety of reasons why your dog may be stressed. According to the American Kennel Club, the three most common causes of anxiety in dogs are: separation anxiety, separation fear, and separation anxiety.
Confusion and memory loss are common side effects of growing older.
apprehension (of loud noises, new environments, large or strange objects and big groups of people)
Separation
Additionally, according to new research, your own mental well-being and stress levels may have an impact on your dog’s stress levels. Several studies, including one published in Scientific Reports, have found that “dogs, to a significant extent, replicate the stress level of their owners.”
Dogs can be stressed out by a variety of real-life situations.
The following are some of the more typical scenarios that might cause a dog to get stressed, as well as resources to assist you in guiding your dog through each of them.
Noises that are too loud:
Dogs have extremely sensitive hearing, which means that a loud noise to you will only be amplified in their ears.
Moving or rehoming a dog:
Moving residences, rehoming a dog following the death of a loved one, or even bringing a dog home for the first time after adoption can cause any dog to become apprehensive in unfamiliar surroundings.
What you may see as a dog behaving out (e.g., peeing or vomiting up in the house) may simply be a dog who is concerned about their new home.
