15 Subtle Signs Your Dog Might Be Stressed

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Dogs, like humans, can experience stress, and while they can’t tell us with words, their behavior speaks volumes. Understanding these signs can help your dog stay happy and healthy. Here are 15 subtle indications that your furry friend is stressed and tips on how to help them relax.

Pacing or Shaking

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When your dog paces back and forth or shakes, it may not just be post-bath jitters. These behaviors can signal anxiety, especially in unfamiliar environments like a vet’s office. The constant movement is often their way of trying to cope with stress. Keep an eye on when this happens. If it’s during stressful situations, try to comfort or remove them from the source of stress. 

Excessive Barking or Whining

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Dogs naturally bark and whine, but when these behaviors become extreme, they often show distress. Pay attention to the context. If your dog starts whining or barking more than usual, especially in new or uncomfortable instances, they might be feeling overwhelmed. Try to identify and remove the stressor.

Yawning and Drooling

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Not all yawns are a sign of fatigue. Stress-induced yawns tend to be longer and more intense. Similarly, excessive drooling can be a red flag. These signs often go unnoticed but are crucial indicators of stress. Observe when your dog exhibits these behaviors. A calm environment and gentle reassurance can work wonders in these situations.

Rapid Blinking and Dilated Pupils

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Your dog’s eyes reveal a lot about their emotional state. Rapid blinking or dilated pupils are subtle signs of stress. You may also notice their eyes appear wider than usual. This startled look is a clear indication of anxiety. Approach them calmly in this position and try to create a soothing environment.

Altered Body Posture

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A dog’s stance can change dramatically when they’re stressed. Shifting weight to the rear legs, cowering, or a rigid posture are common indicators. Other signs, such as tail tucking, often accompany these changes. Pay close attention to these physical cues. Comforting your dog and providing a safe space alleviate their stress.

Increased Shedding

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Shedding could ramp up significantly when a dog is anxious. This might be more noticeable in certain settings, like at the vet or during car rides. The sudden flurry of fur isn’t just a seasonal change; it’s a stress response. Regular grooming and calming techniques manage this.

Excessive Panting

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Intense panting isn’t always about temperature regulation or post-exercise cooling. It could be stress-related if your dog starts panting heavily without apparent reason. This is especially true if other signs of anxiety accompany it. Offer water and a quiet place to rest. 

Changes in Bathroom Habits

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Stress can trigger sudden bathroom breaks. Your dog could urinate more frequently or have accidents indoors. This isn’t just inconvenient; it’s a clear sign they’re stressed. Understand the cause and address it to help you. 

Avoidance Behaviors

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If your dog suddenly becomes disinterested in social interactions or starts ignoring familiar people and pets, they might be stressed. The behavior is their way of coping with overwhelming situations. Respect their space and don’t force interactions. Give them time to adjust and approach when they’re ready.

Hiding or Seeking Cover

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Some dogs try to hide when they’re stressed. They might find refuge behind furniture, under tables, or even behind you. This behavior is their way of feeling safe. Come up with a designated safe spot in your home that can offer them comfort.

Over-Grooming

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While grooming is normal, doing it to the point of irritation or hair loss is not and could be a sign of stress. Watch for this behavior and try to distract them with play or a chew toy. Addressing the root cause of stress will also help.

Changes in Appetite

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A stressed dog may not be interested in food or, conversely, eat more than usual. Both changes in eating habits can indicate uneasiness. Monitor their eating patterns and consult a vet if they persist. For a quick solution, a calm feeding environment helps normalize their appetite.

Restlessness

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Constant movement or an inability to settle can signal stress. Your dog could seem on edge or unable to relax. Restlessness is often a sign that your dog is not comfortable. Creating a calm, quiet environment and establishing a routine helps your dog feel more secure.

Aggressive Behavior

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Stress can sometimes manifest as aggression. Your usually friendly dog might growl, snap, or show other signs of aggression. This isn’t typical behavior and indicates they’re feeling threatened or uncomfortable. Avoid punishment; instead, try to calm them and identify the stressor.

Destructive Behavior

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Chewing, digging, or other destructive actions could be a stress response. Although these behaviors are often seen as mischief, they can be signs of underlying uneasiness. Provide appropriate outlets for their energy, like toys and exercise.

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