Stress in dogs is actually very common, and can be caused by a lot of different factors. It is important to know how to recognize and treat these factors, as a stressed dog can be at risk for many larger health conditions.
If a dog is stressed, they will often experience diarrhea, constipation, or other digestive issues. Although these symptoms are not always the cause of stress, as diet can play a factor, they are important to watch out for, especially if the pet has never had a problem on their food before. If you notice any of these symptoms lasting for more than 24 hours, it is recommended to contact your veterinarian right away.
A sudden decrease in appetite can also indicate that a dog is stressed out. Dogs love to eat, and when they suddenly put their nose up to food, it’s a good sign that something is wrong. If a dog refuses to eat altogether, contact your veterinarian.
A stressed dog may also isolate themselves from their owners. If this is not something your dog normally does, and you are now seeing that they don’t want to be around anyone, there is a good chance they are suffering from anxiety and could benefit from a relaxation supplement to ease them.
Unwarranted aggression toward other animals or people can also be a major sign of stress. If a dog is showing fearful body posture and or facial expressions, submissive behavior, or even growling/biting, it is scared of the situation it’s in. This can be due to a lack of socialization in some cases, and a dog can usually be trained to become used to busy situations, although it is easier to socialize dogs as puppies.
In order to help your dog become less stressed during every day situations, it’s important to spend one on one time with them. Simply playing with them regularly can be a good way for them to get their minds stimulated and reduce any stress they may be feeling.
It is recommended to create a safe zone in your home if your dog is known to be anxious and or stressed. This could be a corner that has their bed and favorite blanket, or their crate, but make sure that they have their own area where they feel safe.
When it comes down to it, diet also plays an important part in a dog’s mental health and wellbeing. Eating well ensures that a dog’s brain is just as healthy as their body, as their health will be better balanced all around. If your dog is constantly anxious, it may be a good idea to consider switching to a slightly higher quality food, among all of the other things, to promote better overall health.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local pet store if you have questions on this or any pet related topic.