Dog stress warning signs: 20 red flags every pet parent must know

Did you know that dogs feel stress just like people do? It’s true, and if you recognize dog stress warning signs, you can get your dog the help she needs to feel better.

Your dog is sensitive and has feelings and needs, and when things start to go badly for her, make her afraid, or worry her, she can begin to experience dog stress.

Stress or anxiety — especially separation anxiety — leads to health problems and can contribute to early death.

So, watch for the following dog stress signs and take action immediately, including using training or dog CBD oil to help ease your dog’s stress.

Hair loss

It’s normal for dogs to lose hair; after all, you clean up what they shed daily.

And some dogs lose even more hair as they age.

But severe hair loss, especially in younger dogs, is a warning sign that something is wrong.

Look for excess hair in your dog’s sleeping areas, as it may not always be evident on the dog herself.

Watch for missing or thinning hair, which can be a sign of dog stress.

Diarrhea

When people become stressed, they can experience intestinal problems like diarrhea, which can happen to dogs.

Of course, dog diarrhea can occur for all sorts of reasons, but if it persists for more than a few days, then that is cause for concern, and you should talk with your veterinarian about the issue.

Diarrhea is not your dog’s only intestinal issue due to stress.

Your dog can also suffer from constipation and various other digestive problems. Diarrhea tends to be the most obvious.

Staying away

If your dog seems to be keeping to herself recently and spending less time with you or the other animals in your home, that should be cause for concern.

Your dog may show signs of isolation, which could be due to stress.

Dogs suffering from anxiety and fear will not want to stay around other creatures for long, so being isolated can make them feel safer and less stressed out.

Pay attention to your dog and these signs, as you may miss them unless you look closely.

Excessive sleeping

How much sleep is too much sleep for your dog? If your dog sleeps more than usual, you may want to consider whether she’s under stress.

Dogs that feel constantly stressed will be mentally tired, at least. They will compensate by sleeping more to deal with the situation.

Watch for changes in your dog’s sleep patterns; if she’s oversleeping or taking frequent naps, it could indicate she is feeling stressed.

Unwarranted aggression

Always be aware of any significant behavior changes. If your dog is suddenly aggressive toward strangers, other animals, and even people and animals that she is familiar with, that’s a dog stress warning sign.

Stressed dogs tend to become protective and defensive.

They may think that everyone is against them, so they believe it is normal to be aggressive.

You’ll know this happens if your dog pairs aggression with submissive and fearful body language.

Your dog may be aggressive one moment, then whimper the next, and look ashamed of her behavior.

Curled lips

If there is a constant gap in your dog’s lips, that can indicate that she harbors aggression under the surface.

This facial expression indicates that your dog feels aggrieved and is ready to bite; pay close attention to how your dog looks and behaves.

You may be able to catch stress symptoms early, before they cause lasting damage.

Excessive panting

Excessive panting is another indicator of dog stress.

Of course, it can also mean your dog is tired, but something is wrong if it is panting a lot even when she has not exerted herself.

Look at how much your dog pants, and if she seems to be panting for no reason.

Vocalizations

Excessive vocalizations, such as whining, barking, or growling, can be clear indicators of a dog experiencing stress.

These sounds often help the dog express unease or discomfort, making it essential for caregivers to pay attention to their pup’s vocal cues.

If a normally quiet dog suddenly begins to whine or bark persistently, or if their growling seems to intensify, it may signal that something in their environment is troubling them and warrants investigation and attention.

Restlessness

Restlessness is another prominent sign of stress in dogs.

When a dog exhibits behaviors such as pacing, difficulty settling down, or constant movement, it often indicates that they are feeling restless and unable to relax.

This behavior may arise from anxiety or discomfort caused by various factors, such as changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, or stressful stimuli.

Observing a dog’s restlessness can prompt owners to provide a calming space or distraction to help ease their pet’s discomfort.

Changes in eating and drinking

A noticeable change in a dog’s eating and drinking habits can be a significant indicator of stress.

Dogs may refuse treats or food altogether, or they may exhibit a decreased appetite when they are feeling anxious.

This loss of interest in food or loss of appetite could stem from a variety of causes, including environmental factors, emotional distress, or underlying health issues.

Paying attention to these changes is crucial, as they can impact the dog’s overall health and well-being.

Repetitive actions

Repetitive or compulsive behaviors, such as excessive licking of their skin or fur and tail-chasing, can signal that a dog is stressed.

These actions often arise as coping mechanisms when dogs feel overwhelmed or anxious.
Such repetitive behaviors can provide temporary relief but may also lead to skin irritations or further anxiety.

Recognizing these patterns can be a vital step in addressing the underlying stressors affecting the dog’s mental health.

Destructive behavior

Destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture, doors, or crates, can be a manifestation of a dog’s stress.

When dogs are overwhelmed, they may resort to destructive behavior to relieve anxiety or entertain themselves.

This behavior not only damages household items but may also indicate that the dog is in distress and needs more appropriate outlets for their energy or anxiety, such as exercise, training, or mental stimulation.

Tucked tail

A low or tucked tail is a classic sign of fear or stress in dogs.

When a dog tucks its tail between its legs, it reflects submissiveness, discomfort, or anxiety.

This posture can occur in response to perceived threats, loud noises, or unfamiliar environments.

Understanding this body language can help dog owners recognize when their pets are feeling stressed, allowing them to provide comfort and reassurance.

Pinned or flattened ears

Ears that are pulled back against a dog’s head often indicate anxiety or uncertainty.

This body language usually accompanies other signs of stress, such as a tucked tail or avoidance behavior.

When you notice your dog’s ears flattening, it’s essential to observe their surroundings and the situation at hand to determine if they need help or reassurance in a stressful environment.

“Whale eye”

The term “whale eye” refers to the appearance of the whites of a dog’s eyes when their pupils shift to the side.

This expression often indicates anxiety or discomfort, suggesting that a dog feels threatened or cornered.

It can serve as a warning sign that the dog is not comfortable, highlighting the need for their space or a way to alleviate their stress.

Excessive yawning

Yawning when not tired is frequently a sign of stress in dogs.

This behavior may occur in various situations, such as during vet visits, encounters with unfamiliar people, or in chaotic environments.

Dogs may yawn to calm themselves and signal to others that they are feeling overwhelmed.

Recognizing excessive yawning can help owners identify stress triggers and create a more soothing atmosphere for their pets.

Lip licking

Frequent lip licking or nose licking without an actual hunger signal can indicate stress in dogs.

When a dog exhibits this behavior, it may be an attempt to self-soothe or relieve anxiety.

It can also indicate discomfort or nervousness when the dog feels out of control.

Being aware of this behavior helps dog owners better understand their pet’s emotional state and address any underlying stressors.

Stiff body

A dog exhibiting a stiff or rigid body posture, sometimes described as “freezing,” may be experiencing tension or stress.

This response often occurs when the dog feels threatened or anxious, as their body language indicates a desire to assess the environment or prepare to react.

Observing changes in body posture and dog body language can provide vital clues about the dog’s emotional state, helping owners create a calmer environment.

Raised hackles

Raised hackles, or the hair along a dog’s back standing up, can indicate that a dog is feeling stressed, threatened, or defensive.

This reaction often occurs when a dog perceives danger or feels the need to assert itself.

Understanding this body language is essential for dog owners, as it can signal the need to remove the dog from a stressful environment or to address any potential threats they may feel.

Excessive shedding

Stressed dogs may experience excessive shedding, which can be another sign of anxiety or discomfort.

Changes in their emotional well-being may lead to increased fur loss, perhaps due to a surge of cortisol released during stressful situations.

Being aware of this behavior enables pet owners to assess and manage their dog’s stressors, creating a more supportive and calming environment for their dog.

Use training to reduce dog stress

Using training to ease your dog’s stress can create a sense of security and confidence.
Here are some effective strategies:

Establish consistency: A regular training schedule helps dogs understand expectations, reducing anxiety.

Positive reinforcement: Rewarding good behavior with treats or praise builds confidence and strengthens your bond.

Basic commands: Teaching commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” can manage behavior and provide reassurance in stressful situations.

Desensitization: Gradually expose your dog to stressors (like loud noises) and reward calm behavior to help them learn to cope.

Relaxation techniques: Teach your dog to settle on a mat or use calming cues to help them manage stress, and provide a quiet space for retreat.

Mental stimulation: Engage your dog with puzzle toys or advanced training exercises to reduce stress and expend energy.

Socialization: Gradually introduce your dog to new environments and people through controlled training to help them become more adaptable.

Use CBD to ease dog stress

CBD oil is a natural remedy that can help ease stress in dogs.

Here are some benefits:

Anxiety reduction: CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, helping to lower anxiety levels and promote relaxation.

Noise sensitivity: It can calm dogs during stressful events like thunderstorms or fireworks, making them more comfortable.

Improved sleep: CBD may enhance sleep quality, allowing stressed dogs to rest better and wake up feeling refreshed.

Pain relief: By alleviating pain, CBD helps reduce stress caused by discomfort, enabling better relaxation.

Natural option: As a natural supplement, CBD is generally well-tolerated and can be a safer alternative to medications.

Adjustable dosage: CBD oil allows for precise dosing tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing CBD oil to ensure it’s right for your dog.

Final thoughts on dog stress warning signs

If your dog shows unexplained signs of chronic stress, you will want to take her to the vet immediately.

The sooner you inform your veterinarian, the sooner your dog can get help, and the sooner you can figure out how to reduce or remove the stress from her life and improve her mental health.

Your dog may not show as unmistakable signs of stress as a human would in the same situation, but if you know what to look for, you can address anxiety in dogs.

Examine your dog if you notice any strange behavior, and as soon as you suspect something is wrong, let your veterinarian know so you can address any medical conditions.

If your dog is experiencing stress, consider using the Calmz Anxiety Relief System for Dogs, which uses a proven combination of vibration and acoustic therapy to reduce anxiety. You can also give him calming treats.

David Anderson is the content editor at pupjunkies.com, a website dedicated to helping dog guardians love their pups better.