Stress occurs in our daily lives, so why should it not affect our dogs? Dogs are prone to stress, especially if they have had a history of mistreatment by others. Other causes of stress include inconsistent expectations from their owners or the specific breed of dog itself. Border Collies, Great Danes, and German Shepherds are examples of dogs that are more prone to neurotic or stressful tendencies.
Signs of Stress in Your Dog
There are definite signs to be recognized in your pet to detect stress. These symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Loss of weight or refusal to eat
- Shaking or shivering
- Restless or hyperactive behavior
- Destructive behavior
- Inability to focus on commands or perform learned behaviors
- Poor coat condition, diarrhea, constant itching
But what leads our pets to feel stressed? Changes in the home environment, physical pain, changes in pack hierarchy, confinement, separation, negative commands, aggressive owners or other aggressive animals, hunger, and the inability to relieve themselves when needed are all common causes of stress. These stressors often lead to learning and behavior problems in most animals.
In order to alleviate the stress your dog is under, it is important to assess where the stressor is coming from. Dogs are much less prone to stress when they lead happy lives, which include plenty of exercise, grooming, and, of course, fresh water and food. Loud noises or a disruptive lifestyle can aggravate a dog, so eliminating these types of agitating circumstances will greatly improve your dog’s attitude.
There are plenty of stress-reducing remedies available at local pet supply stores, as well as behavior modification classes and trainers that can help dogs with more deeply rooted issues. In these cases, it is best to consult a veterinarian. Dogs are very much like people and often need a little special attention in order to lead happy lives.
