A ZEN DOG IS A STRESS-FREE DOG
As previously outlined in the behavioural issues page, most problems reported by dog owners across Pembrokeshire are fundamentally rooted in stress. . . or canine anxiety. As humans, we all know how destructive the physical effects of stress can be, especially if the stressors remain unrecognised and unaddressed.
STRESS INDICATORS
The more familiar you are with your pet's normal behaviour, posture and responses, the better you will be at spotting the signs that are described below. Because these responses are inate, rather than learned, they apply equally to new puppies.
bonus content: a list of the most common signs of anxiety
PACING & SHAKING
Although dogs shake after a bath or a roll in the grass, a whole body tremor can be a reaction to stressful situations. For example, dogs that stress during a visit to the vet may 'shake it off' when they are lifted down from the exam table.
Dogs also pace when agitated, walking a repeated path around the exam room while waiting for the veterinarian to come in. . . (or the bath to finish running!), for example.
BARKING OR WHINING
Whilst vocalisation is a normal form of self-expression in dogs, especially with some breeds (see the Working Dogs section of the Breed Guide), this may intensify when they are under stress. . . dogs that are afraid or tense may vocalise to get your attention, or to self soothe.
YAWNING, LICKING, DROOLING & VOMITING
Just like humans, dogs yawn when they are tired or bored. . . but they also yawn when stressed! To help you spot the difference, a stress yawn tends to be more prolonged and intense than a 'sleepy' yawn.
Dogs may also lick and/or drool excessively when nervous and, in more extreme cases, this may extend to vomiting.
PANTING
Although they naturally pant when hot (because dogs can't sweat as a means of regulating body temperature), excessive or prolonged panting can also be an outward sign of excitement, anxiety. . . even pain!
BODY LANGUAGE
Standing posture: Dogs normally bear their weight evenly on all four legs. Be on the look out for a healthy dog, with no known orthopedic problems, shifting their weight to the rear legs, which is often indicative of stress.
A less recognised sign of anxiety, which is often mistaken for an expression of 'attention', is standing with one front paw raised.
Cowering: This expression of severe anxiety is intuitively recognised by humans, even non-dog owners. In its most extreme form it can present as 'withdrawal', which is typified by a lack of responsiveness and the animal may become quite rigid.
Tail: A dog's tail is probably their most apparent signalling device (we are all familiar with wagging), but may be tucked below their body as a defence mechanism when a dog is feeling stressed or threatened.
Eyes and ears: Stressed dogs, again just like stressed people, may have dilated pupils and blink rapidly. . . or open their eyes unusually wide to show more white (sclera), giving them a startled appearance. You may also notice a change in your dog's ear deportment, from relaxed or 'pert' to being pinned back against the head.
SHEDDING
This is a far more subtle sign of canine anxiety. It's very well known within showing circles that dogs who experience nervousness in the show ring will often be referred to as 'blowing their coat'.
Although less noticeable in other settings, such as visiting the vets or when exposed to unfamiliar environments, shedding increases when a dog is anxious.
PERSISTENT SCRATCHING
Once you have eliminated the presence of fleas, ticks, or an underlying skin infection, be aware that persistent scratching can also be a sign that your dog is experiencing stress.
CHANGES IN BODILY FUNCTIONS
Nervous dogs can feel a sudden urge to go to the bathroom. Refusal of food or loss of bowel control are also stress indicators.
AVOIDANCE OR 'DISPLACEMENT'
When faced with a stressful situation, dogs may sniff the ground, lick their genitals, or simply turn away. If your dog avoids interaction with other people or dogs, forcing the issue will worsen their anxiety and may even result in an aggressive response.
HIDE OR ESCAPE
An extension of avoidance behaviour, some tense dogs will move behind their owners for protection. . . and even nudge the owner as a prompt for them to move on! As a means of escape they may also pull back against the lead. It's very important that you listen to this signal because ignoring the situation can leave your dog no option but to exibit 'fear aggression'!