Stress in Dogs

Like humans, even dogs become stressed when faced with hard situations. Stress may be the reason behind some health complications in dogs. If not noticed early enough, it may cause severe psychological impacts to the dog. It may cause erratic and inappropriate behavior in dogs. As the dog owner, it becomes critical to learn everything concerning the popular contributory elements of stress in the canines.

Causes of stress in dogs

Separation

Dogs are very social animals as they happen to share a tight link with the owners; hence, the dogs may show erratic and abnormal behavior if they are left on their own. Such erratic behavior may be a sign of the separation anxiety. Abnormal behavior could include barking, defecating, urinating, chewing, or digging. If confined, such dog might attempt to escape from a confined region. That kind of behavior may even lead to self-injury. The condition affects the dog both physically and emotionally. The separation anxiety incidence is often common in dogs that have been rarely neglected or may be abandoned by the past owners. They may experience an instant onset of anxiety in case they go through a traumatic situation when the owner wasn't around. Bad treatment by the past trainers or owners may make them vulnerable too.

Introduction of another puppy to the house

This may also trigger feelings of being stressed, particularly in old dogs. Dogs often have territorial instincts. Introduction of a new dog may arouse stress particularly if the two dogs haven't interacted with one another accordingly.

Routine disruption

Dogs like to go out for a walk. Therefore, it's critical that their daily routine isn't interfered with. Canines don't adjust to changes very easily. Therefore, dog owners must consider the dog when they are relocating or arranging a trip. Absence of the owners or presence of some unfamiliar faces can lead to stress, probably because of boredom. They must play. Lack of exercise could cause stress. Stress levels can elevate if owners don't spend quality time with their dogs.

Other Causes

Dogs may develop anxiety in case they feel uncomfortable or pain because of illness or injury. Older dogs suffering from any illness might get more connected to the owner, as the dog's dependence on their owners go high at this time. They may become anxious if they are left alone. Abnormal behavior is one way of relieving their tension. Other contributing factors could be fear of very loud noises or some other kinds of phobia.

Symptoms

It is very critical to ascertain the stress triggers. The following are the common stress symptoms in dogs.

Abnormal Behavior Excessive whining or barking Panting Restlessness Trembling or Shivering Lethargy Destructive Behavior Sweating of paws Glazed eyes and furrowed brows Diarrhea Droopy body posture Persistent coat and skin problems.

What to do

A stressed dog needs a lot of love and care. Responsible dog owners must keep watch of the above mentioned signs and take appropriate measures in order to hinder stress in their dogs. The most effective way of treating stress in dogs is by using stress relievers.

This is where Adaptil Diffuser comes in handy. Relieve your dog from stress today.

As the the author of the popular online pet shop Vet Net Supplies, I have written this article to give awareness to pet owners about causes, symptoms & prevention of stress in dogs and how Adaptil Australia can help support dogs in a range of stressful situations.