Stress in dogs

Dogs can be stressed for many different reasons. Dogs exposed to stress for a long time can develop problem behaviors. Here you can read about signs of stress in your dog and how to help a stressed dog.

Signs that may indicate that your dog is stressed

Problem behaviours
Excessive licking or biting of paws
Excessive itching
Hard to relax
Hustling and drooling

Does your dog show any of the symptoms in the list? Keep in mind that it is important to see a veterinarian to rule out illness even if you think stress may be the cause.

Stress can manifest itself in many different ways

Dogs can get symptoms such as diarrhoea when stressed. Aggressive actions of various kinds can be signs of stress, such as the dog frantically licking itself, biting its paws or scratching excessively. The fact that a dog is staring, squeaking, unsure or aggressive can also be a sign that they are stressed.

Tips on how to prevent stress in your dog

There are several ways to reduce and prevent long-term stress, but start by reviewing the dog's everyday life. Here are some tips along the way:

Remove causes of stress

If your dog gets very stressed on special occasions, it is good if you can try to avoid these situations.

Exercise

Regardless of dog size or breed, exercise is an important ingredient for a dog's well-being. A dog that is allowed to stretch properly at regular intervals is less likely to misbehave and often functions better in everyday life

Activate your dog

Activating a dog is extremely important. In addition, it is through activation that you build a good relationship with your dog. Many people think that activation is only about the dog needing to move, i.e. exercise, but activation is also about brain gymnastics which is at least as important

Teach the dog to relax

By practicing passivity with your dog, you can teach the dog to relax and take it easy. This also makes it easier for you to take your dog with you to a café or to a friend's house.

Time and place for peace and quiet

A dog needs a quiet and comfortable place where it can go away and rest undisturbed.

Give the dog something to chew on

Chewing and licking can have a calming and de-stressing effect for the dog. Therefore, it can be a good idea to help the dog down by giving him a bone or something else to chew and lick.

Get the help of a trainer

Sometimes it can be difficult to help and train your dog on your own. It's a good idea to contact a trained dog trainer or dog psychologist who can guide and support.