8 Telltale Signs That Your Dog Is Suffering From Stress

Dogs can sometimes get stressed, just like we do. But unlike us, they can't talk about it or go for a drink to relax!

It's up to us then to learn to detect the signs of anxiety in our pets, and to monitor these symptoms. What's more, it's essential that we differentiate between "good stress" and bad. Agitation and overexcitement, often characterised by fidgeting around the ears and tail, should not be confused with genuine stress.

Here are some sure signs of stress:

1. Excessive panting

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It's very normal for a dog to pant when it's hot outside or duringexercise. But if this isn't the case, excessive panting may be a sign of stress, especially if his ears are drawnbackwards.

2. Licking the nose and ears

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If your dog is licking around his muzzle more often than usual, he is probably going through an extremely stressful period.

3. Excessive barking

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A dog that spends a lot of time barking for no apparent reason is an indication ofanxiety. Try to find out why he is barking to understand the source of his stress.

4. A nervous yawn

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When a dog is stressed, he will yawn much more frequently, with his ears usually drawn backwards.

5. Extreme hair loss 

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During stressful periods, dogs lose more hair. If your dog's hair comes out easily and in excessivequantities when you pet him, he could be suffering from stress.

6. Changes to his routine

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Just like humans, a stressed dog will often experience changes in his sleeping habits - maybe he is having trouble sleeping, or spending more time than usualsleeping - or eating habits. He may exhibit behaviour which is characteristic of bulimia or anorexia.He may alsobegin to neglect his hygiene.

7. Destructive behaviour

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This symptom indicates an unusually high level of stress. It may manifest itself in violence (even towards himself), destruction of objects, and the desire to chew on everything.

8. He is running from or avoiding a situation

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If your dog is turning away from a particular situation or avoiding somebody, somewhere or something, pay attention. Usually this kind of behaviour goes hand in hand with a lowered head or tail, and an avoidance of eye contact.In these kind of situations, do not force him into anything: let him get out ofthe situation which is stressing him out.

If your pet is showing one or more of these symptoms, pay careful attention to the source of his stress. If in doubt, it is advisable to ask your vet's opinion.