As pet owners, it’s important to recognise signs of stress in our dogs and provide them with the necessary support. Just like humans, dogs can experience stress, which can have detrimental effects on their overall well-being. 

Below, we’ll explore common triggers and signs of stress in dogs, decipher stressed dog body language cues and provide practical tips on how to calm a stressed dog. By being attentive to our fur babies’ needs and implementing stress relief strategies for dogs, we can create a harmonious and stress-free environment for them to thrive.

What causes stress in dogs?

Various factors can contribute to stress in dogs, including changes in routine, loud noises, separation anxiety, unfamiliar environments, social conflicts or past traumatic experiences. Understanding the signs of stress in dogs and providing appropriate stress relief measures to promote their well-being and ensure a calm and harmonious environment is essential.

Effects of stress on dogs 

Unchecked stress can have significant health implications for dogs. It can weaken their immune system, lead to digestive issues, exacerbate health conditions and cause behavioural problems. 

Now that we know the detrimental effects of unchecked stress on dogs, let’s delve into the key indicators to look out for. By recognising these five signs of stress in dogs, we can proactively address their needs and take appropriate steps to provide them with the necessary care and support.

5 signs of stress in dogs

Recognising a stressed dog’s body language cues is the first step towards providing them with the care they need.

Here are five common signs of stress in dogs to help you identify when your canine friend might need extra support:

1. Changes in body language — A stressed dog’s body language may include flattened ears, a tucked tail, lowered body posture, yawning, excessive panting and avoiding eye contact.
2. Aggressive or fearful behaviour — Stress can manifest as aggressive or fearful behaviour. Dogs may become more reactive, growl, snap or attempt to hide or escape from stressful situations.
3. Excessive barking or whining — Dogs may vocalise more frequently when stressed. They may bark or whine excessively to seek attention or to express their discomfort.
4. Destructive behaviour — Stress can lead to destructive behaviours such as chewing on furniture, digging or scratching excessively. These behaviours often serve as coping mechanisms for their anxiety.
5. Changes in eating or sleeping patterns — Stress can affect a dog’s appetite and sleep. They may lose interest in food or experience a decrease in appetite. Similarly, stress can disrupt their sleep patterns, leading to restlessness or excessive sleep.

How to calm a stressed dog 

Understanding the signs of stress in dogs and stressed dog body language cues is crucial, but equally important is knowing how to help them find relief. 

Here are some effective dog stress relief techniques that you can implement to create a calm, nurturing environment for your pup:

• Create a safe space — Provide a designated area to which your dog can retreat when feeling stressed. This space should be quiet, comfortable and filled with familiar scents and toys.
• Establish a routine — Dogs thrive on routine, so establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, exercise, playtime and rest. Predictability can help reduce stress and provide a sense of security.
• Use positive reinforcement — Reward calm and relaxed behaviour with treats, praise and affection. Positive reinforcement encourages dogs to associate calmness with positive experiences.
• Encourage physical and mental stimulation — Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential for a dog’s well-being. Engage them in activities like interactive toys, puzzle games and training exercises to help redirect their focus and reduce stress.
• Use massage and calming techniques — Massaging your dog can help release tension and promote relaxation. Also, playing soothing music or using aromatherapy with dog-safe essential oils can further induce calm.
• Provide a balanced diet — A balanced diet is vital in calming stressed dogs. Poor nutrition can contribute to poor health, increasing susceptibility to stress. Dogs need essential nutrients for physical and mental well-being. Choose MfM Australia’s high-quality, hypoallergenic dog food to support their resilience and promote a calmer disposition.
• Make time for socialisation — Proper socialisation can help dogs feel more confident and reduce stress. Gradually expose them to new environments, people and other animals in a controlled and positive manner.
• Avoid triggers — Identify and minimise triggers that cause stress in your dog’s environment. For example, if your dog becomes anxious during thunderstorms, create a safe space and play calming music to help them relax.
• Seek professional help — If your dog’s stress persists or worsens, consult a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer. They can assess the situation and provide expert guidance and advice.

Give your stressed dog some TLC with MfM Australia: quality pet food for a stress-free life

Recognising the signs of stress in dogs and knowing how to provide stress relief for dogs are crucial for their overall well-being. By understanding a stressed dog’s body language and implementing dog stress relief strategies such as creating a safe space, establishing routines and using positive reinforcement, we can support our furry friends through challenging times.

It’s also essential to complement these dog stress relief tactics with a balanced diet. And when it comes to providing the best nutrition for your pet, look no further than MfM Australia’s range of high-quality dog food options.

At MfM Australia, we are more than just your average pet food company. With 40 years of experience, our in-house nutrition and food science team is dedicated to crafting hypoallergenic, all-natural holistic diets that promote our beloved pets’ overall health and well-being. We source raw ingredients sustainably from Australian farmers, ensuring quality and supporting fair trade. 

Discover the difference with MfM Australia and browse our range of premium dog food, treats, puppy food and pet supplements today to give your dog the nourishment they need for a stress-free and healthy life. For any enquiries, please contact us.