15 Signs Your Dog is Anxious

Dogs often mirror our emotions, wagging tails in joy or whimpering in distress. Like us, they can experience moments of anxiety. But dogs don’t talk, so how can we know what they are feeling? They can show us through their actions. Here are 15 signs your dog is stressed out.

New Eating Habits

Do you notice a sudden decrease or increase in your pup’s appetite or finicky behavior around food? Environmental changes, anxiety, or dental issues can all make your dog too nervous to eat. If left unaddressed, erratic eating habits can lead to weight loss, malnutrition, or obesity, impacting the dog’s health.

Excessive Panting

Provide access to water, ensure proper ventilation, and manage other anxiety triggers if you notice that your dog is panting, even in cool temperatures. It’s usually caused by fear but can also happen due to dehydration or underlying health issues such as heatstrokes.

Fur Loss

Most dogs naturally shed, but increased shedding beyond seasonal norms, bald patches, or thinning fur is worrying. It could indicate that your pooch is suffering from stress. Excessive shedding causes skin irritation, discomfort, and self-inflicted injuries from excessive scratching or licking.

Body Language

Dogs are sensitive creatures, and fear, past trauma, or any threat can alter their appearance. Symptoms such as a submissive posture, tense body language, or avoidance of eye contact can affect your pup’s overall well-being.

Too Much Licking or Chewing

Obsessive licking or chewing of paws or other body parts is a tell-tale sign your dog is distressed. They often lead to infection and wounds, which increase stress and discomfort. Provide mental stimulation through toys, and physical activity, address skin problems, and consult a veterinarian for proper treatment.

Increased Aggression

When you notice that your easygoing canine is suddenly snapping or biting, it’s probably uncomfortable. This is often the result of fear, anxiety, pain, or past traumatic experiences. Implement positive reinforcement training techniques to create a safe space for the dog and avoid triggers.

Withdrawal or Hiding

A dog that spends too much time alone can be overstimulated. You’ll notice that your furry friend avoids interacting with family members or other pets due to a disrupted routine, loud noise, or an illness. Don’t ignore these symptoms because prolonged withdrawal can lead to depression.

Increased Barking/Whining

Boredom, loneliness, and territorial behavior can manifest in unreasonable barking, whining, or howling. Unfortunately, persistent vocalization can disturb household peace, and nervousness will affect everyone. Lack of mental stimulation or separation anxiety are usually the culprits, so provide appropriate outlets for energy and consider behavioral training.

Destructive Tendencies

A dog that is stressed may chew or destroy things around the house. Pups might do this to get your attention or to cope with anxiety. Regular exercise, toys, or company can prevent this behavior.

Changes in Bathroom Habits

The minute you notice your pup’s bathroom habits aren’t the same, consult a vet because it can be a health issue. But indoor accidents, frequent urination or defecation, or reluctance to go outside to eliminate can also indicate that your dog is stressed due to routine disruption.

Excessive Pacing

Increased pacing is a sign of restlessness. As a responsible owner, you should take your pup on regular walks or engage in playtime, and establish a consistent routine to prevent extreme pacing.

Unexplained Lethargy or Hyperactivity

Is your dog not behaving like its old self? Uncharacteristic lethargy, reluctance to engage in activities, or hyperactive attitude beyond the dog’s usual energy level shows that your dog feels uneasy. It can also happen because of poor nutrition or lack of exercise.

New Sleep Patterns

Difficulty sleeping, restlessness, or dozing more than usual- all show that your dog is suffering from anxiety. Disrupted sleep patterns further stress you and your canine. Establishing a calming bedtime routine and a comfortable sleep environment will help your pooch.

Excessive Drooling

This isn’t just a cosmetic issue, as constant drooling, when not associated with food or excitement, shows your dog is anxious. It can also happen because of dental problems. Seek medical attention if drooling continues.

Seeking Reassurance

Some dogs are always glued to their owners. But when you notice your canine displaying excessive clinginess, you know something is wrong. Overdependence on reassurance is a symptom of feeling insecure because of past trauma or a new fear.