Tips on Identifying Pet Stress: What You Need to Know

Your furry friends may seem to lead a perfect life, especially with all the love they receive from you. But did you know they can also experience stress?

Fear not! Nature Pet Store is here to help. We'll guide you through the signs of stress in dogs, exploring its causes and types. More importantly, we'll show you how to identify critical stress signals and provide effective methods to soothe your stressed dog.

Let's dive in, with the reassurance that solutions are at hand.

What Is Pet Stress And The Signs Your Pet May Be Stressed?

We often hear stories of dogs biting someone "out of nowhere." In reality, dogs rarely bite without giving some warning.

Dogs primarily communicate through body language, making it essential for us to understand their signals. Recognizing our dogs' unique ways of communicating can help alleviate their anxiety and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

There are several warning signs that may indicate your dog is stressed. These signs are also categorized as types of stress in dogs:

1. Growling: This is often not a sign of aggression but a warning that your dog is uncomfortable. Growling may indicate that your dog feels its space is being invaded, it's threatened, or in pain.
2. Whining or Barking: Stressed dogs often can't control their whining, as it's an instinctual response. This behavior signals to humans that something in the environment is causing them distress. Barking, similarly, may be an uncontrollable reaction to stress.
3. Body Language: There is extensive literature on dog body language, including "calming signals," a concept by Norwegian dog trainer Turid Rugaas. Rugaas noted that dogs use over 30 methods to avoid stress and self-soothe. These behaviors, such as showing whale eye (exposing the whites of their eyes), tucking ears, a tucked tail, raised hackles, lip-licking, yawning, and panting, are attempts by dogs to de-escalate a situation or signal that they are not a threat.
4. Avoiding Eye Contact: Dogs might also avoid eye contact or look away, especially in situations where they seem "guilty."

It's important to note that not all body language is indicative of stress. For example, some dogs may raise their hackles due to overstimulation or excitement, not necessarily stress or anxiety.

How To Look For Critical Signs Of Stress In A Dog

Behavioural reactions to fear, anxiety, or phobias may differ depending on the external source. If the triggers persist without treatment or resolution, dogs can naturally develop chronic stress. The most prevalent stress symptoms include: Yawning Panting Tail tucking Hunching over Lip or nose-licking Decreased appetite In cases of extreme stress, dogs resort to self-soothing techniques. They may engage in excessive fur licking to the point of bald spots or engage in compulsive licking of the floor, walls, and furniture. This behaviour may also extend to chewing. In severe instances of chronic stress, dogs may exhibit digging and property destruction.

What are dog anxiety symptoms?

Do you have a dog that feels worried or scared sometimes?

Can you recognize when your dog is anxious?

Anxiety is a common issue for many dogs. As a pet owner, it's essential to understand how to assist your dog with their anxiety so they can be happier and live a more peaceful life. Here are some signs of anxiety in dogs to look for:

Hiding. An anxious dog might hide in certain situations, like when they hear loud noises or someone new visits. However, this could also be related to pain or discomfort, so it's essential to understand the reason behind it.

Bathroom Accidents. Dogs who are usually well-trained might have accidents when they're anxious. For instance, if your dog has separation anxiety and is left alone, they might pee or poop inside due to their anxiety. In some cases, these accidents could indicate a health issue instead.

Destructive Behavior. Dogs may behave destructively when they're anxious, usually during situations that trigger their anxiety. For example, if your dog has separation anxiety, they might chew up things in the house when left alone.

Here’s to a Stress-Free Pup - How To Calm A Stressed Dog

Nature Pet Store proudly offers an exceptional Herbal Pet Calming collection, meticulously designed to help your cherished furry companions unwind during stressful times.

We understand that pets, much like humans, can experience anxiety in various situations: while traveling, visiting the groomer or vet, staying alone at home, or during noisy events such as fireworks.

Bid goodbye to pet anxiety and embrace a serene tranquility with our Pet Calming collection.

Introducing Arrowleaf Pet Be Calm, our holistic remedy specifically formulated for pets grappling with stress in high-intensity scenarios. This unique blend combines:

1. Ashwagandha: Known for its stress-reducing properties, this herb helps in moderating cortisol levels, beneficial for calming and balancing your pet's mood.
2. Valerian Root: A powerful natural sedative, it soothes pets' nerves and helps in reducing anxiety and restlessness.
3. Horsetail: Rich in antioxidants, it promotes healing and can aid in rejuvenating your pet's nervous system.
4. Black Cohosh: Often used for its relaxing effects, it helps in easing anxiety and nervous tension.
5. Lemon Balm: Known for its calming effects, it helps in alleviating stress and promoting a sense of well-being.
6. Passionflower: Helps in reducing stress and anxiety, promoting a peaceful state in pets.

This blend is ideal for providing relief during travel, grooming sessions, fireworks, and solitary moments.

Moreover, Nature Pet Store features Arrowleaf Pet Immuno Boost, a potent herbal mixture to bolster your pet's well-being. This blend includes:

1. Turmeric: With its anti-inflammatory properties, it supports joint health and overall well-being.
2. Dandelion: A rich source of vitamins and minerals, it aids in maintaining healthy skin and digestion.
3. Burdock Root: Known for its detoxifying properties, it helps in purifying your pet’s system.
4. Ashwagandha: (as mentioned above)
5. Ginger: Aids in digestion and alleviates nausea, perfect for pets with sensitive stomachs.
6. Slippery Elm: Soothes the digestive tract, helping pets with gastrointestinal issues.
7. Boswellia: Helps in reducing inflammation and improving mobility, particularly beneficial for older pets.

These holistic solutions can be your answer to the question, “How to calm a stressed dog at night?”

Equipped with knowledge about the signs of stress in pets and how to alleviate it, you’re now fully prepared to ensure your pet’s mental and physical well-being.