Five Stress Signs For Dogs

If your dog is acting a little unusual, it’s usually not a cause for concern. Just like humans, dogs are also susceptible to being stressed. It occurs more often than you might think. Stress doesn’t just affect your dog’s mental health, it also affects his physical well-being. Here are five signs that might mean your dog is stressed. If your dog exhibits more than one of these signs, call your vet for help immediately.

1. Digestive Issues Such As Constipation, Vomiting, Or DiarrheaAnxiety, among others, is a leading cause of gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and constipation. Although these symptoms can also be caused by an intolerance to certain types of food, you should still let your veterinarian take a look at your pet if his gastrointestinal issues are unusually severe, last for more than 24 hours, and his stool is bloody.
2. IsolationDogs usually love to play and are usually up to no good with all the mischief they can get up to.  Just like humans, sometimes, a dog also needs some time to himself and this is totally normal. It only becomes a problem when he starts spending too much time alone. A dog that keeps isolating himself from people and other pets may have a stress or anxiety problem.
3. A Decrease In AppetiteWhen your pet stops eating all of a sudden, it is definitely an indication that something might be wrong. Dogs need food to grow and maintain their health. They don’t abruptly decide to start a diet or a fast like humans do. Dogs love routine and food is a big part of his regular routine.
4. Sleeping More Than NeededIf your dog is sleeping more than he usually does, or seems overly lethargic, this is a good indication of stress. Talk to your veterinarian to rule out other illnesses like liver and heart problems, diabetes, diarrhea, tumors, severe dehydration, anemia, hypothyroidism, and even poisoning among many other problems that lethargy can indicate. When a dog is traumatized, injured, or sick, lethargy is one of the first symptoms that he starts showing.
5. Increased Levels Of Aggressive EnergyJust like bullies at school, when a dog starts acting out, there is usually a reason behind it. He might be sick or overly stressed. Make sure you call your veterinarian for assistance before the problem progresses. To recognize the aggressive behavior, look for signs like overly submissive behavior, body posture portraying fear, and changes in facial expression.

• Exercise and play with him on a daily basis. Take him for calming walks.
• Create a safe environment where he doesn’t feel threatened.
• When going shopping for food, choose high-quality dog food. With great nutrition comes great physical and mental advantages.