We all know what stress looks like in people. A clenched jaw. Snappy replies. Too much coffee. But stress in dogs? That’s a whole different story, they can’t tell us they’re struggling, so we’ve got to notice the little things. Once you learn the signs of stress in dogs, it’s easier to spot when your furry friend isn’t feeling right.
Why Dogs Get Stressed
Dogs pick up on everything, your mood, the neighbour’s lawnmower, a new baby, even a change in your working hour, they don’t always understand what’s going on, but they feel it, and sense any change in your energy and just like us, that uncertainty can make them anxious.
It doesn’t mean they’re being “naughty.” Stress in dogs is just their way of saying, “Something’s off.” The trick is figuring out what’s behind it.
Signs Your Dog Might Be Stressed
Every dog’s personality is different, but some behaviours are classic warning signs. Here’s what to look for.
- Heavy Panting or Drooling
If your dog’s panting when it’s not hot or after only light activity, it might be stress, same goes for sudden drooling when food’s not involved. It’s their body reacting to tension.
- Restlessness
Can’t sit still? Pacing the room? Lying down only to pop back up a few seconds later? That jittery energy often points to worry.
- Trembling or Shaking
Sometimes it looks like they’re cold, but it’s nerves instead, you might see this before a vet visit or during fireworks.
- Hiding or Avoiding You
Some dogs withdraw when they’re overwhelmed, they might slink off under the bed or turn away when you reach for them. It’s not rejection, they’re just trying to cope.
- Upset Stomach or Loss of Appetite
Stress in dogs can play havoc with their digestion, if your dog skips meals, vomits, or has diarrhoea when nothing else seems wrong, stress might be the culprit, check with your vet to be sure.
- Chewing or Scratching Things
Chewed skirting boards, torn cushions, scratched doors, it’s not mischief, it’s anxiety. Many dogs do this when they’re alone and lack mental stimulation.
- Barking or Whining More Than Usual
If your dog’s suddenly vocal, pay attention to when it happens, barking as you leave or whining in new places can both be stress responses.
How to Calm a Stressed Dog
Once you’ve spotted the signs, there’s plenty you can do to help your dog feel more relaxed and safe.
Give Them a Calm Spot
Every dog needs a space that feels like theirs, maybe a crate with a soft blanket, or a quiet corner where no one bothers them, it helps them switch off from the chaos.
Keep Things Predictable
Dogs feel better when they know what’s coming. Try to keep walks, meals, and bedtime around the same times. That little bit of structure can work wonders.
Encourage Calm Behaviour
When your dog stays relaxed in tricky moments, reward it. A soft word, a pat, or a treat tells them they’re doing well. Don’t punish stress, it’ll only make things worse.
Keep Them Busy
Mental exercise helps burn off nervous energy. Use puzzle toys, hiding games, or teach a new trick. Even ten minutes of sniffing outside can help them unwind.
Try Calming Aids if Needed
Some dogs benefit from pheromone diffusers or calming supplements. Always check with your vet before trying anything new.
Reduce Triggers
If your dog’s scared of loud sounds, try gentle background music. For car anxiety, start with short trips and lots of praise. Go slowly, small wins matter.
When to Ask for Professional Help
If your dog’s stress feels constant, or if they’ve become aggressive or withdrawn, it’s time to get advice. A vet or behaviourist can rule out medical issues and create a plan that actually works for your dog.
Your Mood Matters Too
Here’s something people often forget: dogs mirror our emotions. If you’re stressed or upset, your dog will sense it. Taking a few minutes to breathe, slow down, or even sit quietly with them can make you both feel better.
Preventing Stress Long-Term
Early socialisation is a huge help, let puppies meet new people and experience different sounds, but always in a gentle way, for rescue dogs, go at their pace. Patience really does pay off.
Regular exercise, playtime, and calm handling help build confidence too, think of it as emotional fitness for dogs, the more positive experiences they have, the less likely they are to feel anxious later.
Final Thoughts
Not every sign of stress in dogs screams for attention, sometimes it’s just a subtle shift, they might eat slower, sleep more, or follow you from room to room. Trust your gut, you know your dog better than anyone.
Helping your dog manage stress isn’t complicated. It’s about paying attention, offering comfort, and giving them space when they need it.
At the end of the day, they just want to know you’ve got their back. When they feel safe, you’ll see it.