Can my dog sense my stress?
We all feel it, especially with the way our world seems to be struggling these days. Handling stress is something most of us have to face, and it can be very challenging. Recognising it is the first step in being proactive in looking after ourselves and our wellbeing.
Our dogs are extremely sensitive to our moods and state of mind. They watch us minutely and, together with their incredibly sensitive sense of smell, they can tell when we are not happy. They observe our posture, tone of voice, energy and state of mind. Not only do they see and recognise our feelings, but they effectively absorb the way we feel.
The next time you are having a bad day, try to take a deep breath, breathe out and then look at how your dog is behaving. Changes in your dog’s behaviour, particularly for the worse, could be a strong indication that you are feeling out of sorts or under tension. Your dog’s behaviour will often mirror your state of mind, especially if you have a close bond. For example, if you are irritable or distracted your dog may respond in kind.
Dogs are so sensitive that they may pick up on your stress before you’ve even recognised it yourself. They will know if you are over-stretched or are struggling from having had a bad day. They might respond by whining, playing up or barking and you may react with irritation. As if you don’t have enough to deal with! Stop and think though. Your dog could be anxious because of your stress.
Yes, you can use your dog’s mood to recognise your own state of mind but better still, use that realisation to help both you and your dog to return to equilibrium and calm, together.
Dogs thrive on routine. I don’t mean a daily timetable, but a flow of life with predictable, ordered activities and direction and love from someone they can rely on to be consistent and calm. Anger, chaos and irritability can cause stress for your dog.
Here are some signs that your dog may be feeling your stress.
Stomach upsets or vomiting after emotional events
Licking or scratching with no apparent cause
Lack of energy when nothing appears to have changed
Excessive barking, soiling inside the house. These can be linked to emotional upheaval.
Long term stress can lead to dogs suffering from stress colitis and other conditions.
If your dog suffers from any of these issues it may be nothing to do with your emotional balance, but keeping the possibility in mind will help you to maintain your dog’s mental health whilst recognising your own needs.
Try to be consistent and clear in the ways you communicate with your dog. Show them what you mean rather than repeating cues and potentially becoming irritated. Think about the timing of what you ask them to do, praise them often whenever they do something that pleases you, or they stop doing something you don’t like.
Do your best not to miss out walks, daily intellectual stimulation, play and affectionate moments together. Your dog will welcome whatever time you have for them but will be happier and more closely connected to you if they know what pleases you and what you expect of them.
