We’re living in a fast-paced world where continuous changes are happening in our lives to the point where we don’t even realise it anymore. During busy periods, we may not notice that our dogs are affected by change too.
Change can happen in various aspects of a pet’s life, and it can upset him or cause him stress and anxiety. Because your dog cannot verbally express how he is feeling, you need to know and recognise the signs that indicate that he is not coping well and, more importantly, how to support him.
Examples of change
Not everyone experiences change to the same degree. For some people, big changes in their lives are something important, like starting a new job, moving to a new house, bringing home a baby or perhaps getting a new pet. For others, starting a new diet could be a big change or moving to a new department within the same company may be distressing.
Now think about how small changes can upset a child – perhaps getting a new teacher or when routines change. For adults, these changes may seem small, but for a child, they are significant.
The same goes for our pets. Keep in mind that the average dog’s intelligence is equivalent to that of a two-year-old child. Situations like being introduced to a new food, a new routine or moving to a new house can be very upsetting for a dog. Even a new neighbour with an active dog or aeroplanes using a new flight path directly over your house can be disconcerting. Whenever anything changes in your dog’s life, keep a close watch on him to see if it causes him to react.
Physical signs
Here are a few signs that your dog may be struggling with stress and possibly not coping with a recent change. We provide some advice on how you can help him.
- Excessive panting Your dog may start to pant excessively, even if it isn’t a hot day. Try to keep him cool and calm. Provide plenty of water and ensure that he has access to a cool, shaded area. If he continues to pant, consult your vet.
- Shaking or trembling He may shake or tremble, especially if he is feeling anxious or scared, and you shouldn’t take this lightly. Comfort him and provide a secure and safe environment by eliminating the source of stress or fear, such as loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals.
- Dilated pupils When dogs are stressed, their pupils may dilate, making their eyes appear larger than normal. This is called ‘whale eye’ – when you can see the whites of your dog’s eyes. Dim the lights or take him out of bright light. Provide a quiet, calm environment. Again, try to eliminate the source of his discomfort.
- Excessive licking or chewing He may start to lick, bite or chew on parts of his body he can reach, especially his paws. Ensure your dog has plenty of toys and chew items available. Consider using calming supplements or pheromone sprays, but consult your vet first before using them. Be sure to check your dog’s body for any possible causes of the behaviour, as something on his skin or in his coat may be causing him discomfort.
- Loss of appetite He may stop eating or eat significantly less than usual when he is feeling stressed. Offer your dog small, frequent meals and ensure that he has access to clean, fresh water. If the loss of appetite persists, consult your veterinarian.
- Excessive shedding In periods of extreme stress (like a visit to the vet), stress hormones are released into the bloodstream, and this can cause excessive shedding. Brush your dog regularly to help remove excess hair from the coat. Also, consider providing supplements or a diet that supports a healthy skin and coat.
- Diarrhoea or vomiting Dogs may experience digestive issues when they are feeling stressed, which can result in diarrhoea or vomiting. If your dog is unwell, monitor him. Ensure that he has access to clean water, and consider offering bland food such as boiled chicken and rice until his stomach settles. If the diarrhoea or vomiting persists, consult with your veterinarian.
- Increased aggression or fearfulness Dogs may become more aggressive or fearful when they are stressed, especially if they feel threatened or cornered. Do not punish or scold your dog. Instead, provide a safe, secure environment, and consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviourist if this behaviour continues.
11 tips on how to manage stress and anxiety
- Create a safe and comfortable place for your dog, like a comfortable bed placed in a calm space with familiar toys.
- Always use positive reinforcement and reward desired behaviours with treats and plenty of praise and affection.
- Regular exercise is a must to release pent-up energy and keep your dog at a healthy weight. Exercise will improve your dog’s health and mood. Ask your vet for an ideal plan for your dog.
- Consider physical therapy such as massage, range-of-motion exercises and hydrotherapy.
- Ask your vet for safe and natural remedies such as essential oils, herbal supplements and calming pheromones.
- Mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys, interactive games and obedience training, can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of purpose for dogs.
- Consider using calming techniques, such as music therapy or aromatherapy, to help reduce stress levels in your dog.
- Practice patience and consistency with your dog. When it comes to positive reinforcement, exercise and mealtimes, allow him to get used to a routine, as this supports a healthy state of mind and mood.
- If you are dealing with separation anxiety, only leave for short periods initially and gradually increase the amount of time that you are away. You can also refrain from making arrivals and departures a ‘big deal’ by keeping your greetings and goodbyes brief.
- Socialisation with other dogs and animals can be helpful to relieve anxiety. Your dog should learn this skill at an early age.
- Seek professional help. If your dog’s separation anxiety is severe, you may need to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviourist.
