Five Stressors for Dogs

We humans are extra stressed during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it's important to check in with our precious pooches. Our dogs can pick up on our stress which can amplify their every day stressors. Below are some common stressors for dogs we should all be aware of.

//1// Using multiple verbal cues to indicate the same behavior.

There are many ways to tell your dog to quit a behavior, such as barking. We often use "shh!", "stop!", and "quiet!" Dogs get confused when more than one word is assigned to the same behavior, and will continue that behavior out of confusion. It's best to come up with one specific word to apply to a command.

//2// Saying "it's okay" to calm a dog's anxiety.

When our dogs are anxious we often say "it's okay" to comfort them. Instead, we're actually training them to think the opposite. If we use this phrase in conjunction with something they don't like - thunderstorms, going to the vet - they learn to associate the phrase with things that aren't okay. Saying "it's okay" comes to mean something bad is about to happen and can make a dog even more anxious.

//3// Restraining a dog to give him affection.

Each dog has a different threshold, and most dogs do not understand hugs. A dog who does not like hugs may still love to snuggle. Snuggling is often on their terms and can feel less restrictive. Respect your pet's personal boundaries.

//4// Having a lack of rules and boundaries.

Dogs thrive on consistency and routine and find great comfort in it. Scolding a certain behavior one week and letting it slide the next can be very confusing for a pup. The next time the animal will not be able to anticipate the human's reaction to the behavior which can be really stressful. If your dog is not allowed on the couch, then he's not allowed on the couch.

//5// Making eye contact with a dog you don't know.

Dogs view loving gazes shared with their humans and being stared at by a stranger differently. Some dogs consider extended eye contact from a stranger to be a challenge which increases their stress response. Try to avoid eye contact when meeting a new dog and give him time to get to know you.