How to Tell if Your Dog is Stressed: 5 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Our dogs are part of the family, and just like us, they can experience stress in situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, travel, or changes in routine. Recognizing the signs of distress is the first step to helping them feel calm again. In this article, we share 5 common signs that your dog might be stressed and offer practical tips, including a natural supplement, to support their well-being.

1. Excessive Lip Licking or Yawning

Lip licking doesn’t always mean hunger, and yawning isn’t just a sign of tiredness. These behaviors can indicate emotional discomfort, such as separation anxiety or fear of loud noises. If you notice your dog repeating these actions in stressful situations, it could be a red flag.

2. Lowered Ears or Tucked Tail

A stressed dog communicates a lot through body language. Lowered ears, a tail tucked between the legs, or a crouched posture are signs of insecurity or fear, often in response to sudden noises or unfamiliar environments.

3. Avoiding Eye Contact

If your dog looks away or hides when you call them, they might feel overwhelmed. Unlike the loving gaze that strengthens your bond, avoiding eye contact can signal stress or discomfort in specific situations.

4. Destructive Behaviors

Chewing furniture, excessive barking, or digging holes in the garden are ways your dog might release anxiety. These behaviors are common in dogs left alone for long periods or exposed to sudden changes, like moving to a new home.

5. Restlessness or Lethargy

A stressed dog may seem hyperactive, unable to settle, or unusually lethargic, showing disinterest in play or walks. Both extremes indicate your four-legged friend is dealing with emotional distress.

How to Help Your Dog Relax

To support your dog, establish a consistent routine with regular walks and playtime to burn off energy. Provide a quiet corner at home, perhaps with a familiar blanket or toy, to make them feel secure. Activities like gentle massages or scent-based games (hiding treats around the house) can distract and soothe them.

A highly effective natural support is CARE CALM+, a complementary supplement designed for dogs and cats in stressful situations, such as fear or environmental changes. With ingredients like Reishi (200 mg), Lion’s Mane (200 mg), L-Theanine from green tea (100 mg), and Passionflower (100 mg), it helps reduce anxious behaviors like excessive barking or restlessness, promoting calm without sedation. It’s ideal for fireworks, travel, vet visits, or behavioral training programs.

Dosage for dogs:

• < 10 kg: ½ tablet per day
• 10–25 kg: 1 tablet per day
• 25–40 kg: 2 tablets per day

• 40 kg: 3 tablets per day Administer with food; dosage can be adjusted as needed.

Specifications: 60 g pack (30 tablets). Price: €78.01 VAT included; 5% discount on 2-pack (€74.10). Analytical Components: Crude protein 16.9%, crude fat 3.0%, crude fiber 5.4%, crude ash 32.8%.

If signs of stress persist, consult a veterinarian or behaviorist for personalized support. Observe your dog: which signs do you notice? Try one of these remedies and see the difference! 🐾