I think stress in our dogs is very much an overlooked symptom. There are many factors pointing to a stressed out pet and we as humans need to know what those signs are. We surely can recognize them in ourselves, how is it that we don’t see it in our dogs?
Our beloved dog can be stressed from interpersonal relationships within the household. They can be stressed from something as simple as boredom. Not adequate stimulation throughout their days can lead to that. As intelligent dogs they need to be stimulated mentally and physically each day. If there is not enough attention given to them or enough exercise given to them each day, they will suffer from stress.
- Stress symptoms in dogs can appear as immune system dysfunctions
- Yeast problems
- This will impact the adrenal glands and other organs
- Behavioral issues can arise
- Weakened animals will have the reduced ability to deal with any further stressful situations very well
It is important to look beneath the surface symptoms when dealing with stress in your dog. More than likely you will discover the reasons for their stress by observing their behavior. Signs of stress in a dog can appear as:
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lick granuloma
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constant gnawing on feet or forelimbs or hind limbs
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pica, or consuming nonfood objects
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skin irritations or eruptions
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behavioral issues from aggression to timidness or fearfulness
If yo truly want to help stressful situations in your dog’s life, follow some very basic guidelines. They are in the following:
- Provide really good food for them (high -quality ingredients, few chemicals)
- observe their environment that they live in (not enough room or not enough space daily)
- Monitor their exercise daily
- Avoid medication unless absolutely necessary
There are many herbal and homeopathic remedies that can be administered to our dogs for stress related illnesses. One of my favourites for stress is St. John’s Wort given in tincture form. Smaller dogs give 100mg twice a day, larger breeds give 200 to 400 mg twice to three times a day depending on their size.
Above all, keep a watch on your faithful companion and recognize what different dog symptoms are stress related. Both you and your companion will fair much better over the long run if we learn how to deal with stress physically and psychologically.
How are the ways you deal with stresses in your dog’s life? Share your comments below!