Having a puppy is a wonderful experience, but it also comes with its challenges – one of which is their stress levels.

Puppies are not different from humans in their ability to get stressed, and it is important that pet owners recognize the signs of stress in their furry friends. Here are some of the signs that our puppy may be stressed.

Change in appetite

Stress can cause changes in a puppy’s appetite. Some dogs may develop an increase or decrease in appetite, while others may lose the desire to eat altogether.

It is important to keep a watchful eye on your puppy’s eating habits in order to catch any early warning signs of stress.

Excessive panting and drooling

Panting and drooling are natural reactions in dogs when they are hot or thirsty. However, when excessive, they may be a sign that your puppy is stressed. Watch for prolonged panting and drooling even when they are not engaged in any physical activity.

Destructive behavior

Puppies can become destructive when they are feeling stressed. This may include destructive chewing and scratching of furniture and other household items, even when they have been properly trained.

This is their way of relieving stress, and it is important to identify the underlying cause.

Aggressiveness

When a puppy is feeling stressed, they may become more aggressive than usual. This can include growling, biting, and barking at people or other animals.

Aggressive behavior is a clear indication that your puppy is struggling with their emotions and needs help.

Excessive licking and grooming

Puppies can exhibit excessive licking, biting, and grooming behaviors when they are feeling anxious or stressed. This can cause bald spots, skin irritations, and even infections.

If you notice that your puppy is spending an excessive amount of time licking and grooming themselves, it may be a sign that they are struggling emotionally.

Whining and whimpering

Puppies may whine or whimper when they are feeling stressed. This can be due to separation anxiety or any other stressor that is causing them to feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

If your puppy is whining or whimpering excessively, they may need additional support and help to manage their stress levels.

Inability to settle

Puppies who are stressed may have difficulty settling down, even when they are tired. This may include pacing, restlessness, and an inability to relax in one spot.

This is a sign that your puppy is feeling emotionally overwhelmed and needs help to settle down.

Loss of house training

Stress can cause puppies to forget their house training, leading to accidents in the house. If your puppy has been house trained and suddenly starts having accidents, it may be a sign that they are struggling emotionally and need help.

Excessive shedding

Puppies may shed excessively when they are feeling stressed. This can cause thinning of their coat, and even bald spots if left unchecked.

If you notice that your puppy is shedding more than usual, it may be a sign that they are feeling overwhelmed emotionally.

Withdrawal and hiding

Puppies who are feeling stressed may withdraw from people, activities, and even other animals. They may hide in places where they feel safe, such as under the bed or in a closet.

If your puppy is avoiding social interactions or acting withdrawn, it may be a sign that they are struggling with their emotions.

Conclusion

Puppies are like small children – they get stressed and need their guardians to watch out for them. Recognizing the signs of stress in your puppy is key to helping them regain their well-being.

If you notice these signs or any other unusual behavior, it is important to consult with your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer who can help you develop a plan to support your puppy’s emotional well-being.