Dog owners urged to check 4 signs that show if dogs are sad
A dog trainer has shared 4 key signs to be mindful of in pets (stock image) (Image: Getty)
A dog trainer has revealed the key signs that show if your dog is experiencing feelings of stress or unhappiness.
Bringing a dog into your home can be one of the most exciting and rewarding choices you can make – but it’s not easy. Dogs demand a great deal of care and attention – they’re a long-term commitment so choosing to get one shouldn’t be a hasty or impulsive decision.
Dogs are famous for their unwavering loyalty and seemingly easy-to-read indicators of their happiness and stress levels – but how well do we truly understand what our dogs are feeling? Many owners turn to social media in search of answers and insights into their pet’s behaviour, with countless TikTok videos outlining signs of stress in dogs.
In addition, experts have stepped in to highlight a number of behaviours that clearly indicate whether dogs are feeling stressed or unhappy.
Is your dog content?
Natural dog food firm Green Pantry collaborated with Philip Legood, a dog psychologist and trainer, to understand how best to communicate with our dogs and show them our affection.
Many people are eager to express their love by hugging their dog but it appears, not all dogs appreciate this gesture.
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Philip explained: “While cuddling our dogs offers us great comfort, the same can’t always be said the other way around. Some dogs can actually find hugs quite stressful.
“This is because the action of wrapping our arms around them and holding them tightly can feel quite overwhelming and threatening to some dogs, an especially important lesson to teach young children.
“Some of the many signs to look out for that indicate that your dog may not be enjoying hugs can include, stiff body posture, ears laying flat and back on the head, lip licking, grinning (lips pulled back) and a raised paw.”
On how to determine whether your dog is content, Philip added: “There are also some clear signs that show your dog is happy, including relaxed ‘floppy’ body posture, loose or wagging tail, ears hanging down or slightly forward, a soft face with an open mouth.”
Is your dog feeling stressed?
A dog’s stress levels are equally important to monitor. Dr Charlotte Rice, senior veterinary technical manager at YuMOVE, recommends using the P.E.E.P test to spot signs of stress in your pet.
The doctor said: “Despite their happy-go-lucky reputations, dogs can become stressed just like us. If you notice your dog acting up and suspect it could be because of nerves, don’t discipline them – but speak to your vet instead.
“If your pet is stressed, they won’t necessarily make it obvious. Don’t expect them to march off to the shed in a huff or slam the door and play loud music in their bedroom. Instead, you’ll need to pay attention to different, subtler signs to discover what’s going on.”
The PEEP test
P = Posture – Is your pet hunched, tense, cowering or defensive?
E = Eyes – Are their eyes wide, strained or pupils dilated?
E = Ears – Does it look like their ears are flattened or pinned back?
P = Position – Is your pet turning away, hiding or fleeing/freezing?
If you’re concerned about your dog’s behaviour, seek professional advice from a qualified vet as soon as possible.
