How To Tell If Your Dog Is Stressed Out Right Now

Your dog may love the extra walks and playtime, but having people around more often can also stress him out.  If he startles easily and drools more these days, he may be dealing with some serious doggie anxiety.

Most pets seem to love going on extra walks and having people around, but if they're used to being home alone and suddenly they have a lot of noise and commotion to deal with all day long, that's a big life change.  And don't we know how stressful big life changes can be.

CNN Health said dogs that are feeling stressed might startle easily and jump at the slightest sound or movement. Some shake and shiver, drool or bark more than usual, and they could show a lack of appetite or energy.  If they're trying to self-soothe, they might yawn a lot or lick their lips.

I've noticed my mini Schnauzer, Benny, seems to reach for his happy toy a lot more lately, and that's a chew bone named Gary.  Why kids name dog toys I will never know, but Benny has been spending a lot of time with Gary lately, so apparently Gary is a calming influence and a coping mechanism when the family gets too loud and rambunctious even for him.

A steady routine can make dogs feel at ease.  Knowing what to expect and when will help them feel like all is right with the world.  Music also helps, so enable our skill on the Alexa app and both you and the dog can be soothed.

For the most part, I've noticed my pets are thrilled with the extra family bonding time, but when those healthy, constructive, and loud fights happen among siblings, the dogs slink away and wait for it to pass.  Sometimes Mama does that too.

Once the restrictions are lifted and we can get out and do more things, we can't forget about the pets.  If they go from lots of extra love and attention to ten hours per day of alone time, they'll be stressed on a whole new level.  If you're looking for a job, now may be the time to start that pet-sitting business.