Holiday Stress for Your Dog
Stress and your dog…
The holiday season can be a source of stress for dogs due to changes in routine, increased activity, guests, and a lot of other stimuli. Remember your dog will show you signs of being stressed and it’s your job to listen to them just as you would any other family member.
Your dog has an emotional bucket (the threshold of things they are equipped to handle) and that can fill up quickly. Keep in mind that your dog is not part of your planning and thinking process, so all the new things that show up around the holidays can be very weird and increase their energy and anxiety.
Signs that your dog might be stressed during the holidays include:
Change in Appetite: A stressed dog might eat less or more than usual. Also, be aware if they got into any of the tasty holiday treats that are around the home.
Excessive Barking or Whining: Increased vocalization can be a sign of distress or discomfort.
Hiding or Seeking Solitude: Dogs may retreat to a quiet place to avoid the hustle and bustle. Give them their space! Especially those cute new puppies that need soooo much more sleep than we usually allow them to get.
Pacing or Restlessness: Constant movement or inability to settle down might indicate stress. Often your dog is overwhelmed and simply can’t make another decision. So they try to sit in all the spots, just hoping the noise, energy or distraction goes away so they can rest. A supervised tether or crate can help them know they are off duty and do not need to make another decision.
Panting and Drooling: Excessive panting or drooling can signal anxiety.
Excessive Scratching or Licking: Dogs may exhibit nervous behaviors like scratching or licking themselves excessively. Your dog may already have a habit of scratching or licking so pay extra close attention to your buddy during this time of novelty and newness.
Digestive Issues: Stress can lead to gastrointestinal problems, resulting in vomiting or diarrhea.
Changes in Body Language: Watch for changes in body posture, such as a tucked tail, flattened ears, or avoiding eye contact. Also, remember that tail wagging is NOT always a sign of being happy. Dogs do not naturally disengage from things that scare them so sometimes a stiff tail wag is telling something to go away, not come closer to play. If your dog is more excited than usual to get back into the house, or go onto the deck to escape, they are most likely telling you they don’t like the environment they were in and are seeking familiar comfort.
Excessive Shedding: Stress can sometimes cause dogs to shed more than usual.
To help reduce holiday stress for your dog, maintain their routine as much as possible, provide a quiet space for them to rest and retreat, limit exposure to unfamiliar guests or loud noises, and offer calming activities or toys. Additionally, a professional dog trainer can provide specific guidance tailored to your dog's needs during the holidays!
