10 Common signs of stress in dogs.

Research shows that stress can affect a dog's health and longevity. According to one study: "There is evidence to suggest that the stress of living with a fear or anxiety disorder can have negative effects on health and lifespan in the domestic dog." An example: When your dog is under stress, his body releases an excessive amount of norepinephrine, the fight or flight hormone, which can alter gut bacteria and interfere with GI tract motility. Next thing you know, your dog has diarrhea, which just adds to his stress level (and yours), especially if he has an accident in the house. Some dogs primarily experience short-lived stress, but others deal with chronic stress. The more you know about what triggers your pet's stress, how he behaves when he feels stressed and what stress can do to his health, the better equipped you'll be to identify the signs and take action to minimize or eliminate stressors. According to the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) 2009 Manual of Canine and Feline Behavioural Medicine, there are 10 common signs of stress in dogs: 1. Nose/lip licking 2. Yawning 3. Panting 4. Reduced or absent appetite 5. Diarrhea 6. Tail lowered or tucked 7. Ears pulled or pinned back 8. Cowering/crouched body posture and/or hiding 9. Trembling/shaking 10. Increased vocalizations — whining, howling or barking more