Like humans, dogs can also suffer periods of anxiety as a reaction to certain situations. The first step to help them overcome this problem is to recognize their symptoms, something quite simple if we consider that they are similar to those that affect us. In this post we summarize some of the most common.
1. Destructive behaviors. These animals try to calm their stress by biting and chewing everything they find around them. The most common is that they present this attitude when they are alone at home or in other situations that make them nervous.
2. Aggression. They can respond in this way to what they consider to be a threat, which in turn significantly raises their anxiety levels. If we notice that the dog is staring at us, keeping its body in tension and even pulling out its teeth, it is better that we stay away.
3. Compulsive habits. It is common when a dog is anxious that it licks its paws or nose continuously. He may also repeatedly scratch, bark, or jerk himself obsessively.
4. Loss of appetite or excessive hunger. These two extremes can be signs of strong anxiety on the part of our pet. Before the presentation of any of these two symptoms, the first thing we should do is go to the vet to rule out physical problems.
5. Hair loss. It is a classic consequence of stress. In the same way, we have to visit the veterinarian to examine the animal's skin and find out the origin of this disorder.
6. Fast and intense gasps. If the dog is panting continuously without previous physical exercise, it may be a sign of anxiety. We must be careful, as this attitude can precede an aggressive reaction.
7. Isolation. The animal may avoid our contact, even turning its back on us and hiding in a corner. Again, consulting with the specialist should be our first step.