An animal charity has issued a warning to pets to make sure they know the signs of stress among their four-legged friends.
To coincide with Mental Health Week over the past seven days, the Dogs Trust has emphasised the importance of looking after our dog’s mental wellbeing, reports the Daily Record.
So what signs and symptoms do you need to look out for? Here is what the experts want you to know.
In their Instagram caption, the charity said: “Whilst it’s very important to take care of our own mental health, it’s also important to look out for signs that your dog may be stressed. Gorgeous Dublin [pictured in their Instagram post] has some tips you can look out for! #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek.”
What are the three signs that my dog is stressed?
Signs your dog is stressed include:
- Lower body posture, tail tucked
- Ears back, tail lowered, paw lifted
- Yawning, leaning away
Dogs Trust warns: “If you’re concerned about your dog’s behaviour, then speak to your vet to rule out any medical problems that may be influencing their behaviour and ask about a referral to an accredited behaviourist.”
Dogs Trust adds: “If you’re concerned about your dog’s behaviour, then speak to your vet to rule out any medical problems that may be influencing their behaviour and ask about a referral to an accredited behaviourist.”
What are the signs that my dog is happy and relaxed?
Dogs that are calm, confident and relaxed will be interested in their surroundings as well as being responsive to their owners. They will also be able to settle, says Dogs Trust.
Positive signs to look out for that your dog is happy includes:
- Body free from tension
- Relaxed facial muscles
- Tail hangs and moves loosely, free from tension
- Ears are in a neutral position, or slightly forward
- Rounded eyes without the white showing
- Relaxed mouth which may be closed or held open – their tongue also might loll out which means it will droop or hang loosely
