As Halloween, Bonfire Night, and the festive season draw closer, experts are urging dog owners to pay closer attention to their pets, especially when it comes to spotting early signs of stress. While many owners believe they can read their dog’s body language, the statistics suggest otherwise. A study from 2023 by The Kennel Club has warned that there is a ‘dangerous knowledge gap’ among dog owners, with a staggering nine in ten dog owners struggling to recognise some of the most crucial signs of anxiety in their pets.
Despite 72% of owners claiming they know when their dog is feeling fearful or happy, many subtle stress signals are often misread or completely overlooked. Protexin’s behaviouralist, Katie Sherratt, said there are five mild and overlooked telltale signs that a dog is feeling anxious or overwhelmed, and understanding these early signs is essential to preventing more serious behavioural problems down the line.
1. Lip-licking
One of the most commonly overlooked signs is lip-licking. While it might seem harmless, dogs often lick their lips when they are nervous or uncomfortable, especially in unfamiliar or overstimulating environments. The Kennel Club also found that 82% of dog owners weren’t aware this was a warning sign of anxiety or fear.
2. Overgrooming
Another behaviour that tends to fly under the radar is overgrooming. If a dog is excessively licking or chewing at its fur, and there’s no medical reason behind it, it could mean they’re trying to soothe themselves.
3. Avoiding eye contact
Avoiding eye contact is another subtle but important signal. When a dog turns its head away or avoids your gaze, it may not be being shy or disobedient it might be trying to defuse tension or express unease.
4. Yawning
Yawning is often mistaken for tiredness, but it can actually be a strong indicator of stress, especially if it happens a lot. Despite this, 88% of dog owners are unaware that yawning can be a sign of anxiety.
5. Avoiding an object/situation/area in the house
Some dogs may also begin to avoid specific areas in the home or steer clear of certain objects or people, which is another key indicator they’re feeling fearful or stressed. These behaviours may appear minor but can point to a bigger issue, especially if they persist or intensify.
Ms Sherratt explains that when a dog’s daily needs, such as interaction, play, chewing, or grooming aren’t fully met, they may start to develop undesirable behaviours.
This can also include things like chewing furniture, excessive barking, or becoming withdrawn. While some dogs may benefit from working with a qualified behaviourist, small changes to their daily routine can also make a significant difference.
Supporting gut health is one adjustment that can help ease anxiety in dogs. Ms Sherratt points to the gut-brain axis, the powerful connection between the digestive system and cognitive function as an often overlooked factor.
Stress, poor diet, and lack of exercise can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, which in turn can negatively impact mood and behaviour.
