Everyday Training: Dog Stress

There are times when I enjoy hiking with my dog, when it is just the two of us.  It's a de-stressing time for me, and he enjoys the full attention that I give him.  But sometimes I think that Jake would rather enjoy the woods with canines, as opposed to just me.  He can share smells, sights and sounds.  Some dogs are just like that. Some are not.

Did you know that some dogs just like to be left alone.  That's just part of their personality. To be put in a position where they get uncomfortable, they become stressed.  YES, dogs feel stress too. When they are made to do things they don't want to do, that is stressful. If they are used to a quiet household and all of a sudden there is a party with loud children, this is stressful.  Robin Bennett, Certified Pet Dog Trainer, author and founder of The Dog Gurus says that there are times that owners, in their zeal to do fun things with their canine companions, often miss the signs that their dog is not happy with the situation. This might include going to a new dog park, meeting new dogs, walking in a crowd or being around loud children.

At the beginning of every Pack to Basics dog socialization class, Certified Trainer and Dog Behavioralist Jenifer Freilich states that if your dog wants to go sit in the corner by himself, away from the rest of the pack, just leave him there.  That is how your deals with the stress of being around dogs that they don't know.  They need to find a safe space to relax.

The signs of stress can manifest through panting, jumping or hiding behind the owner, tail between the legs (which is a sign of fear - a form of stress), shaking or tension in the body.  As the owner, you should be able to tell, because your dog will act differently than when they are at home. The key is to PAY ATTENTION.

Think about how we humans are all different.  Not everyone is a vivacious socialite.  Some of us need alone time. Next time you want to take your dog to do something new, just take the time to watch him. He will tell you if he is uncomfortable.  Maybe ease him into the activity slowly. If you pay close attention, you will be able to visually see his body relax, if he decides that he can relax.

Your dog can only communicate through his actions. If he can't relax when introduced to the activity, maybe do something else that is fun other than what you planned. Maybe a game of fetch, or sitting by yourselves on a park bench, people watching. may be entertaining for you and your dog.

Through love and respect, you can develop a mutual language with your dog. Then training your dog becomes a joy!