Dogs experience stress in much the same way as humans do. They have their own set of stresses that uniquely define their reactions to depression, separation anxiety, loneliness, boredom, frustration, noise intolerance, fear of other animals or humans, fear of owner's anger, and uncertainties in new life situations such as new home, new family, or new family member.

Stray or uncared for dogs often have the stress of hunger, illness or injury, feeling lost, and fear of danger and unkind humans. Even after these stressors have been removed, the effects of this stress can stay for a long time.

Stress in dogs causes the release of adrenaline and other chemicals within the dog’s body that elevate blood sugar levels and blood pressure and increases the workload of the heart and lungs. As the body quickly funnels all energy toward the “fight or flight” response, blood vessels constrict and other systems, such as the digestive and the immune are inhibited. Levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, climb and may remain elevated for a long time, even after the stressors are removed.

There will be situations where your dog wants to express excitement and happiness through his body language. If your dog wants to share his excitement with you, certain manifestations may appear to be stress signals.

Abnormal behaviours may not mean stress every time. If you are observant, you will be able to sift through such behaviours and determine which are caused by stress.

Be on the lookout for “clusters” of stress signs such as barking, whining, digging, drooling, trembling and shaking, pacing, rapid panting, “submissive” urination, diarrhoea, vomiting, loss of appetite, destructive behaviour suck as chewing, unusual aggression, avoiding eye contact, keeping the tail between the legs and acting shy.

Unresolved stress can lead to behavioural problems and health problems as dog’s bodies are not equipped to handle the ‘fight or flight’ response in the long term

Dogs are much less prone to stress if they lead a happy life that includes plenty of exercise (one of the best stress busters), grooming, and of course fresh water and food.

There are lots of stress reducing remedies available to buy but keeping a calm environment, offering extra attention with maybe a gentle massage, providing chew toys and providing a safe den where he can retreat will all help reduce the stress levels in your dog. Recent studies even indicate that certain soothing music such as harp notes can help calm dogs and other animals.

Disclaimer: The above article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a veterinarian nor is the source to be used as a diagnostic tool as there may be various conditions that may resemble the descriptions provided.