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Noticing small and subtle signs when it comes to our pets is important (Image: Getty)
Scores of pet parents around the world have probably found themselves wishing at some point or another that their pets could speak to them — to understand exactly what your dog is feeling or trying to convey. As pet owners, we always find ourselves trying to pick up on subtle signs or communication patterns to ensure our pets are healthy and feeling comfortable and happy.
Since our dogs cannot actually verbally communicate with us, we have to rely on other signs and factors to ensure they are healthy and not distressed. That’s where noticing small and subtle signs comes in. There are six subtle signs that can indicate your dog is feeling distressed, and pet owners need to watch out for them.
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These signs could indicate there’s something wrong beneath the surface (Image: Getty)
Helen Webb at pet supplement brand YuMOVE shares: “Dogs can’t tell us when they’re struggling, but they are constantly communicating through body language that we can miss or misread entirely.
“A dog licking its lips, yawning often or shaking off after a cuddle is often harmless, but sometimes these behaviours could be a sign of discomfort.”
So, what exactly are these signs?
6 subtle signs your dog is distressed
Eyes
An incredibly common gesture is when your dog keeps their head stiff but shifts their gaze sideways to expose the whites of their eyes. This means your pet is exhibiting a behaviour known as “whale eye”.
Helen shares: “Refusing to look away or to make eye contact is a reliable indicator of unease. When this is paired with squinting or rapid blinking, it could suggest emotional discomfort. Consistently furrowed brows could also point to anxiety rather than tiredness or hunger.”
Dogs are constantly communicating through body language (Image: Getty)
Ears
Should your dog’s ears remain persistently tense and demonstrate heightened alertness to their surroundings, this may indicate they are finding it difficult to unwind and could be suffering from anxiety or stress.
Mouth
According to Helen, lip licking, repeated yawning, and a tense, tight mouth are also strong indicators that underneath the surface, something could be wrong.
“If your dog is wrinkling their muzzle, it could also show that they are displaying fear or aggression.”
Posture and position
Helen said: “One of the most commonly misread signals is if your dog shakes off after engaging with you. Dogs physically shake their bodies to release stress or pent-up energy.
“Shaking can be paired with panting, intense staring or a frantic tail position to indicate stress or anxiety, while a tail tucked between the legs can signal fear.”
A rigid stance and stiff posture are further warning signs that something is amiss. Hair bristling along the back and neck can compound this, suggesting your dog feels compelled to remain tense or on high alert.
“Hiding behind furniture, cowering, or physically backing away can highlight your dog’s anxious disposition. On the opposite side, clinginess, shadowing and constant begging for attention can be just as clear an indicator of stress.”
Some common actions and gestures may have a deeper meaning (Image: Getty)
Whining, growling and barking
Helen said: “If your dog begins frequently whining, growling and barking, it’s important not to dismiss this simply as naughtiness or excitement, as all of these behaviours can point to genuine distress, especially if they feel sudden and out of character.”
Spotting these warning signs early truly makes a difference, as stress in dogs doesn’t merely impact their temperament; it can result in deteriorating behaviour and additional health complications.
Poor sleep
Dogs need 10 hours of daily rest. A peaceful, low-traffic sleeping area is essential to permit complete physical stretching so that your dog can progress from light “vigilant” rest into deep REM sleep that aids their memory processing and emotional regulation.
Helen explains: “If you find your dog is pacing, licking their lips, or seems restless often, they might be reaching their sensory limit. Give them a cosy, quiet spot with familiar toys or blankets to help them settle and rest. Sometimes all your pup needs is a good night’s sleep to get them back to feeling themselves.
“And of course, if you have any concerns about your pet’s health or stress levels, please speak to your vet.”
