07/11/2025
**Spotting Stress Signs in Dogs & Why Socialization Matters**
We can’t stress this enough… slow down, and if need be take a step back! Piper was socialized to her previous environment, but it was a lot quieter than in the city. So over the last 5 months we have been slowly introducing her to different sounds and places. Even though we have been to this Canadian Tire a lot, every time we go she learns new things. She is stressed. So we don’t stay long, and we let her sniff and learn. And then she goes home and sleeps. Tomorrow she will have a day to rest and be and take in her normal routine. It’s important to take our time, so we don’t flood her with information and create an anxious dog!
Did you know that even the most confident dogs can feel overwhelmed in new environments or situations? Recognizing stress signals early helps us support our pups and make training a positive experience for everyone. Common signs of stress in dogs include:
- Yawning or lip licking (when not tired or hungry)
- Pacing or restlessness
- Tucked tail or pinned-back ears
- Excessive shedding or panting
- Avoiding eye contact or hiding
Socialization is key! Gradually introducing your dog to new sights, sounds, people, and other animals builds their confidence and helps them handle stressful situations calmly. In our classes, we always watch for stress cues and adjust the pace so every dog feels safe and supported.
Remember: If your dog shows signs of stress, take a step back. Practice settling techniques, offer reassurance, and allow them to observe from a comfortable distance before trying again.
Let’s set our dogs up for success—one positive experience at a time! 🐾
𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘗𝘦𝘵𝘴. 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘗𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯. ♡ ᴛʀᴀɪɴɪɴɢ ꜱᴇʀᴠɪᴄᴇ ᴅᴏɢꜱ, ᴏʙᴇᴅɪᴇɴᴄᴇ & ꜱᴏ ᴍᴜᴄʜ ᴍᴏʀᴇ! 𝔹𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕤𝕙 ℂ𝕠𝕝𝕦𝕞𝕓𝕚𝕒 & ℕ𝕠𝕧𝕒 𝕊𝕔𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕒 🌊🌲🌸
