Everyone wants their dog to be as happy as possible – however, a series of vets recently revealed that there are a lot of things owners do that can stress their dogs without them even realizing it.
From staring at them to cuddling them too tightly, there are a lot of subtle interactions that may appear as endearing to you, but actually make your pup uncomfortable.
A group of animal experts discussed all the ways in which we can disturb our beloved pets insideAnd it sure was amazing.
While it may seem like showering your dogs with love is a positive thing, veterinarians caution against showing dogs too much attention.
A series of vets recently revealed that there are a lot of things owners do that can be stressing their dogs without them even realizing it (stock photo)
In addition, they highlighted the negative impact that wearing sunglasses or hats can have around a dog, as well as playing loud music, dressing them up, and changing their diet.
Here are all the things you probably didn’t realize could potentially make your dog uncomfortable.
Dress up your dog
While some owners like to dress them up in cute outfits, veterinarian Jessica Kirk cautioned against this.
Others like to dress their dogs in clothes to keep them warm or protect them from the weather, but she said that often leaves them more uncomfortable than it helps.
“Many dogs don’t like to wear clothes, because it can seem unnatural or restrictive to them,” she explained. “Even items like jackets and snow socks can make them uncomfortable.”
In particular, she said you should always avoid clothing that restricts their tails, prevents them from going to the bathroom, or might cause them to overheat.
While some owners like to dress their pets in cute outfits, vet Jessica Kirk explained that it can make them feel ‘restricted’ and ‘uncomfortable’ (Stock photo)
Wear sunglasses or hats around your pet
Veterinarian Gerardo Perez Camargo said wearing things like sunglasses or hats can also cause your pup to become stressed (Stock photo)
Plus, the things you wear can make your dog uncomfortable, according to Gerardo Perez Camargo, vice president of research and development at Freshpet.
He explained to Insider that wearing things like sunglasses or hats can stress your pup—because animals “rely on seeing people’s eyes to understand what they’re going to do and what they’re focusing their attention on.”
“Covering your face can make the dog unsure of what’s going on,” he added.
If you decide to wear sunglasses or hats around your pet, suggest praising him often to assure him that all is well.
Moving furniture in your home
According to veterinarian Mary Gardner, making major changes to your living space can leave your dog feeling miserable.
In particular, she explained that moving furniture would likely overwhelm them, so she suggested moving just one thing at a time.
Dogs use their memory and scent to get around the house. She said they usually make a map of the space in their heads.
“Moving furniture can cause them anxiety because they don’t know where things are.”
Staring at them for long periods of time
While it’s natural to want to look at your beloved pet a lot, another animal therapist, Sarah Ochoa, told the outlet that you should avoid too much eye contact with them.
She said that staring at your dog for long periods of time is not a good idea because they might think they have “done something wrong.”
Dogs do not like to be watched constantly. Even if you’re staring at them because they’re acting cute, your dog will likely think they’re doing something wrong,” she revealed.
While it’s natural to want to look at your beloved pet a lot, another animal doctor, Sarah Ochoa, said you should avoid making too much eye contact with them (Stock photo)
Hug your dog tightly
Everyone loves a good cuddle with their pup, however, Sarah said another thing that might stress them out is when an owner cuddles them too tight.
Dogs love to snuggle, but they don’t like being held too tightly. She explained that feeling like they can’t break free can be stressful for them.
When cuddling your dog, I suggested giving him a little wiggle room to avoid any negative feelings.
Petting your pup unexpectedly
Another no-no when it comes to touching your dog is petting them unexpectedly.
Canines, especially those who are losing their sight or hearing, Mary explained, might startle if they start rubbing them without warning.
She added, “Even the sweetest dog can hunt when someone unexpectedly pets him.”
Loud music playing
It’s no surprise that loud noises like fireworks can startle animals, but did you know that playing loud music can also scare your dog?
“Loud noises can be very irritating to dogs’ sensitive ears, causing many of them to feel jittery and uncomfortable,” said Jessica.
I suggested not playing your tunes too loudly while driving if your pet is in the car, and making sure your dog has a quiet place to go during a party at your house.
Give them new types of food
Just like some humans, dogs don’t necessarily like to try new things – so if you switch up their diet, it can stress them out.
Plus, changing the type of food you offer them without diluting it can upset their stomach and cause a reaction like itchy skin, so Jessica said to beware of that.
She added, “A dog who has an upset stomach or itchy skin due to a change in diet will definitely be a stressor from the inside out.”
“Switching foods or treats should be done gradually over a long period of time.”
Just like some humans, dogs don’t necessarily like to try new things – so if you switch up their diet, it can cause them to be stressed (stock photo)
smoking near them
Another thing that can negatively affect your dog’s mentality is smoking near him.
Dogs have a “very strong sense of smell,” Gerardo noted, so even if the smoke seems subtle to you, it can affect them greatly.
“What might be a mild smell to us becomes a much stronger and unpleasant sensation to them,” he said.
Prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke can have many health effects for dogs and humans, such as respiratory problems or even cancer.
Take your dog on a trip
It’s hard to be separated from your dog for long periods of time, and although the idea of bringing your pet on a trip sounds nice at first, it can actually create a great deal of stress for them.
“For many dogs, travel is stressful,” warns Jessica. They have to deal with new smells, new sights, and new environments. Just because you’re with them doesn’t mean your dog isn’t anxious.
If you decide to bring your dog with you, I suggested packing a load of his favorite toys and anything else that might make him more comfortable.
