Learn to recognize the signs of canine anxiety so that you can help your beloved Husky feel more comfortable in any situations.

Did you know that a stressed dog can be withdrawn, his ears down, refusing to move toward you, even cowering? And since stress can lead to worsening behavioral problems and/or medical issues, it’s essential to speak with your veterinarian, a fear-free trainer or a behaviorist before his anxiety worsens.

Please consider then, the following list of behaviors (even a few of them are clear warning signs) that indicate your Husky is suffering from stress:

• Barking

• Circling

• Cowering

• Dilated pupils

• Excessive drooling

• Flattened ears

• Front paw lifting

• Head shaking

• Heavy panting

• Losing control of his bladder or bowels

• Nose licking

• Obsessively licking one spot

• Refusing to look directly at something or someone

• Scratching himself

• Shying away from or refusing to move toward something or someone

• Trembling

• Whining and/or vocalizing

• Yawning when he’s not sleepy

• (Bloodshot eyes: Anxious dogs, even excited ones, will often have bloodshot eyes. But never assume it merely means stress. Medical conditions such as conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome and glaucoma can also cause it. If your Husky has bloodshot eyes, make an immediate appointment with your veterinarian).

Besides the signs of stress listed above, some dogs exhibit certain behaviors that signify CHRONIC stress. These include:

• Compulsive licking at one particular limb, thereby creating a “lick sore”

• Destructive behaviors such as tearing up his bed or destroying household items

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

• Low activity level and/or little interest in interacting with you

• Restlessness and/or pacing

• “Shut down” (totally withdrawn and unresponsive to stimuli and people)

• Vomiting bile

If your Husky is exhibiting any of these signs, once again, consult your veterinarian who can ensure that there are no underlying illnesses involved and suggest the best ways to manage your cherished companion’s stress. This may involve making adjustments to your home environment, your “handling” of him, and slowly increasing his socialization with people and other dogs to rebuild his confidence. You may also consider using one of the various medications known to modify canine behavior.