With insights from veterinarians, we’ve outlined some of the reasons—both innocuous and potentially serious—why your dog may be circling or spinning. We recommend contacting your veterinarian for guidance, especially if this behavior has started abruptly, persists, or worsens.

Dog Walking in Circles: When It’s Normal

Sometimes this behavior is instinctual and harmless. Here are a few of the most common benign reasons for a dog walking in circles.

Why Do Dogs Walk in Circles Before Lying Down?

It’s a relatively common behavior in the natural world. “Many canids, and in fact many animals, including cats, foxes, and some rodents may engage in this behavior,” says Dr. M. Leanne Lilly, a board certified veterinary behaviorist and clinical professor at the Ohio State University in Columbus.

While nobody can say with certainty why dogs do this, it’s thought to be a remnant of primitive behavior, says Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer for the American Kennel Club, based in New York City. “Dogs are making sure their area is safe and comfortable for them to lie down before rest or sleep.”

Why Do Dogs Walk in Circles Before They Poop?

A dog walking in circles before getting ready to poop may be searching for just the right spot, says Lilly. There are good reasons for this. “It is a vulnerable position to put themselves in, so they may be assessing footing, the best place to leave a message, and safety all in one go.”

Can the Earth’s Magnetic Field Cause a Dog to Walk in Circles?

One study found it possible that dogs align themselves with the Earth’s magnetic field, so theoretically they may be circling to face a certain direction. “When the magnetic fields were calm, the dogs oriented themselves north to south, but when the fields were erratic the north-south behavior was no longer observed,” Lilly explains. It’s still speculation at this point, since no one has been able to successfully replicate this study, “Though a citizen study using this for scientific literacy failed to find this same finding earlier this year,” she says.

Other Harmless Reasons for Circling Behavior in Dogs

In addition to the reasons above, there are some other common reasons you might notice your dog walking in circles:

Scent: Dogs are finely attuned to different scents, including those that originate from their own bodies. “They may briefly spin or circle to sniff or smell at their own rump, which if short and self-limiting, can be just because of a smell,” says Lilly. “My last dog used to jump up and turn to smell her own rump anytime she passed gas.”

Entertainment: Circling can be a way to alleviate boredom or to simply have fun. “Dogs can circle or spin (a faster form of circling) recreationally, a lot like kids. Dogs can and do seek out excitement in their lives,” says Dr. Walt Burghardt, a board certified staff veterinary behaviorist at BluePearl Specialty + Emergency Pet Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.

Medical Reasons for Dogs Walking in Circles

A dog walking in circles can sometimes indicate an underlying medical or behavioral issue, so it’s essential to contact your veterinarian if something seems out of the ordinary.

When an illness is responsible for a dog walking in circles, “there are usually other dispositional signs that a dog is unwell,” says Burghardt. Depending on the underlying conditions, other signs may include:

• Confusion
• Falling to one side
• Panting
• Blindness
• Wobbling
• Standing in a corner
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of housetraining
• Head shaking, scratching at ears, odor from ears
• Abnormal, rapid eye movement
• Head tilted to one side

The following are some medical reasons why dogs walk in circles.

Ear Conditions

If a dog walks in circles and is disoriented or displays other signs like nausea, vomiting, and weakness, an inner ear condition like vestibular disease may be responsible. Middle ear and inner ear conditions like vestibular disease are frequent culprits, says Burghardt, “especially in ear infection-prone dogs and older patients.” Vestibular disease, which is a condition that affects a dog’s balance and is often confused for a stroke, can be peripheral or central, and is called ‘old dog vestibular disease.’ This condition, while dramatic, requires supporting the dog, and often resolves spontaneously over time.

Canine Compulsive Disorders

Dogs unable to find healthy outlets for their fear and anxiety might instead rely on a number of displacement behaviors, one of which is circling or spinning, says Burghardt.

Some breeds, like Bull Terriers and German Shepherds are thought to be more genetically predisposed to developing canine compulsive disorders. “Terriers, especially Bull Terriers may be more likely to display a behavioral problem with spinning or tail-chasing,” explains Burghardt. “This type of behavior, called compulsive behavior, needs to be fully evaluated and usually needs behavioral, medical, and environmental treatment to help control.”

Neurological Conditions

Trauma, tumors, and infections are examples of neurological conditions that might cause a dog to walk in circles, says Lilly. “Any neurological disease could cause circling, whether that’s in the front of the brain, or if there is a spinal cord problem causing weakness in one side of the body. The dog may naturally drift in very loose circles toward the weak side when not directly attending to things on the opposite side of its body.”

Central vestibular disease can be caused by antibiotics, including amikacin, gentamicin, neomycin, and tobramycin, hypothyroidism, head trauma, tumors, and infections.

Pain and Discomfort

Anal gland disease flea allergy dermatitis, and lower spinal pain, for example can cause a dog to circle tightly, “Or attempting to lick, chew, or bite at the tail or rump,” says Lilly.

Brain Disease

Pug dog encephalitis is a serious disease that causes inflammation and death of the brain tissue. Pugs are genetically prone—about 1.2 percent will develop it—but other small breeds, including Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers are not immune. Other signs of this disease include blindness, seizures, and behavioral changes.

Why is My Dog Walking in Circles?

While only a veterinarian can make a diagnosis, a little observation on your part may provide some clues. Noticing what precedes the behavior, the time of day it occurs, and how long it lasts are some things to watch for, says Lilly.

“If it’s minor, predictable, and is not interfering with any other behaviors (such as circling four to five times before defecating), tell your vet at your dog’s next annual exam and make sure they evaluate your dog’s whole body.”

However, if it’s a sudden or new behavior, interrupting your dog’s ability to eat, sleep, play and rest, is combined with other clinical signs, or is the only way she can walk, then seek veterinary care as soon as possible, she says.

What to Do if Your Dog Keeps Walking in Circles

There are two main factors to watch for that may indicate that the circling is serious, and that you should contact your veterinarian.

The Behavior is Persistent. “Especially if there is any other indication that a pet might not be feeling well or is causing itself injury. These are clear signals that your pet should see their attending veterinarian to start the diagnostic process,” says Burghardt.

The Behavior Develops Abruptly. Circling that develops abruptly or that quickly gets worse, oftentimes indicates an issue, says Burghardt. “In these cases, a veterinary visit is recommended as soon as practical. When these behaviors are associated with disorientation, seizures or collapse an emergency visit is usually the best option.”

Getting Ready to Talk to Your Veterinarian

Be ready to answer questions your veterinarian might have, recommends Lilly. These include questions about eating, drinking and resting patterns, when the behavior occurs and how often, the length of time it lasts, and whether the dog responds when you call her name.

Veterinarians also say it helps for them to see a video of your dog walking in circles. “Getting one or more short clips of the behaviors of concern can often help your veterinarian or veterinary specialist to help sort things out,” offers Burkhardt.

Dog Walking in Circles: Diagnosis and Treatment

What can you expect when you take your pup in for the diagnostic exam?

Diagnosing a Dog Walking in Circles

There are no specific tests for circling or spinning, says Burghardt. “However, your veterinarian will often start with a complete physical and neurological examination and laboratory screening tailored to your individual pet.”

The exam might include an orthopedic evaluation, spinal pain evaluation, and reflex testing, says Lilly. “Some dogs may need advanced imaging (MRI) as that’s our best [way of] evaluating the brain, spinal cord and surrounding fluid and tissue.”

Treating a Dog Walking in Circles

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. For example: “For problems that involve distress or appear to be compulsive in nature, a combination of anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications with environmental enrichment and targeted training to teach more productive behaviors often help,” explains Burghardt. “Follow-up for behavioral cases often involves periodic owner-conducted assessments of the degree of improvement seen in their pet.”

Compulsive disorders are a diagnosis of exclusion, says Lilly. “We have to rule everything out first, including pain.” Your veterinarian will be able to walk you through treatment for your dog if needed. The cause of circling, once determined, can often be resolved with the help of professionals, so do not hesitate to reach out to your local veterinarian.

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In fact, fear aggression is one of the most common causes of aggression in dogs (5) (6) and may also play a role in other types of aggressive behavior, such as owner-directed aggression or possessive and territorial aggression (7).

Fear aggression in dogs is a treatable problem if we understand why the dog is aggressive and commit to a behavior modification plan that decreases the dog’s anxiety.

What is Fear Aggression?

Fear aggression in dogs is a form of self-defense and may be expressed toward people, other animals or even objects. When a dog feels threatened, they may use body language or behaviors to drive the threat away, increasing the distance between themselves and the threat.

A frightened dog may freeze, flee and/or fight. For example, a dog may freeze, falsely giving the impression that he’s tolerating petting from a stranger, when in fact, he’s petrified. Once the stranger turns to leave, the fearful dog may take the opportunity to lunge and snap, before running away to hide. All three behaviors—freezing, fighting and fleeing—occur because the dog is scared.

In some situations, fear aggression may be a normal behavior. For example, if a sleeping dog was suddenly woken up by an unfamiliar dog, barking and growling is an understandable response to the intrusion. A dog might show a similar response if a human family member or visitor tries to give them a pet while sleeping. This response may cause the dog’s owner to become upset. However, in both cases, the dog responded aggressively because they were fearful when disturbed, regardless of who woke them.

Recognizing that fear plays a role is essential to treating fear aggressive behavior.

Causes of Fear Aggression in Dogs

Any experience that causes fear in dogs may also cause fear aggression. Common situations include:

Interactions with people or other animals. Both familiar and unfamiliar people—particularly if they are invading a dog’s personal space—can cause a dog to become fearful and aggressive. Bending over the dog, reaching toward him, hugging or petting may cause the dog to feel trapped and uncomfortable, similar to a person who receives unwanted attention from a stranger.

Being approached in confined spaces. Approaching a dog who is under a bed or table or in a dog crate may also elicit fear, especially if the dog retreated there to hide. Dogs may also feel trapped when they are approached while on the couch or in small or narrow spaces (such as hallways or between items of furniture) may also react out of fear, since it is harder to avoid confrontation.

People that look or act different. People wearing clothing or carrying objects that alter their appearance (hats, sunglasses, bags), or appear or behave in an unfamiliar way (wearing a uniform or costume, limping, dancing) may cause a fear reaction in dogs.

Fast, sudden or unexpected movements and sounds. People moving quickly or unexpectedly (visitors standing up or exiting/entering a room, joggers, skateboarders) or making loud noises (cheering) as well as objects that do the same (trash trucks, lawn mowers, vacuums) may also trigger fear or fear aggression.

Environments or situations that have been scary in the past. If a dog had a negative experience at a veterinary office or a grooming appointment, it may cause them to be fearful when visiting.

Similar to people, some dogs are more fearful or aggressive than others. This may be due to their genetics (8) or inadequate or inappropriate socialization at an early age (9).

Learning also plays a role in the development of fear aggression. Previous traumatic experiences may establish negative associations. For example, if a dog was attacked by another dog on a walk, they may start to bark aggressively at all dogs seen on walks. Fear-aggressive dogs may learn that growling or snapping successfully prevents a scary experience, such as a nail trim, from happening. If this is the case, the dog is more likely to growl the next time their owner approaches with the nail clippers.

However, punishing a dog for showing fear-aggressive behavior or forcing them to submit to the experience will often make the dog’s fear aggression worse (10). The best way to stop fear aggression is to alleviate the dog’s fear in that situation.

As with all behavioral problems, physical illness—especially those that cause pain or discomfort—must be ruled out or treated before assuming the dog’s behavior is due solely to a psychological cause. If your dog exhibits sudden aggression, take your dog to the veterinarian for a check up immediately.

Signs of Fear Aggression in Dogs

Before fear aggressive dogs growl, snap or bite, they often exhibit early warning signs that they are uncomfortable. If you catch these early signs, fear aggression can be prevented.

Signs of fear that may happen before aggressive behaviors in dogs could include:

Specific body language cues. These cues include a lowered or tucked tail, ears pulled back, wide eyes with large pupils (“whale eye”), wrinkled brow, tense face or body, crouched positioning or making themselves small.

Movement: Movements that may indicate fear include trembling, panting, avoiding contact or hiding, standing still or freezing, pacing or agitation.

Focus: A fearful dog might stare intently at the threat (hypervigilance) or avoid eye contact (darting glances).

Disinterest. Fearful dogs might not take treats or participate in enjoyable activities like play

Dogs may also exhibit “displacement behaviors” such as lip licking, scratching or sniffing. Displacement behaviors are normal behaviors that are out of context for the situation. This is similar to a person tapping their foot or playing with their hair when they are nervous. You may see these behaviors prior to or in addition to the signs above.

It’s important to note that a wagging tail does not necessarily mean that the dog is friendly. Aggressive or nervous dogs may also wag their tail. Generally speaking, a happy dog will have a wiggly backend and looser tail wagging in a wide, sweeping arc. An aggressive dog’s wag is narrower and his tail and body will be stiffer.

If the dog is barking aggressively, snarling (lip curl), growling, snapping or nipping they have already reached their limit. Stop interacting with the dog and leave the situation. Just because a dog has not yet escalated to biting does not mean that they won’t bite in the future.

Tips for Overcoming Fear Aggression in Dogs

Dealing with and overcoming fear aggression in dogs involves a few key steps.

Keep your cool. Do not punish your dog when he is aggressive. Keep in mind that your dog is aggressive because he is scared. Yelling, hitting or pinning your dog to the ground will make him more fearful and increase the likelihood of aggression.

Learn your dog’s language. Watch your dog’s body language and behavior closely to recognize early signs of fear and anxiety. If he is worried, remove him from the situation before he becomes aggressive.

Know your dog’s likes and dislikes. Set your dog up to be successful by actively preventing situations that your dog finds threatening. For example, if your dog is nervous around new people, confine him to another room with a treat or toy when you have visitors.

Create positive associations. If you cannot avoid stressful situations or can’t predict how your dog might react, create a positive association with the situation by pairing it with something your dog enjoys such as treats, toys or play.

Communicate with each other. Teaching basic obedience skills such as “sit,” “down,” “come” and “stay” enables you and your dog to understand and communicate with each other. You can use the cues to redirect your dog to perform a calm, acceptable behavior that can be rewarded.

Reduce fear. Over-the-counter products including supplements, pheromone products, body wraps, and calming music may reduce your dog’s fear or anxiety. Choose products that have been scientifically tested to ensure they are safe and effective. Talk to your veterinarian to determine which products would work best for your dog.

Seek professional help as soon as possible. Do not wait for your dog’s behavior to resolve on its own. Fear aggression is unlikely to improve with time. Consult with your veterinarian to rule out physical causes for aggression. Your vet may be able to recommend over-the-counter anti-anxiety products, provide a behavior modification plan or refer you to a positive-reinforcement trainer in your area.

Additionally the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior lists veterinarians and non-veterinary behaviorists who treat dogs with fear aggression.

Canine fear aggression is a treatable, but serious emotional illness that impacts the welfare and quality of life of you and your dog. Understanding that your dog is acting out of fear, catching early signs of anxiety and working with a behavioral professional to implement a behavior modification plan tailored to your dog will improve the odds of successfully overcoming fear aggression in your dog.

Calming Down a Dog: General Guidelines

Dog anxiety can manifest in many ways, from extreme behavior to withdrawal. In some cases—like when a dog is suffering from separation anxiety—the behavior that results is hard to miss. But in other scenarios stress can cause a dog to shut down and withdraw in ways that might not be as obvious. Keep in mind that a quiet dog isn’t necessarily always a happy dog.

The first step in learning how to calm a dog down with anxiety is recognizing the body language that signifies your dog is stressed or anxious. Once a dog tips over into a “fight or flight” response bringing about positive behavioral change is more challenging. Picking up on the early stages of canine distress will make it easier for you to work with your dog and will prevent your dog’s discomfort from escalating.

In addition to the hard-to-miss behaviors, a dog in need of calming support might:

• Tremble
• Hunch over
• Freeze in place
• Move in slowly
• Repeatedly lick lips
• Yawn frequently
• Hide
• Pant heavily or suddenly stop panting despite temperature or activity level

There’s an outdated dog calming tip that suggested pet parents should avoid comforting a distressed dog because it might reinforce the dog’s fear and accidentally encourage the behavior. It’s simply not true.

Fearful reactions are involuntary emotional responses—your dog has no control over them so acknowledging them won’t make them worse. Being there for your dog during times of stress and offering comfort will help your dog understand that he can turn to you for support when he’s feeling anxious.

How to Calm Down a Dog With Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a stress response that a dog exhibits when the person (or people) that the dog is bonded to is away from home. The key to figuring out how to calm a dog down with separation anxiety requires permanently changing his perception of what being alone means.

Dogs suffering from severe separation anxiety can benefit from instructor-led sessions that utilize a training technique called systematic desensitization, which is a very gradual process of slowly getting your dog used to being left alone using small, incremental steps.

Dogs experiencing milder forms of separation distress might benefit from the following tips:

Desensitizing pre-departure cues. These include attempting to desensitize your dog to actions like grabbing the keys or putting on a jacket.

Mental and physical stimulation. Engaging your dog’s body and brain prior to leaving the house by playing training or scenting games that will make him more likely to rest.

A useful distraction. Leave treat-stuffable, interactive toys for your dog to enjoy when you leave.

How to Calm Down a Scared Dog

Because fear in dogs can have many causes, the first step in figuring out how to calm down a scared dog is determining the reason for the fear. Once you understand what is causing the fear, you can desensitize the trigger in gradual training sessions.

It’s important to let fearful dogs set the pace for interactions. Pushing dogs beyond their comfort zone can lead to regressions. To calm down a scared dog:

Identify all triggers: Is your dog scared of every loud noise outside your window, or just trucks? Do all men in hats make him nervous, or just bearded men in hats? The better you are at determining what’s scaring your dog, the more effectively you can deal with the issue.

Introduce the trigger at a distance: If your pup is afraid of bearded men in hats, have a bearded, hat-wearing man stand at a distance at which your dog can see him, but not close enough that his presence will trigger a fear response in your dog.

Pair the trigger with treats: The goal of the exercise is to change your dog’s perception of the trigger that is causing fear. An easy way to do it is associate the scary thing with something good: treats! Feed your dog high-value goodies like cheese or hot dogs while the trigger is in the distance, and stop feeding them when the person steps out of sight.

Gradually decrease the distance: Once seeing the trigger in the distance evokes an excited response from your dog—like he gives a little tail wag—begin doing trials with the trigger a little closer. Gradually reduce the distance in ongoing sessions.

How to Calm Down a Dog During Fireworks or Storms

When considering how to calm a dog down during fireworks and storms it’s important to remember that the booming sounds can make a dog feel vulnerable. Thunderstorms and fireworks are common canine fears.

Both are scary, but storms have the added challenges of being unpredictable (making it hard for you to be prepared), plus the changes in the barometric pressure that might lead to increased static electricity can exacerbate fear responses in dogs. Luckily, fireworks are a bit more predictable and pet parents can generally prepare a bit more for these events.

The following tips can help soothe your dog fireworks and storms:

Get dogs used to the sounds. Get your dog more comfortable with the noise by playing a recording of fireworks or storm sounds at a low volume and pairing it with treats.

Use a compression vest. Using a “swaddling” garment can help your dog feel more secure during storms or fireworks.

Keep your dog occupied. Giving your dog something to do, like a treat-filled puzzle toy, might help him focus on something other than the noise outside.

Muffle the sounds. A white noise machine might be enough to cover outdoor booming.

Give your dog a chill spot. Some dogs seek out the bathroom during storms, so make it more comfortable for him by putting his bed there with some water and toys.

How to Calm Down a Dog in the Car

Some dogs love to hop in the car and go for an adventure but they show their excitement by being out-of-control passengers. Not only is a rowdy dog a distraction for the driver, it’s also dangerous for your pup. On the other hand, some dogs become anxious and stressed by car rides and may pant, shake, and whine excessively. They might also try to pace around or jump up to look out the window if unrestrained, which can lead to injury.

You can help your dog learn to be a safer passenger with the following tips:

Work on manners getting in and out of the car. Instead of letting your dog torpedo into the car, ask for a polite sit before you allow him to jump out, and get a sit and “wait” prior to taking him out of the car.

Start with short trips. Instead of going for a long ride right out of the gate, try going for a quick drive around the block. This way, it ends before your dog works up to a fever pitch if they get overexcited or it helps anxious dogs get used to being in the car and returning home without the stress of a long trip.

Use the right kind of restraint. Not only is a free range dog in the back seat dangerous, it can also encourage dashing from window to window. Invest in a crash-tested car restraint that can keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Consider anti-car sickness remedies. Some overeager passengers might be acting out due to discomfort (drooling and heavy panting are hints), so try an over-the-counter remedy to help him feel more comfortable.

Calming Products for Dogs: 6 Recommended Options

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Great Pet Care may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The following products are a great place to start when trying to figure out how to get a dog to calm down.

The Anxious Pet Organic Hemp Oil

You’ve heard about the benefits of CBD oil for humans, but your pup can also enjoy the calm that comes from nature’s chill pill with organic hemp oil for dogs. These easy to use drops have earned raves from users and come in 400mg (for smaller dogs) and 800mg (for larger dogs) options.

Thundershirt

This calming garment that hits your dog’s calming pressure points might have “thunder” in the name but it can also help address a variety of anxious behaviors, like travel and visits to the vet.

Plato Small Bites Dog Treats

Helping dogs feel more calm and confident around stressors requires a ton of treats, and these small but mighty goodies are perfectly sized for training sessions.

Hyper Pet Reward IQ Treat Mat

This busy toy can help keep your dog happily engaged (and not worried about stressy stuff) while he licks goodies like wet food or peanut butter from the crevices.

Adaptil Dog Calming Diffuser

It can be tough to calm a dog dealing with stress in his own home, which is why this odorless plug-in diffuser is a great option. The calming pheromones mimic those given off by dogs nursing puppies and can help your dog feel more secure.

Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Machine

When it comes to stressful sounds, if you can’t stop ‘em, cover ‘em up instead! A white noise machine is a simple way to add a layer of consistent sound that can drown out everything from construction noise to storms.

Ark Happy Traveler Formula

Help your amped-up canine passenger feel calmer in the car with these calming herbal capsules. They can help with both anxiety and motion sickness, making them a great option for car rides. These capsules are filled with natural calming remedies including German chamomile, valerian, L-tryptophan, and St. John’s Wort.

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Let’s go over some of the reasons why your dog may be hurting, how to recognize signs of pain in dogs, and steps you can take to help your pet.

Why Is My Dog in Pain?

As much as we try to protect our dogs, it’s highly likely that they will experience some form of pain in their lifetime. Pain can be caused for a variety of reasons, including sudden injuries, illnesses, and chronic diseases.

Traumatic events, such as altercations with other dogs, falls, and playtime injuries can all hurt our beloved canine companions. Acute illnesses (e.g., pancreatitis, gastroenteritis) and infections (e.g., ear infections, anal gland infections) also cause pain in dogs.

Dogs may also develop chronic diseases over time that are painful to them, such as dental disease or osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a progressive, degenerative disease of the joints. It can occur in any breed, size, or shape of dog, and can become more and more painful as time goes on. It may cause them to move more slowly, limp, and have trouble getting up or lying down (1). In addition, many dog breeds, such as Dachshunds and Basset Hounds, can suffer from back pain due to their anatomy (2).

6 Sneaky Signs a Dog Could Be in Pain

While some dogs may show obvious signs of pain, such as whining, limping, or shaking, others are more stoic and hide their pain (1). This may be due to their ancestry of living in the wild, where only the strong survive. If they show weakness, they may be more vulnerable to an attack. Here are six sneaky signs to watch out for that may indicate a dog is in pain:

Change in social interaction

Dogs in pain may avoid or even hide from their family (3). They may also become quiet and withdrawn. This may be because they are trying to protect themselves from further pain by staying isolated. If your dog is sleeping in odd places, avoiding contact with others, isn’t interested in playing anymore, or otherwise not acting like themselves, pain could be to blame. Keep in mind that every dog is an individual, which means some pets may do the opposite and become clingy and want to be near their owner. The key word here is “change” in the way they behave or interact with you. What are they doing that they didn’t do before or what are they not doing that they used to do?

Sudden onset of aggression

Dogs that suddenly become reactive or aggressive may also be suffering from pain (3). Again, they may be trying to protect themselves from further pain, or they may be trying to tell you to stay away. If your dog is acting aggressive, you should reach out to your veterinarian—especially if this behavior is uncharacteristic of your pet.

Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or run

Many times, dogs that are experiencing some sort of back pain or orthopedic pain may not perform everyday tasks like they used to (3). For instance, dogs in pain may hesitate to go up or down stairs or jump up on the couch—or they may avoid doing these things altogether. They may also have a tough time lying down or getting up after lying down due to pain and stiffness. A dog in pain may not want to run around or play fetch in the backyard as usual either.

Decreased appetite

Oftentimes dogs in pain will experience reduced appetite (4). If your dog is ordinarily a chow hound, it will be easy to tell when she is not feeling well if she chooses to skip a meal. If your dog is a grazer or has always been a little picky, however, it might be more difficult to detect if she does not want to eat as much. There are many other potential causes for a decrease in appetite, such as upset stomach, foreign body ingestion, or pancreatitis, so it’s best to contact your veterinarian if your dog isn’t eating.

Change in walk and posture

If your dog is suddenly walking or standing in a strange manner, your pet may be in pain. You may notice your dog slowing down or lagging behind on walks, or stiffness in your dog’s back legs. Abnormal posture, such as hunched back, could indicate back, neck, or even abdominal pain (4). Dogs in pain may tuck their tails between their legs or sit with their back legs kicked out. Other potential signs of discomfort may include squinting eyes and flinching on touch.

Excessive licking or chewing

Pain can manifest in many different ways, and dogs may not completely comprehend what is going on when it happens. They may repeatedly lick or chew at the affected area to try to alleviate the pain (3). If your dog is compulsively licking or chewing at herself, she could also be suffering from a behavioral problem or skin condition.

If your dog is displaying any of the signs discussed above, consult your veterinarian to determine the cause of your dog’s behavioral or physical changes.

How to Help a Dog in Pain

If you are even a little bit suspicious that your dog is in pain, the first thing you should do is contact your veterinarian. Do not administer any pain relief medication without being instructed to do so by your vet. It is especially important that you don’t just reach for human over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, because these can do more harm than good. Your vet will make sure that your dog receives the right type of pain relief and at the right dose. He or she will also check if your dog has any health conditions or is receiving any other medications that can make taking pain relief medications more risky. There are pain control products, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), that have been developed especially for dogs. Your veterinarian will advise you if other therapies can be practiced at home, such as a cold or warm compress or cage rest. Self-treating your pet may increase the risk of further injury or illness, so please talk to your veterinarian before administering any sort of treatments to your dog.

Dogs lick for a wide variety of reasons, including communication, and licking is usually a normal behavior for them. Dogs love to explore with their mouths and tongues. However, if any licking behavior becomes persistent or excessive, it may be the sign of a medical or a behavioral disorder.

The following article will explore the reasons behind why dogs lick things in general and, more specifically, why dogs lick their lips.

Why Do Dogs Lick So Much?

Dogs are first introduced to licking behavior by their mothers. As soon as puppies are born, their mothers must lick them to stimulate them to urinate and defecate, as well as to groom them. Dogs learn this behavior and will lick each other or their humans as part of normal social interactions. Licking can also be soothing to dogs.

Unlike humans, dogs do not have hands that they can use to touch, feel, and explore the world. Instead, dogs use their noses as well as their tongues to explore and learn more about their environments.

Dogs have an amazing sense of smell and if something smells good or pungent, including smells we find disgusting, it will often prompt a dog to lick that object. Your dog may lick your feet because they are stinky. Dogs may also lick things because they taste good to them, such as another dog’s mouth after they’ve recently eaten.

For some dogs, licking can be an attention-seeking behavior that we unknowingly reinforce. Dogs are very in tune with their owners. If you gave your puppy attention every time he gave you kisses because it was adorable (who can resist puppy breath?), he learned to continue this behavior into adulthood in order to receive attention.

But not all licking behavior is for attention or a normal part of exploration. A common reason that may cause a dog to excessively lick himself is allergies. Allergies cause a dog to feel itchy and he will excessively groom to try to alleviate the itch. Dogs may also lick their lips or objects obsessively if they are nervous, stressed, or bored.

Reasons Dogs Lick Their Lips

Dogs often lick their lips as part of a normal communication with a strange dog or a human to let them know that they are not a threat to the stranger and to receive feedback that the stranger is also not a threat to the dog (1).

Besides licking their lips as part of normal communication and greeting others, dogs also lick their lips for the following reasons:

Hunger

When dogs feel hungry or they smell something delicious, like hamburgers on the grill, they will lick their lips.

After Eating

After finishing a meal—when there is still food in his mouth or on his lips—you might notice your dog licking his lips more than normal.

Fear, Anxiety, or Stress

When dogs feel threatened or uncomfortable, they will lick their lips. Studies showed that when a dog experienced aggressive behavior from another dog, he would lick his lips. This, in turn, would decrease that aggressive behavior in the aggressor dog (2). Dogs too will display lip licking toward humans when they are scared or uncomfortable, in the hopes that the human will not become aggressive toward them.

Dogs may also lick their lips when you pet them as a signal that they are nervous or stressed by the behavior. Other dog body language signs of fear, anxiety, and stress include avoiding direct eye contact, a tense body posture, crouching down, pinned ears and a tucked tail. If you see any of these body language signs in a dog, it’s best to stop the behavior, give him some space, avert your eyes, and let him come to you.

Ongoing anxiety can also lead to chronic behaviors such as lip licking. Anxiety behaviors can be reduced by giving your dog adequate exercise, providing him with interactive toys, ignoring anxious behaviors, and rewarding calm behaviors. Your veterinarian can help diagnose anxiety in your dog and may prescribe anxiety medications if the issue is severe.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Yes, dogs can develop OCD just like people can, and excessive lip licking can be a symptom. OCD behaviors will typically first occur at or around the age of adolescence. Dogs with OCD will not usually stop when asked to stop the behavior and will do it even when their owners are not around. If you are concerned that your dog has OCD he should be evaluated by a veterinarian, who may then refer him to a veterinary behaviorist, as this can be a difficult condition to treat.

Nausea

Similarly to humans, when dogs feel nauseous they will start to produce excess saliva and this in turn will cause them to lick their lips. Other clues that can tell you nausea is the reason for lip licking are loss of appetite, eating grass, or vomiting. If these symptoms are severe or last longer than a day or so, you should take your dog to see his veterinarian.

Any disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract including inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, food allergies, pancreatitis and intestinal cancers can cause a dog to lick his lips.

Dental or Oral Issues

Dog lip licking may be due to an issue inside of the mouth. Periodontal disease, an inflammatory condition of the gums and the tissues supporting the teeth, is present in some form in most adult dogs. As dogs age, if they do not receive regular oral care, this disease may progress and lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. This will often lead to lip licking when the disease is advanced.

Tumors in the mouth and foreign objects stuck in the mouth may also lead to lip licking. If you notice lip licking suddenly in your dog, make sure you take a good look in his mouth and take him to the vet if the behavior continues and is frequent.

Seizures

Partial or focal seizures in dogs are seizures that only affect a portion of the brain and may only cause subtle symptoms such as lip licking. If your dog suddenly develops lip licking, especially if your dog acts strange before and/or after the behavior begins, this may be a symptom of seizures and your dog should be taken to see a vet as soon as possible.

Cognitive Dysfunction

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) is a disorder similar to dementia in humans and may cause a dog to lick its lips. It occurs in old and geriatric dogs and is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning your veterinarian will diagnose this condition only when other causes of lip licking are excluded. Other symptoms of CDS include house soiling, change in sleep-wake cycles, pacing, vocalization and confusion.

Why Do Dogs Smack Their Lips?

While lip smacking may be a bit louder and more annoying than lip licking, the causes of lip licking and lip smacking are not usually very different.

If a dog were to have severe mouth pain or something else really disturbing happening, the response may be more exaggerated and lead to lip smacking instead of lip licking.

Excessive Lip Licking In Dogs

Occasional lip licking can be normal dog behavior. But a dog’s licking is considered excessive if it interrupts you or your dog’s day-to-day routine or quality of life.

If your dog licks his lips without stopping for longer than a minute at a time, this would be considered excessive. If the lick lipping wakes you or him up in the middle of the night, the behavior is excessive.

You should not scold or punish your dog when he licks his lips. Punishment can increase anxiety and it gives the dog attention, so it can inadvertently reinforce the behavior.

If you think your dog’s lip licking is due to a behavioral issue and not due to a medical issue, you can try some things at home to help decrease or eliminate the behavior. You can try distracting your dog with a food-filled toy when you see the behavior. You can also ignore the behavior by looking away or leaving the room when the behavior occurs. Getting your dog enough exercise may also help control lip-licking behavior.

If the behavior occurs despite trying the above suggestions, it’s time to take your pup to his veterinarian.

When To Be Concerned About Dog Lip Licking

Excessive lip licking often has a medical cause. You should take your dog to the vet if excessive lip licking occurs suddenly and there is no apparent cause for the behavior. This is especially important if your pet is older or you notice any other abnormal symptoms such as a change in appetite, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss.

Before taking your dog to see a veterinarian, it is very helpful to take several videos recording the abnormal behavior. This can help your veterinarian tremendously in reaching a diagnosis.

During a veterinary appointment, the doctor will do a thorough neurological examination, and blood, urine, and fecal tests should be performed. If the tests do not show any abnormalities, the problem is likely due to a behavioral disorder and your veterinarian may recommend working with a behaviorist or trainer.

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Why Is My Dog Snoring?

Snoring happens when air movement through the nose, mouth and throat is partially obstructed in the airways. The air vibrates tissues in the throat, which wobble and give off a characteristic snoring sound. This is more likely to happen during sleep, when muscles that hold these tissues out of the way relax, allowing them to flop into the airway.

Dogs who snore usually have abnormal anatomy or swelling in their mouth or throat, causing the snoring sound, although sometimes their snoring will be just due to sleeping in a strange position.

Is Dog Snoring Normal?

One study showed that 58 percent of pet parents of dogs with breathing problems like snoring thought their dogs were normal. Although dog snoring is relatively common, snoring shouldn’t be ignored as it’s often a sign of an underlying problem. While the underlying problem may not always be serious, it’s best to get dog snoring investigated in case it’s a sign of something more concerning.

In some breeds, snoring is extremely common. Brachycephalic, or “short-snouted” breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs often make snoring noises all the time. This is because their short skull cannot easily contain all of their mouth and throat tissues, causing a lot of tissue to protrude into the airway. This is called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).

The same study showed that snoring affected 93 percent of dogs with BOAS, with over half snoring “almost constantly.” Although many people would say that these dogs’ snuffling and snorting sounds are “normal for the breed,” it’s still a problem and should be investigated.

Why Do Dogs Snore So Loudly?

Do you think your dog snores louder than any dog you’ve heard? The volume of a dog’s snore is due to two things:

• The speed of the air they’re breathing in
• The amount of tissue that’s causing the obstruction

Bigger dogs are likely to have a bigger snore, but this doesn’t always hold true—small dogs with very obstructed airways will snore loudly, too.

Despite this, it’s pretty standard for dogs to sound like they’re snoring quite loudly for their size and louder snores are more common in dogs with narrower airways, so a loud snore is more concerning than a quiet one.

What Causes Snoring in Dogs?

If you’ve noticed your dog’s snoring, you’re right to be concerned. There’s always a cause, some of which are more serious than others. Let’s have a look at the common causes of snoring in dogs:

Body Position

One of the milder causes of snoring in dogs, positional snoring only happens when your dog is in a specific position, like on their back. Their tongue or soft tissues flop over their airway, causing the snore. If your dog only ever snores when deep asleep in an unusual position, this is likely the cause. Thankfully, positional snoring is not a concern as long as your dog doesn’t suffer from sleep apnea.

Dog Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when normal breathing stops during sleep. Affected animals will stop breathing for several seconds and then suddenly wake, often with a snort. Luckily, sleep apnea in dogs is rare.

BOAS

As previously mentioned, Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a condition affecting short-snouted dogs. Repeated breeding for shorter snouts has resulted in dogs with smaller nostrils and shorter skulls but normal-length soft palates. The soft palate dangles into the throat, causing the snuffling, snorting and snoring sounds so common in these breeds. A lifetime of breathing past this partial obstruction can cause other parts of the throat to swell or change, further reducing the airway.

BOAS is more likely to be the cause of snoring if you have one of the following breeds:

• Pug
• French Bulldog
• English Bulldog
• Pomeranian
• Boston Terrier
• Lhasa Apso
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Pekingese
• Shih Tsu

Obesity

Obesity is another cause of snoring, as excess fat can build up around the mouth and throat tissues, causing them to protrude into the airways and disrupt air movement. Obesity in dogs can occur alongside other causes of snoring and worsen it.

Allergies

Your dog might start snoring if the nasal passages are inflamed due to an allergy. Snoring is unlikely to be the only symptom of allergies in dogs, but it might be seen alongside other signs. These might include itching, licking the feet, ear infections or sneezing.

Respiratory Disease

Any disease of the airways, such as kennel cough, can cause the throat to become inflamed and cause snoring. Snoring won’t be the only symptom of the disease – you’ll likely see coughing or sneezing as well.

When Should I Worry About My Dog’s Snoring?

Discussing your dog’s snoring with your veterinarian is always best before trying dog snoring remedies at home. If your dog suddenly starts snoring and it isn’t related to only one sleeping position, you should book a check-up in the next week. You should book an appointment even sooner if your dog has started snoring while awake.

If your snoring dog is a brachycephalic breed, you should book an appointment with your vet in the next few weeks to have them assessed for BOAS. Some things can be done to help dogs with BOAS, so it’s worth having the assessment performed.

If your senior dog has started snoring, they also need a check-up. Old age isn’t a cause of snoring alone and suggests there’s something else happening you should investigate.

If your dog is snoring only occasionally or at particular times of the year, you don’t need to bring them to the vet until their next routine check-up. However, if you notice them deteriorate, you should move the appointment forward. Signs that your dog needs an urgent veterinary appointment include:

• Fast breathing (more than 40 breaths in a minute when sleeping) or continuous panting
• Struggling to breathe (increased effort, ribs moving more than usual)
• Blue-tinged lips or tongue
• Snoring accompanied by coughing or collapse

How Do I Stop My Dog From Snoring?

If your dog’s snoring is keeping you awake at night, you might be hoping for some snoring remedies for dogs. You should first consult your vet – they’ll advise surgery, a diet plan, or medications if appropriate.

At home, you may wish to try changing your dog’s bed. Take note of which positions cause your dog to snore and see if there’s a bed that prevents your dog from sleeping in those positions. For instance, you might want a dog bed with raised sides for your dog to rest their head on. Some people also suggest using a humidifier – although it won’t stop your dog from snoring, it might make their snore a little quieter.

Experts estimate that separation anxiety affects about 20 percent of dogs. Despite being common, the condition is serious—and seriously misunderstood. While many associate separation anxiety with extreme destruction and red-flag behavior, the truth is that the disorder can manifest in a number of ways. And even if your dog isn’t frantically chewing through the door, they could be experiencing severe stress when left alone.

There’s an obvious “ick” factor that comes from walking through the puddle of drool your dog left on the floor but it’s also just, well, weird. Or is it?

“Licking the floor can be totally normal,” says Dr. Sara L. Bennett, clinical assistant professor of veterinary behavior at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dog Licking: What’s Normal?

Dogs use their tongues for eating and grooming—lapping up kibble from the bottom of a bowl, taking a quick tongue bath, or offering up wet kisses are all normal behaviors, according to Bennett. However, habitual licking might be the sign of an issue.

“In the right context, licking is considered a normal behavior,” she adds.

To determine whether licking is a normal behavior, Bennett looks at where the licking occurs. In areas where there might be food scraps—think near their food bowls after supper or around the kitchen island—dogs might lick the floor to see if something tasty has fallen.

Frequency, intensity, and duration matter, too. Bennett notes that dogs that are licking the floor—or furniture, themselves, people, the air—nonstop without a specific reason could be a sign that something more serious is going on. In these cases, excessive licking of surfaces (or ELS), may be diagnosed.

“When it becomes more habitual—it’s happening multiple times a day in areas where there’s no food present…it lasts more than a couple of minutes and the behavior can’t be interrupted [by calling the dog or offering a treat], it starts to fall into the ‘abnormal’ category and we have to do some detective work to figure out why.”

Why Is My Dog Licking the Floor?

When it comes to deciphering the reasons your dog keeps licking the floor, there are a few common causes including:

• Food
• Upset stomach
• Stress
• Cushing’s Disease

Food

One of the biggest reasons your dog licks the floor? It may taste really good, says Bennett. A few drops of spilled coffee, a bit of bacon grease, a few scraps of spaghetti sauce can send your dog into a floor-licking frenzy to make sure every last drop is devoured.

“If you spill some food on the floor, of course your dog is going to be motivated to lick it up,” Bennett says.

When your dog is frantically licking the floor near the stove, your meal prep area, or the spot where she eats her kibble, Bennett says it’s likely nothing more than a desire to make sure every crumb is consumed.

As long as there aren’t scraps of foods that are toxic to dogs on the floor, it’s ok to let your dog serve as a four-legged vacuum.

Upset Stomach

Tummy troubles are among the most common reasons your dog’s licker may be working overtime. In fact, one study found that 73 percent of dogs that displayed ELS were diagnosed with gastrointestinal issues ranging from irritable bowel syndrome and pancreatitis to giardia.

“The hypothesis is that it’s a behavioral reaction to feeling sick to their stomachs,” Bennett explains.

It seems that the constant mouth and tongue movements your dog uses to lick the floor (and other surfaces) increases saliva production, which buffers against the acid in the stomach, according to Bennett. Or, perhaps the saliva provides added lubrication to make it easier to vomit, she adds.

When tummy upset is to blame, your dog may be licking the floor and vomiting, licking the floor and eating grass, or licking the floor and panting. Your vet can run tests to determine the source of the tummy upset. Treating the problem should help control the behavior (and feel better).

Stress

Like all repetitive behaviors, a dog constantly licking the floor could be a sign of an obsessive disorder or stress.

“Repetitive floor licking can be a ‘displacement behavior’ and might be a signal that your dog is experiencing anxiety,” explains Dana Emerson, a veterinary technician and Karen Pryor Academy-certified trainer with the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center.

Emerson suggests looking at recent changes to the environment (like a move or new pet) that may be making your dog feel anxious or determining whether there are certain triggers that are associated with licking the floor such as thunderstorms, beeps, buzzers, or loud noises.

Understanding the trigger can help address the stressor and keep your dog from constantly licking the floor.

Cushing’s Disease

Increased levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, can trigger chronic stress, leading to a diagnosis of Cushing’s disease, Bennett says. The hallmark signs of this disease include increased thirst, urination, appetite, excessive panting, low energy levels, hair loss, and frequent skin infections.

Not all dogs with Cushing’s disease constantly lick the floor (or other surfaces), Bennett notes, “The chronic stress state works against the normal mechanisms of keeping the GI tract healthy,” and that stomach upset could cause excessive licking behaviors.

Your vet can do blood work to get a definitive diagnosis and medications can help manage the disease.

What to Do if Your Dog Keeps Licking the Floor

Remember, licking the floor can be a totally normal behavior, especially if your dog is lapping at the linoleum while you’re making dinner or dishing up her kibble—but if the behavior starts suddenly, increases in frequency or intensity, or happens when there is no food around, it could be a sign something is wrong.

“Talk to your vet,” Bennett advises. “They can do the detective work to get to the cause and come up with a treatment plan.”

Dog Licking the Floor: Diagnosis and Treatment

A comprehensive physical exam is often the starting point for determining why your dog is suddenly licking the floor.

Your vet will be on the lookout for physical symptoms such as bloating, hunched back, weakness, fever, hair loss, and skin infections that could be signs of illnesses like pancreatitis or Cushing’s disease. You’ll also be asked questions about recent changes in environment or behavior like vomiting, eating grass, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.

Depending on their findings during the physical exam, your vet may recommend blood tests, X-rays, ultrasound, or fecal samples to get more information for a definitive diagnosis. When excessively licking the floor is linked to a gastrointestinal issue or Cushing’s disease, medication may be prescribed to treat the illness.

If there are no signs of a physical illness, your vet may suggest consulting with a behaviorist to determine if stress or a compulsive disorder could be to blame.

With medical or behavioral treatment, your dog can go from obsessively licking the floor to only tasting the tile when food has fallen.

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Let’s take a closer look at what hackles are, how they work, what they represent when they are raised, and what pet parents can do if they notice raised hackles on their pups.

What are Hackles?

Hackles are the group of hairs that stand up along a dogs neck and back caused by a fear response or to show dominance over another animal.

Dogs aren’t the only species that have hackles. Birds have hackles around their necks and erect their feathers when they are asserting dominance. Roosters have brightly colored hackles, or erectile plumage, to be more visually loud. Cats have hackles along their backs and tails, and this is the typical image we see of the “Halloween” cat with arched back and fur standing up to make them look larger. We see this often when the cats are fearful or feel threatened.

What is Piloerection?

Piloerection is the bristling or raising of hairs. A dog’s hackles that stand up along their backs have a specialized muscle called arrector pili muscles that cause piloerection.

Piloerection is due to a reflexive trigger of the sympathetic nervous system—the fight or flight response. When the nervous system is triggered by an event, such as coming into contact with another animal, the sound of a doorbell, or strange noise in the middle of the night, the dog’s nervous system becomes activated to be on high alert. The arrector pili muscles contract around the hair follicles to make the hairs stand up and the dog appears larger and taller. This is a visual warning to other animals and threats that the dog is ready to fight and defend their territory, or assert their dominance.

Piloerection can happen in humans, too. Ever get a nervous, excited, or chilling feeling and goosebumps appear? Your sympathetic nervous system causes the tiny muscles in the skin to contract, raising the hair follicles which create the little goosebumps and your hairs to stand straight up. This is our sympathetic nervous system triggering us to get ready for a fight or flight response.

Dog Breeds With Pronounced Hackles

Dogs with longer hair can have a more pronounced effect when hackles are raised, especially when the hair may be longer around the neck region.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks look like their hackles are always raised, but this is just due to the growth of their hair in a forward motion along their backs.

Some dogs, such as Poodles or Poodle mixes (Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, Goldendoodle) have less pronounced hackles due to their curly coat. It can be hard to decipher any raising of the hair follicles from the normal hair around the arrector pili muscles.

Dogs With Raised Hackles: What Does It Mean?

Raised hackles in dogs mean they are on high alert. They could be having a response brought on by fear, dominance, surprise, insecurity, or uneasiness about a situation. The nervous system automatically causes piloerection along the neck and back. This is done automatically, and not under conscious control of the dog.

When you see raised hackles on a dog, be aware of what the trigger is. Sometimes it could be the ringing of the doorbell, other times it might be meeting a new dog or person.

Some younger dogs raise their hackles more often because they are still getting to know their environment and the world around them. Their sense of security might be a little less solid than an older dog who is more confident.

By having the hairs along their neck and back stand up, dogs appear taller and bigger to whatever threat they are reacting to. Dog hackles are more of a visual cue to their trigger that they are big, dominant, and ready to defend themselves if necessary.

Although rare, there have been a few reports of dog hackles being raised when they are not stimulated by an outside trigger. Dogs with neurologic diseases can have a “malfunction” of the autonomic nerves, and cause the arrector pili muscles to contract when not stimulated.

What if a Dog’s Hackles Are Up When Playing?

Sometimes dog hackles can be raised during times of play. Overstimulation, excitement, and surprise can cause piloerection. Watching to make sure the hackles go down, or that the dog isn’t showing other signs of aggression is key to having safe playtime.

What to Do If Your Dog Hackles are Raised?

Most of the time, pet parents don’t need to do anything in particular if they notice that a dog’s hackles are raised.

When new dogs are introduced to each other, or a dog is in a new environment, some pups will have their hackles raised. It’s similar to “stranger danger” mode until they sniff and get to know the other dog or environment they are in. They want to appear bigger and tougher, just in case they need to defend or fight for their territory.

Most of the time, once the sniffing and introductions have been made, the dog will relax and therefore their nervous system will, too. The arrector pili muscles will relax, and the hair will go back to their normal position.

If your dog’s hackles are raised for an extended period of time, or if they are barking, growling, in a rigid position, or not listening to your commands, it’s time to separate them from the inciting cause (other dogs, people, animals). This situation could escalate into aggression, which could be harmful to you or other people and pets.

Be careful when you intervene with a potentially aggressive situation, as you do not want to put yourself in harm’s way. By knowing your own dog’s cues for escalation, you can prevent potential problems.

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It doesn’t matter if the change is due to a new job, going back to school, divorce, or the end of a global pandemic. If your daily circumstance is changing, it’s likely your dog will feel the impact of it as well.

Do Dogs Get Lonely?

We like to think that our dogs are nonstop happiness on four paws, but the reality is that dogs experience a variety of emotions. Dogs have the same emotional complexity as human toddlers, which means that they are capable of happiness, sadness, jealousy, anger, and yes, loneliness.

Dogs evolved to be by our side, whether on the hunt, in the field, or by the fire, so it makes sense that they crave our companionship. Add to that the fact that we’re their sole providers of food, exercise, and access to the world, and it’s no wonder that our dogs have a drive to stay close to us.

Being left alone, especially when it’s something a dog hasn’t experienced in a while, can absolutely lead to a dog experiencing loneliness.

9 Signs of Loneliness in Dogs

The following behaviors are potential lonely dog symptoms that might manifest individually, or in a combination of behaviors. Some responses might be an indication of an underlying health problem, like skipping meals, so consider a veterinary check-up to rule out illness if you notice these signs.

General Depression

Believe it or not, dogs can suffer from depression. It’s likely that lonely dogs also feel depressed. The behaviors that indicate dog loneliness are closely related to depressive behaviors, like withdrawal and lethargy.

Pacing

If your dog paces or shows other signs of pre-departure stress as you prepare to leave the house, this could be a sign of isolation distress or separation anxiety.

Destructiveness

Dogs that are home alone might find ways to keep themselves occupied like chewing up pillows, shoes, and remotes.

Clinginess

You might find that your dog wants to be by your side more than usual, even waking up from a sound sleep to follow if you leave the room.

Change in Play Style

Lonely dogs might be less interested in playing the games they used to love.

Sleep Changes

Dogs that feel lonely might sleep more than usual, or might choose to sleep in unusual spots, like in a closet.

Not Eating

A lonely dog might not have an appetite and could even skip treats. Not eating can also be a sign of many medical conditions, so make sure to discuss this with your veterinarian if you notice it.

Vocalization

Dogs use their voice to communicate, and a lonely dog might bark, whine, or cry when left alone.

Overall Behavior Shifts

It can be challenging to characterize the exact changes in a dog experiencing loneliness other than the fact that they just seem different from the way they normally act.

How to Prevent Loneliness in Dogs

Pet parents who know that they have a major schedule shift on the horizon, like going back to the office after working from home for an extended period, can help their dogs adjust in a variety of ways.

Practice your new routine. Dog parents should help their canine companion prepare by practicing their upcoming schedule. Go through an abbreviated version of your typical departure routine (get dressed, pack a lunch, grab your bag) then leave the house for 30 minutes to an hour. Continue this preparation and departure process in the weeks prior to going back, gradually increasing the length of time you’re away from the house. Continue to throw a few short-duration departures as well to make it easy on your dog.

Keep your dog active. Increasing your pup’s exercise regime can help put a dent in dog loneliness as well, but it helps to be creative. Sure, your dog will probably welcome more walks, but engaging your dog’s brain can help tire him out and make being left alone less stressful.

Trick training and dog brain games like “hide the toy” will wear out your dog and can make alone time less fraught.

Try interactive toys. Invest in busy toys to give your dog when you have to leave him home alone. Hard rubber toys that can be stuffed with goodies are an excellent way to give your dog something to focus on while you’re gone. Give your dog an opportunity to practice with the toy while you’re home (this also ensures that your dog can’t destroy it and accidentally swallow pieces of the toy), then when it’s time to leave him alone pack the toy full of treats so that it’s tougher for your dog to get the goodies out and will keep him busier longer.

Consider a dog daycare. Some lonely dogs might benefit from going to a well-run dog daycare a few times per week, although this option isn’t a fit for every dog. Make sure that your dog enjoys the excitement of group play, and that the daycare is reputable.

Final Thoughts on Lonely Dog Syndrome

Do dogs need companions? While it might be tempting to add a second dog to your household to “cure” your dog’s loneliness, the success of this solution isn’t guaranteed. Adding a second dog requires an honest evaluation of your resident dog to determine if they’re a fit for a sibling (keep in mind that some dogs like being an “only child”) and if so, finding a buddy that’s the right fit for your household and lifestyle.

Finally, keep in mind that dogs exhibiting behaviors associated with loneliness might be suffering from an undiagnosed health issue, so scheduling a wellness check can help to rule out any more serious problems.

6 Products To Help Lonely Dogs

All featured products were chosen at the discretion of the Great Pet Care editorial team and not directly recommended or endorsed by the author of this article. Great Pet Care may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

One of the best cures for canine loneliness is spending time with your dog. Since pet parents generally can’t spend 24/7/365 with their dogs, loneliness can creep in. As long as you are giving your pooch focused attention along with physical and mental stimulation, you can help ward off feelings of anxiety or sadness. Keeping your dog occupied and his mind stimulated is key to helping him feel relaxed, at ease, and fulfilled. Here are six of our favorite products to bust boredom and keep canine loneliness at bay:

The Anxious Pet Relax & Roll Organic Hemp Oil

Dogs who become nervous or anxious, when separated from you, may benefit from this full-spectrum, organic hemp oil from The Anxious Pet. Relax & Roll is veterinary formulated by professionals at top institutions across the United States. Dosing is simple using the provided dropper that comes with each bottle. Dispense the recommended amount based on your dog’s weight and age.

Highlights

• Available in 400 mg or 800 mg active CBD
• Can be applied directly into your dog’s mouth or on their food
• Third-party tested to verify quality, potency, purity, and consistency
• Oils from the hemp plant stimulate your dog’s serotonin receptors to stabilize and improve his mood naturally
• Easy to digest
• Dosing made easy thanks to the precise mL dropper included with every bottle

Things to Consider

• Product best if titrated slowly to the desired dose as indicated on the package
• Must be stored away from heat, light, and humidity in a cool, dry place

Sample buyer review: “I discovered The Anxious Pet and thought I would give the hemp oil and calming chews a try. I was a bit skeptical at first, but I noticed a difference in my dog’s behavior immediately. He was much more relaxed and able to just be a dog without all of the worry that he was displaying previously. The combination of the oil and the chews allowed him to accept me leaving without undue stress.”

Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Mazee and Guru – Interactive Treat Dispensing Ball

A busy dog is a happy dog. Treat-dispensing toys and balls can sometimes be too easy, but the Orbee-Tuff keeps a dog busy and engaged for a while. Unlike other treat balls, this one has five openings to fill with your dog’s favorite snacks. If you are busy at home, fill the Orbee-Tuff and watch as your pup chews, sniffs, rolls, and plays to get the goodies out. The durable TPE material is soft on gums but withstands more vigorous chewers.

Highlights

• The material contains no BPA, lead, PVCs, or phthalates
• Made in the USA for peace of mind
• Mint-infused flavor to help keep your dog’s breath fresh as they play
• Floats on water and is bouncy so it can be used in water, on grass, or indoors
• Can be stuffed with everything from bully sticks to peanut butter, small treats to apples
• Five openings for extra-long play sessions

Things to Consider

• Because no toy is indestructible, supervise your dog while playing with the Orbee-Tuff
• Best to remove the ball from your dog after playing so he doesn’t try to tear it apart

Sample buyer review: “My dog has tons and tons of treat balls, and this is the one she seems to find the most engaging. If I fill several with the same type of reward, she goes for this one every time. Keeps her engaged for a while and is clearly fun for her. She’s a smart one, and the others bore her after 1-2 uses. Would highly recommend.”

Furbo Dog Camera With Treat Tossing Feature

You are at work or running errands but it’s impossible to check on your lonely dog, right? Times have changed thanks to the Furbo Dog Camera with its unique treat tossing feature. Livestream your dog’s activities via your phone while you are away or in another room. The 160-degree wide-angle and night vision ensures you’ll see what he’s doing at any time. Furbo’s barking sensor sends a push notification to your phone so you can check-in. The 2-way talk and treat-tossing features allow you to reward a very good boy while he hears your voice. The easy set-up is frustration-free in a home with a stable internet connection and a strong WiFi signal.

Highlights

• Furbo accepts up to 100 pieces of your dog’s favorite treats
• Barking alerts let you know if your dog is in distress or an intruder, fire, or another danger is present
• Event-triggered cloud recording lets you see what your dog did all day
• Selfie alert so Furbo can capture your dog’s face when he’s staring at the camera
• Person alert feature so you know when a human (dog walker, family member, intruder) enters the view
• Wide-angle view lets you place Furbo out of your dog’s reach

Things to Consider

• Treats used in the Furbo should be round-shaped with a diameter of around 0.4 inches
• Some pet parents complained about the low volume of the microphone
• Treat-dispensing sound is similar to a doorbell

Sample buyer review: “Great night vision, overly conscious motion alert, notifies for consistent barking, whining, someone breaking in, fires, AND IT SHOOTS DOG TREATS! Such a cute little app they have to offer you! Makes me feel super secure knowing I can see my little Lily Pup all safe and sound!”

RUNDA Snuffle Mat For Dogs

A snuffle mat engages a dog’s innate curiosity while keeping his mind and nose active. This enrichment toy slows down fast eaters, makes dogs work for their treats, and keeps their minds stimulated to keep the loneliness away. Dogs must forage and “hunt” for whatever goodies you place in the RUNDA Snuffle Mat. We like this brand for its longer, thicker fibers and higher edge so food and treats won’t easily fall out. It comes with two suction cups to easily affix it to the ground. The bottom is a non-slip cloth so dogs won’t easily move the mat out of place.

Highlights

• Encourages a dog’s foraging instincts to help channel their energy
• Generous 17-by-21-inch size suits small, medium, and large-sized dogs
• Can be machine or hand washed for easy cleanup
• Smart solution for dogs who like to dig or engage in destructive chewing behaviors
• Environmentally friendly fibers with a hair length of 2 inches
• Made of high quality, non-toxic, durable, and odorless material
• Feeds your dog’s belly and his brain with one simple solution

Things to Consider

• RUNDA recommends their snuffle mat is washed weekly
• A few reviews mentioned the suction cups did not stay in place on the floor

Sample buyer review: “Out of three different snuffle rugs we tried out, this is by far my favorite! It is softer, easier to clean, and much easier to hide snacks and food in. My pups LOVE it!”

LickiMat Classic Slow Feeders For Boredom and Anxiety

The LickiMat helps calm and soothe a dog’s anxiety and keep him occupied through licking. It’s recommended by veterinarians and trainers alike. If your dog is lonely or bored, simply apply a dog-friendly snack like a soft banana, yogurt, or peanut butter and watch your dog have fun. Perfect for crate training, fireworks diversion, during bath time (stick it to the bathtub), to combat boredom, and distract dogs while you are busy. Calming endorphins are released when your dog licks the mat, which leads to a happier pup.

Highlights

• Food settles into the mat’s grooves to dramatically prolong your dog’s enjoyment
• LickiMat is environmentally friendly without any silicone, BPA, PVCs, or phthalates
• Made for small and large dogs and dishwasher safe
• Slows down feeding to help prevent bloating in fast eaters and large breeds
• Keeps pets entertained so you feel less stressed
• Can be used with a large array of spreadable foods and treats including wet and raw foods and spreadable snacks
• Three surface patterns: squares, dots, and crosses for variety

Things to Consider

• For puppies or heavy chewers, the company recommends the LickiMat Tuff
• Consult your veterinarian for which human foods are suitable to spread on the LickiMat

Sample buyer review: “I mixed together a mashed banana, some plain yogurt, a couple of tablespoons of unsweetened peanut butter, and some pumpkin purée. I mixed it until it was like a light fluffy mashed potato texture. I spread it on the mat and then put it in the freezer for a bit as suggested. My dog loved it! It keeps her busy for about 20 to 30 minutes. It also helps to keep her focused on something so she’s not giving me that guilt-inducing face that she has perfected when I leave the house. It was well worth the money for that alone.”

Pet Acoustics Pet Tunes Bluetooth Speaker With Calming Canine Music

Help your dog feel calm and at ease with the soothing sounds of canine-specific music from the Pet Acoustics Pet Tunes Bluetooth Speaker. When your dog is home alone, the music will play continuously and wirelessly for up to eight hours on a full charge. Designed by composer and researcher Janet Marlow, Pet Tunes pairs to your personal library of songs using Bluetooth technology. The built-in repeat mode ensures it plays all day and comes pre-loaded with songs to soothe your dog’s worried mind.