Everyone wants their dog to be as happy as possible – however, a series of veterinarians recently revealed that there are a ton of things that owners do that can stress out their pooches without even realizing it.
From staring at them to hugging them too tightly, there are so many subtle interactions that may come across as loving to you, but are actually likely making your pup uncomfortable.
A group of animal experts discussed all the ways in which we can bring discomfort to our beloved pets to Insider, and it was certainly an eye-opener.
While it may seem like showering your canine with love is a positive thing, the vets warned against showing dogs too much attention.
A series of veterinarians recently revealed that there are a ton of things that owners do that can stress out their pooches without even realizing it (stock image)
In addition, they highlighted the negative impact that wearing sunglasses or hats around your dog could have on them, as well as playing loud music, dressing them in clothes, and changing up their diet.
Here’s all the things that you may not have realized are likely making your dog uncomfortable.
Dressing your dog up in clothes
While some owners love to dress their pooches up in cute outfits, veterinarian Jessica Kirk warned against it.
Others like to put their dogs in clothing to keep them warm or protected against the weather, but she said it often leaves them more uncomfortable than it does help them.
‘Many dogs don’t like wearing clothing, as it may feel unnatural or constricting to them,’ she explained. ‘Even items like jackets and snow booties may make them uncomfortable.’
In particular, she said you should always avoid clothing items that constrict their tails, prevent them from going to the bathroom, or has potential to overheat them.
While some owners love to dress their pooches up in cute outfits, veterinarian Jessica Kirk explained that it could make them feel ‘constricted’ and ‘uncomfortable’ (stock image)
Wearing sunglasses or hats around your pet
Vet Gerardo Perez-Camargo said that donning things like sunglasses or hats may also result in your pup becoming stressed out (stock image)
In addition, the things you wear can also make your dog uncomfortable, according to Gerardo Perez-Camargo, vice president of research and development at Freshpet.
He explained to Insider that donning things like sunglasses or hats may result in your pup becoming stressed out – since the 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 a dog uncertain of what is going on,’ he added.
If you do decided to wear sunglasses or hats around your pet, he suggested giving it a lot of praise to assure them that everything is OK.
Moving furniture around in your home
According to veterinarian Mary Gardner, making major changes in your living space can leave a dog feeling unhappy.
In particular, she explained that moving furniture around will likely confuse them, so she suggested only relocating one thing at a time.
‘Dogs use their memory and smell to get around the house. They have usually built a map of the space in their heads,’ she said.
‘Moving furniture around can cause them anxiety because they don’t know where things are.’
Staring at them for long periods of time
While it’s only natural to want to look at your beloved pet a lot, another animal doctor, named Sara Ochoa, told the outlet that you should avoid having too much eye contact with them.
She said that staring at your canine for long periods of time isn’t a good idea because they might think they ‘did something wrong.’
‘Dogs do not like to be constantly watched. Even if you’re staring at them because they’re acting cute, your dog will likely think that they’re doing something wrong,’ she revealed.
While it’s only natural to want to look at your beloved pet a lot, another animal doctor, named Sara Ochoa, said you should avoid having too much eye contact with them (stock image)
Hugging your dog too tightly
Everyone loves a good cuddle with their pup, however, Sara said another thing that might stress them out is when an owner hugs them too tightly.
‘Dogs like to snuggle, but they don’t like to be held very tightly. Feeling as if they cannot get free can be stressful for them,’ she explained.
When embracing your dog, she suggested giving them a little wiggle-room to avoid any negative feelings.
Petting your pup unexpectedly
Another no-go when it comes to touching your dog is petting them unexpectedly.
Mary explained that canines, especially ones who are losing their eyesight or hearing, may get startled if you start rubbing them without warning.
‘Even the sweetest dog can snap when someone pets them unexpectedly,’ she added.
Playing loud music
It’s no surprise that loud sounds like fireworks can upset animals, but did you know that playing loud music can also freak your dog out?
‘Loud noises can be very unpleasant for dogs’ sensitive ears, causing many of them to become stressed and uncomfortable,’ Jessica said.
She suggested not playing your tunes too loud 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.
Giving them new types of food
Just like some humans, dogs don’t necessarily like trying new things – so if you switch up their diet it might stress them out.
In addition, changing up the type of food you give them without easing into it can upset their stomach and cause a reaction like itchy skin, so Jessica said to beware of that.
‘A dog with an upset stomach or itchy skin issue due to a diet change will definitely be stressing from the inside out,’ she added.
‘Switching food or treats should be done gradually over a long stretch of time.’
Just like some humans, dogs don’t necessarily like trying new things – so if you switch up their diet it might stress them out (stock image)
Smoking near them
Another thing that can negatively impact your dog’s mindset is smoking too close to them.
Gerardo pointed out that dogs have a ‘very keen sense of smell’ so even if the smoke seems subtle to you, it can effect them greatly.
‘What may be a mild smell for us becomes a much stronger and unpleasant sensation for them,’ he stated.
Prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke can have many health effects in dogs and humans, like respiratory problems or even cancer.
Bringing your dog on a trip
It’s hard to be separated from your dog for long periods of time, and while the idea of bringing your pet on a trip seems nice at first, it can actually result in a great deal of stress for them.
‘For many dogs, traveling is stressful,’ warned Jessica. ‘They have to deal with new smells, new sights, and new environments. Just because you are there with them does not mean that your canine is not worried.’
If you do decided to bring your canine away with you, she suggested packing a load of its favorite toys and anything else that may make it more comfortable.
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