Dog Psychology: Stress Signals Guide

Calming Signals (Early Stress)

  • Yawning (when not tired)
  • Lip licking
  • Looking away
  • Sudden ground sniffing

Stress Indicators

  • Whale eye (white visible)
  • Tail tucked
  • Ears flat back
  • Excessive panting (not hot)

High Stress

  • Trembling
  • Refusing food
  • Continuous vocalization

Hotel Stressors

  • Unknown smells
  • Unfamiliar people
  • Different schedule

Reducing Hotel Stress

  • Practice separation at home
  • Familiar scent items
  • Confident drop-off (no long goodbye)