One easy to miss sign of stress is when a dog quickly licks the end of their nose. not quite the same as licking their lips after a good meal. It is very quick and may or may not be repeated depending on the level of stress involved. Quite often a dog that is being held too tightly or allowed no movement at all will become stressed in this way. Giving them a bit of "space" will usually help.

If a dog is leaving sweaty paw prints or the bottom of the feet are wet and there is no reason for it the dog is stressed. Again, attempt to determine what is bothering the dog and try to alleviate it.

Do not use the human method for comforting a dog (do not "baby" your dog). We often hear people attempt to calm the dog like they would a baby by cooing, petting and saying things like, "it's okay". This has the opposite effect. The dog will sense something wrong by your voice and feel further stress, the need to defend you or himself. This can lead to a fight or flight desire in the future with similar situations. Instead exercise leadership, confidence and guidance. In "this situation" if the dog should sit for example then provide and enforce the command. If the dog is lunging or barking then issue a heel command and walk away from the situation. Usually, a short quick tug (sideways, to knock the dog a bit off balance) is enough to get the dog's attention so you can move on your way. Place yourself, leg, body or object between the upset and the dog.

Stress in puppies should be as minimal as possible - especially between the 4-12 month age (where traumatic experiences can leave a lasting impression). Introduce the puppy to as many sights, sounds and situations at an early stage. Do this in baby steps so the dog has a chance to absorb all the new sights and sounds. Protect the pup and keep an aire of confidence and leadership in these situations.

Understanding and observing dogs and puppies in many situations can help anyone learn what the dog is thinking and trying to say once you know what to watch for. For example, when puppies or dogs are playing very rambunctiously an older dog may try to walk between them to "break it up" and calm the puppies down a bit. A low growl can sometimes be heard especially if the puppies are jumping up on the back of the older dog.

Turning of the head from side to side, walking slowly (commonly seen when a stressed human is calling frantically to the dog to come and the dog slinks forward), sneezing, full body shake (like when their wet), are all signs that the dog sees stress in you or in a situation and is attempting to shake off the stress. He is telling you to relax.

Avoid tightening up on the leash raising the front of the dog onto his toes - this is an aggressive stance and could cause your dog to be attacked. Direct eye contact, coming straight on, and of course making one appear larger are all signs of domination or aggression. I'm ready to fight. Making our dogs greet other dogs they way people do could lead to a fight. This is especially true where you have the younger dog. Either keep your dog away from other dogs and place them in a sit or heel away from the other dogs or allow your dog enough lead so they can make all the appropriate body motions befitting his age and the attitude and age of the approaching dog. If the dog wants to do a play bow and the lead is held tight preventing this gesture you have caused your dog a great disservice.

Stroking the ears from base to tip can have a calming effect. For more info check out TTOUCH.

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