Behavioral stress

Behavioral stress in dogs refers to the observable and physiological signs an animal shows when it perceives a situation as threatening, unfamiliar or beyond its control.

Common indicators include panting without exertion, lip licking, yawning, pacing, trembling, whining, a tucked tail, flattened ears, avoidance and refusal of food or treats. Internally, stress activates the sympathetic nervous system and raises circulating cortisol, which is why researchers often pair behavior scoring with heart rate, heart rate variability and salivary or blood cortisol. Triggers range from veterinary visits, thunderstorms and fireworks to separation, travel and changes in the household.

Veterinarians and veterinary behaviorists assess stress through owner questionnaires, direct observation and, when needed, a physical workup to rule out pain or illness that can mimic anxiety. Cannabidiol has been evaluated in dogs using these cortisol, heart-rate and behavior measures, and reported effects vary depending on the endpoint and the stressor studied.