Veterinarians share 11 ways you could be stressing out your dog without realizing

Sophia MitrokostasOct 14, 2020, 00:23 IST

Some common habits may cause your dog stress.Shutterstock

Everyday activities pet owners do may unknowingly cause their dogs stress.
Wearing sunglasses and hats around your dog can make them feel uneasy.
You should give your pet attention, but staring at them or hugging them too tightly can be stressful for dogs.

All good dog owners want the best for their pets, but some seemingly harmless habits and situations can actually make your dog feel stressed.

Fortunately, veterinary professionals know how to make your pets feel as comfortable as possible.

Read on to find out the 11 subtle ways you might be making your dog anxious and how to fix it, according to veterinarians.

Wearing sunglasses or hats can stress out your dog.

Sunglasses and hats obstruct your dog's view of your face. bruev/iStock

Dogs rely on their sense of smell and memory to navigate your home. The Washington Post/Getty Images

But you should still pay attention to your pup during playtime. Shutterstock

Make sure to hold your pets gently. Johannes Simon/Stringer/Getty Images

When driving with your furry friend, make sure to keep your car's radio volume low. Olena Serzhanova/Shutterstock

Dogs don't like to feel constricted. Sandy Huffaker / Stringer / Getty Images

Dogs are sensitive to more than just the sound of fireworks. Shutterstock

It's good to test how your dog tolerates a new food by feeding them a small portion first. Shutterstock

Exposing your dog to cigarette smoke may cause infections and cancer. Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for New York Fashion Week: The Shows

Make sure to pack your dog's food and toys for the road. Shutterstock

Dogs losing their hearing and eyesight are easier to startle. Shutterstock