This can be a physical manifestation of fear, anxiety, or distress. One common sign of trauma in dogs is shaking or trembling. It’s essential to observe and understand a dog’s usual behavior and recognize any significant shifts, such as a sudden disinterest in play, as potential signs of trauma. This change in behavior can be a result of emotional distress or discomfort. Dogs that have experienced trauma may exhibit a lack of enthusiasm for activities they once enjoyed. Loss of Interest in PlayĪ loss of interest in play can be another indicator of trauma in dogs. It’s important to pay attention to changes in a dog’s grooming habits, as excessive licking or chewing can indicate underlying emotional or physical issues. This behavior may be a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety.ĭogs may excessively lick or chew on themselves as a way to self-soothe when they are feeling distressed. Excessive Licking or ChewingĮxcessive licking or chewing can also be a sign of trauma in dogs. Signs of unprovoked aggression, especially towards people or other animals, should be taken seriously and addressed with care.Īccording to a case shared by a dog owner, the dog exhibited unprovoked aggression and unpredictable attacks, which are common signs of trauma. This behavior can be concerning and may indicate that the dog is experiencing distress or discomfort. When a dog displays unexplained aggression, it can be a sign of trauma. These changes in sleep patterns can be indicative of the emotional impact of trauma on dogs. Dogs may experience difficulty falling asleep, frequently waking during the night, or even exhibit signs of insomnia.Ĭonversely, some dogs may also display an increased need for sleep as a coping mechanism for dealing with the effects of trauma. Trauma can also lead to changes in a dog’s sleep patterns. This can manifest as reluctance or refusal to enter certain rooms, go for walks in particular areas, or interact with specific individuals.Īvoidance behavior is a common response to trauma in dogs and can be an indicator of underlying distress. Avoidance of Certain Places or Peopleĭogs that have experienced trauma may exhibit avoidance behavior towards specific places or people associated with the traumatic event. It’s important to note that hypervigilance can be a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in dogs, just as it is in humans. Signs of hypervigilance in dogs may include excessive barking, restlessness, and being easily startled. This can be a common sign of trauma in dogs. When a dog is hypervigilant, it means they are constantly on high alert, scanning their environment for potential threats. Trauma can lead to a loss of appetite or conversely, an increase in eating as a form of comfort-seeking behavior.Ī traumatized dog may lose interest in food and treats, which can lead to weight loss and other health issues.Ĭonversely, some dogs may seek solace in food as a way to cope with their emotional distress, resulting in excessive eating or weight gain.

Appetite AlterationsĪppetite alterations can be a significant indication of a dog’s emotional state. Trauma can lead to a heightened state of anxiety, which may cause the dog to react more strongly to stimuli that previously did not bother them.įor example, a normally friendly dog may become more hesitant or even aggressive towards strangers or other animals.Īdditionally, they may exhibit avoidance behaviors such as trying to escape or hide when confronted with triggers that remind them of the traumatic event. Behavioral Changesīehavioral changes in dogs can be quite varied and may include increased fearfulness, excessive barking, pacing, or destructive behavior. This behavior can be a clear indicator that the dog is feeling anxious or distressed and is seeking comfort and support. On the other hand, clinginess may manifest as the dog constantly seeking physical closeness or reassurance from their human companions. Hiding can be a way for the dog to seek a sense of safety and security, especially if they have encountered a frightening or distressing event. When a dog experiences trauma, they may exhibit hiding or clinginess as a coping mechanism. Here are some of the most common signs of trauma in dogs: 1. Signs of trauma in dogs include chronic anxiety, hypervigilance, avoidance of certain people, places, or situations, sleep disturbances, fear of being alone, decreased interest in a favorite activity, aggression, hiding, shaking or trembling, and unwarranted stress reactions.

Signs of head trauma in small dogs