I’m a dog expert – why pets are acting strangely and it’s not the heat

Some pet owners may have noticed their dogs are pacing more than usual this summer. While heat can certainly affect dogs, this particular behaviour often signals something deeper and more emotional. A leading canine expert urges that understanding the root cause is crucial for ensuring your dog’s comfort and well-being during the warmer months. 

Kate Stead, owner of Park House Luxury Dog Boarding in North Yorkshire, spoke to Green Pantry and revealed that owners preparing to go on holiday could be a cause for this sudden anxious behaviour. She said: “Dogs are incredibly intuitive; they can pick up on subtle changes in our behaviour, mood, and routines.”

“When you get out your suitcase to start packing, it may be exciting for you, but the association your pet makes with the suitcase is that you will likely soon be leaving them,” she explained. “This can cause anxiety and trigger a stress response.”

Why your dogs may be anxious

Dogs may feel anxious before you go on holiday for a number of reasons, but the most common is separation anxiety.

Dogs form strong emotional bonds with their owners, and being left alone for an extended period can trigger stress and emotional discomfort.

Kate shared: “Separation anxiety is most common in puppies and dogs under the age of five; however, it can still affect dogs of all ages. They can also be affected by changes in routine, whether that is them living elsewhere while you are away or them getting used to new people in their homes.

Symptoms of anxiety in dogs

1. A loss of appetite
2. Excessive licking, chewing, or other repetitive behaviours
3. Panting or drooling
4. Increased barking and whining
5. Trembling and shaking
6. Constipation or diarrhoea

How to relieve anxiety before your trip

The expert says that when you are preparing for your holiday, you should avoid packing your suitcase in front of your dog. Consider dropping your dog off at its boarding location or with its carer before you begin packing.

Kate also recommends packing gradually rather than all at once, which can also make the process less alarming. Next, the expert suggests practising short departures before your holiday.

“Do this by putting on your shoes, grabbing your keys, but don’t actually leave the house. Follow this by leaving for short periods of time, allowing your dog to understand that you will be coming back,” said Kate. 

Saying goodbye to your pet can be emotional, but this can trigger anxiety in your pooch. To ease the parting, try to keep farewells brief and calm whenever possible. A quick, gentle goodbye can help reduce your pet’s anxiety.

The expert’s last tip is to carefully review your options for dog retreats, dog boarding, and dog sitters.

“Choosing the right person or boarding/retreat facility for your dog while you’re away can significantly reduce the negative associations that fuel separation anxiety.

“In fact, with the right environment, many dogs not only adjust but come to enjoy the experience, embracing new surroundings as they engage in new activities, different surroundings and sometimes make new (human and doggy) friends.”