Do Dogs Have Emotions?
We humans are known for our plethora of emotions, but do dogs have feelings too?
Sadness
Dogs often feel sad and depressed for the same reasons that people do. This can include physical pain, the loss of a loved one or companion, trauma, and long-term stress. A change in their environment can also trigger periods of depression. This could be a house move or the addition of another pet to the family.
While depression doesn’t usually last long in dogs, if you notice them acting unusually or displaying the symptoms below, be sure to contact your vet. For example, if your dog isn’t as interested in playing games or eating, they might be feeling down. They may even start avoiding their usual social interactions with other people and pets.
Anger
There are some dog behaviors that can make your dog seem angry, but most dogs do not feel or express anger toward their humans. Rather, they might be feeling anxious or afraid. They may be looking to you for help. It is important to be patient with your dog if they are upset and to keep calm. This will help them to calm down and stop their aggression. If you see your dog acting aggressively then it is best to go straight to a vet and get them checked out. This is because the behavior can be a sign of rage syndrome or other medical condition.
Fear
Some dogs develop phobias, which are fear reactions that can be generalized to multiple situations. These are often the result of traumatic experiences or family tendencies. Typically, dog fears are related to loud noises, unfamiliar people, or separation anxiety. These can be difficult to overcome on their own but can be a rewarding challenge for dog owners who work with qualified trainers or behaviorists who use positive training methods.
Distress
Dogs can display distress signs such as raised hackles, lip-licking and yawning when they’re stressed or upset. This is because their stress hormone, cortisol, rises when they’re in unpleasant circumstances. This is why scolding or punishing your dog when he’s upset can make it worse. Instead, try to understand what’s going on and help him cope.
Categorised in: Dog Health, Pet Care