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How Dogs Detect and Respond to Human Stress

For years, humans have wondered if their dogs and other pets can detect stress. If your dog has ever tried to comfort you when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, you may have your answer.

Dogs are much more aware than we give them credit for. They’re in tune with our emotions and feelings, offering support and comfort when we need it most. This article discusses how dogs can detect human stress and provides some tips on how you can help combat stress in your dog.

Can Dogs Detect Stress?

Yes! Recent studies show that not only can dogs detect human stress through smell, but it can also have a negative impact on their emotions. This may lead to making more pessimistic decisions than normal.

Ultimately, this shows that human stress, no matter how slight, is contagious and has a powerful impact on our canine companions.

Yes, Dogs Detect Stress: Here’s How to Help

Now that we know dogs can detect human stress, it’s important to have a few tools and tricks you can use to help ease their stress.

Use a Crate

Crate training is highly effective for many reasons, one being that it provides a safe space for a dog to relax and unwind. The crate should be a safe haven for your dog whenever he needs time alone.

Exercise Often

Dogs require daily exercise to live happy, fulfilling lives. If your dog isn’t getting enough daily exercise, their stress levels may be higher than normal. Exercise burns off excess energy, which can manifest into feelings of anxiety if not used up. Ensure your dog is getting 30 minutes of exercise every day to reduce stress and anxiety. 

Toys & Stimulation

Just as humans do, dogs require mental stimulation through games, toys, and chews to use their brains in different ways. Mental stimulation is like cognitive exercise and encourages your dog to build new skills while fighting off stress, and reducing age-related cognitive decline. 

Use Supplements

Get Joy’s Calm+ Supplement helps to support a relaxed and peaceful canine state of mind by using natural calming ingredients like chamomile to reduce stress. Calm+ supports emotional well-being so you can experience a happier dog, no matter where you are or what you’re doing. 

Elevate Canine Care with Get Joy

Taking the necessary steps to ease your own stress can have a wonderful impact on your dog’s overall health and happiness. Get Joy understands the importance of meeting your dog’s needs with the most high-quality products possible. That’s why we offer fresh Meals and Treats and optimal health and wellness Supplements!


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