Countless pet owners across the globe have no doubt wished at one time or another that their animals could actually talk to them — to truly understand what their dog is feeling or trying to say. As devoted pet parents, we are always on the lookout for subtle cues or behavioural patterns to make sure our furry companions are in good health and feeling content.
Given that our dogs cannot literally speak to us, we must rely on other telltale signs to establish whether they are well and free from distress. That is precisely where spotting those small, subtle signals becomes so important. There are six key warning signs that may suggest your dog is feeling unsettled, and every pet owner should be aware of them.
Eyes
One of the most frequently seen gestures is when your dog keeps their head perfectly still but shifts their gaze to the side, revealing the whites of their eyes. This particular behaviour is commonly referred to as 'whale eye'. Helen Webb from pet supplement brand YuMOVE explains: 'Refusing to look away or to make eye contact is a reliable indicator of unease. When this is paired with squinting or rapid blinking, it could suggest emotional discomfort. Consistently furrowed brows could also point to anxiety rather than tiredness or hunger.'
Ears
If your dog's ears remain persistently tense and appear to be on high alert to everything going on around them, this could be a sign that they are struggling to relax and may be experiencing stress or anxiety. Ears pinned back or held stiffly can indicate unease.
Mouth
According to Helen Webb, lip licking, repeated yawning, and a tense, tight mouth are also strong indicators that underneath the surface, something could be wrong. 'If your dog is wrinkling their muzzle, it could also show that they are displaying fear or aggression.'
Posture and Position
Helen said: 'One of the most commonly misread signals is if your dog shakes off after engaging with you. Dogs physically shake their bodies to release stress or pent-up energy. Shaking can be paired with panting, intense staring or a frantic tail position to indicate stress or anxiety, while a tail tucked between the legs can signal fear.' A stiff, rigid stance is another telltale warning sign that all is not well. This can be further compounded by hair bristling along the back and neck, suggesting your dog feels the need to remain on edge or in a heightened state of alert. Hiding behind furniture, cowering, or physically backing away can highlight your dog's anxious disposition. On the opposite side, clinginess, shadowing and constant begging for attention can be just as clear an indicator of stress.
Whining, Growling and Barking
Helen said: 'If your dog begins frequently whining, growling and barking, it is important not to dismiss this simply as naughtiness or excitement, as all of these behaviours can point to genuine distress, especially if they feel sudden and out of character.' Catching these warning signs early can truly make all the difference, as stress in dogs does not just affect their temperament — it can lead to worsening behaviour and further health complications.
Poor Sleep
Dogs require 10 hours of rest each day. A calm, low-traffic sleeping area is vital to allow full physical stretching, enabling your dog to transition from light 'vigilant' rest into deep REM sleep, which supports memory processing and emotional regulation. Helen explains: 'If you find your dog is pacing, licking their lips, or seems restless often, they might be reaching their sensory limit. Give them a cosy, quiet spot with familiar toys or blankets to help them settle and rest. Sometimes all your pup needs is a good night's sleep to get them back to feeling themselves.' And of course, if you have any concerns about your pet's health or stress levels, please speak to your vet.
