9 Common Chihuahua Stress Symptoms

If you’re a busy owner, it’s easy to forget about your Chihuahua, this is why this post is aimed at explaining Chihuahua stress symptoms.

However, if your Chihuahua has been acting strangely, or you’re worried about her health, it’s important to take note of the symptoms listed below.

By recognizing these signs in your chihuahua or other smaller breed dog, you can quickly get help from the vet and prevent any serious problems from occurring!

The following are some common Chihuahua stress symptoms:

Table of Contents show

Excessive barking

Barking is a commonly exhibited behavior in Chihuahuas. It is usually a sign of excitement or stress, and should not be tolerated.

Excessive barking can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, including anxiety, separation anxiety, and aggression.

If left unchecked, excessive barking can lead to territorial disputes with other animals, and ultimately, the destruction of property.

If you are noticing your Chihuahua barking excessively, it is important to seek out a veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.

In the meantime, you can try to address the underlying causes of the barking by providing your pet with appropriate stimulation, such as playing with toys and providing adequate exercise.

If your dog is barking excessively, you may be experiencing one of the following stress symptoms:

Separation anxiety.
Boredom.

Fear or pain in your pet’s life (for example, if they’ve just been sick and are recovering).

Read more: Understanding The 7 Reasons For Chihuahua Whining.

Scratching

Scratching is a common symptom of anxiety in Chihuahuas. It’s also one of the best ways to tell if your dog has something on its mind.

If you notice that your Chihuahua is scratching its skin excessively or if you find scabs on its body.

This could be an indication that your pup has fleas or parasites (especially if they’re constantly trying to remove those things).

Flea bites can lead to anemia and ear infections; parasites like hookworms and tapeworms can cause lethargy and vomiting, which are both signs of stress in dogs.

Read more: 9 Common Reasons Why Chihuahuas Bite.

Pacing

Pacing is one of the most common stress symptoms in Chihuahuas. It’s also one that can be easily dismissed as a sign of boredom or anxiety.

But if your dog is pacing for an extended period of time, it may be time to take them to the vet.

Pacing can be caused by several factors: anxiety and stress; boredom; pain; or even just plain old annoyance at being confined in your home with nothing to do but pace around while you’re trying to work on important things like watching TV shows or making dinner (if you have kids).

The key here is finding out what’s going on so that you can help relieve any underlying problems and prevent future episodes from happening again!

No appetite

Keep in mind that if your Chihuahua is not eating, it could be because of stress.

If your Chihuahua is not eating and you have noticed any other symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, take them to the vet right away!

If your dog has an appetite but is refusing food at times (called “anorexia”), this could also be a sign of stress in their life.

Licking lips and yawning

Licking lips and yawning are both signs of nervousness.

If your dog is licking his lips or yawning frequently, he may be feeling anxious about something.

You can tell when it’s time to get help by seeking out a veterinary professional who specializes in treating animals with anxiety disorders.

Fading out of focus

If your Chihuahua seems to be losing its focus, it could be suffering from some stress symptoms.

Chihuahuas have a short attention span and they can be easily distracted by new stimuli.

They may get overwhelmed by too much activity or noise in the house, which causes them to become stressed out.

They also can get bored easily because they’re so small—so if you have a lot going on around your home (like people coming over).

Then this might not be the best time for your pet to hang out with you!

Unhappy expression

The Chihuahua is a very expressive breed, and its expression can tell you whether it’s stressed or not.

If you notice your dog showing signs of unhappiness, take it to the vet right away to make sure that there isn’t anything physically wrong with them.

Shaking

Chihuahua shaking may be a sign of stress, pain, or anxiety.

It can also be caused by medical problems such as liver disease and kidney failure; physical exertion; low body temperature (hypothermia); or even something as simple as being sick.

When it comes to Shaking, Chihuahuas are no strangers. In fact, this is a common symptom of stress in these tiny dogs.

Chihuahuas are often small and cute, but they can be fiercely independent and quick to react to stress.

When they’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, they may shake their bodies and heads violently.

This shaking can be so intense that it can cause serious damage to furniture or other objects around them. In some cases, it can even lead to seizures or death.

If you notice that your Chihuahua is shaking frequently and it’s causing any physical damage, it will be nice to visit a qualified veterinarian.

Dilated pupils

When your Chihuahua has a dilated pupil, it’s possible that your Chihuahua is stressed.

Dilated pupils are the black part of the eye and are often referred to as “pupils.”

If you notice that your dog’s pupil has become larger than normal, this could signal that they’re feeling stressed or anxious.

A common cause of dilated pupils in dogs is during sexual excitement (when they’re aroused).

It can also be caused by head injuries or other traumatic events; however, it can also occur randomly at any time during life—even when you’re not around!

Read more: Can Chihuahuas Be Left Alone (7 Helpful Tips).

Ways to help a stressed Chihuahua

The following are some common ways to help a stressed Chihuahua:

Get them plenty of exercises: A tired Chihuahua is a happy Chihuahua. A tired Chihuahua is less likely to become stressed.

Provide them with a comfortable place to sleep: A Chihuahua that is comfortable is less likely to become stressed.
Give them plenty of love and attention: A Chihuahua that is loved, and given attention is less likely to become stressed.
Provide them with toys and stimulating activities: Toys and activities that are stimulating will help keep a Chihuahua entertained and stress-free.

Provide them with food that is healthy and nutritious: A Chihuahua that eats healthy food is less likely to become stressed.
Give them opportunities to socialize: Socializing will help keep a Chihuahua happy and stress-free.
Provide them with training and education: Training and education will help prevent stress in Chihuahuas.

Read more: Understanding Chihuahua Separation Anxiety: Signs, Causes & More.