Golden Retrievers are, for the most part, an easy-going breed. It’s why they make such great family dogs. But no matter how easy-going they are, all dogs become nervous or stressed at some point. It could be a thunder storm, a bath or a car ride. Regardless of what triggers them, how you deal with your Golden when they are stressed will have a huge impact on if your dog can get over their fears. But, in order do that, you have to first know when they are feeling this way. The following are 5 signs your Golden Retriever is stressed.
#1 – Whining
If your Golden is stressed, he may whine. Usually the whining is paired with pacing if the stressor is something like thunder that your dog can’t get away from. Otherwise, he may be sitting and whining for what seems like no reason. If your Golden is not whining because he needs to go potty or is in pain, it’s probably stress. (Of course, pain causes stress, so stress can still be present in that case.)
#2 – Tucked Tail
That big bushy tail is great for letting you know what kind of mood your Golden Retriever is in. When stressed, your Golden may tuck her tail completely under, often clamping the base down hard. She may also hunch her body over and even try to cower or hide.
#3 – Lip Licking
Your Golden may lip lick and yawn when he is stressed. It’s usually a slower lip lick than when they are tasting something good. It can also look like a “flick,” where the tongue comes out and goes back in without actually licking their lips.
#4 – Taking Treats Hard
If you train using positive reinforcement (or just happen to be feeding him) and your Golden Retriever is taking the food harder than he normally does, this is a sign of stress. You may even get bit by accident as your dog takes his nervous tension out on the food. This is a definite sign you need to change the environment.
#5 – Whale Eye
This is something most dogs will do when stressed. “Whale eye” is when your Golden’s eyes bulge and the white around the iris is visible. This is a clear indicator that your Golden Retriever is stressed or anxious.
