Since our dogs don’t speak like we do, it can sometimes be hard to tell how your Maltese is feeling. This is exacerbated by the fact that we constantly want to interpret things they do in human terms. An excellent example of this is the “guilty” face we so often say dogs have. The problem with this is that guilt is a human emotion. It involves knowing the difference between right and wrong in human terms, not doggy ones. The same goes for being able to tell when your dog is nervous or not. A lot of signs for stress can easy be overlooked or accidentally misunderstood. The following are five signs your Maltese is stressed that every owner should know.
#1 – Whale Eye
“Whale eye” is when the white in your dog’s eye – around the iris – is visible. Sometimes, the eye may actually bulge out if your Maltese is very stressed.
#2 – Shaking
Many small breed dogs will shake if they are stressed. Barring cold temperatures, if your Maltese is shivering, she is probably scared of something.
#3 – Lip Licking
Lip licking is a common sign of stress. Your Maltese may lip lick and yawn. 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 – Whining
A stressed Maltese will often whine. Some will pace, and some will stay in one spot. If your dog is whining and you know he doesn’t have to go outside to go potty, he may be stressed.
#5 – Cowering
Maltese who are stressed will often try and find a place to hide. They may cower behind your feet with their body hunched over or try to hide under furniture. Some may even duck under their owner’s arm if they are being held.
