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The

Pomeranian

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Center

Pomeranians and Emotional Stress

Overview

Dogs can become emotionally stressed due to a range of situations and events. The signs of stress are sometimes surprising and can be misinterpreted as other issues. Since feeling stressed lowers quality of life and can lead to health issues, this is something that should be recognized and addressed. Fortunately, there are lots of methods to help create a more relaxed atmosphere and a variety of remedies to help reduce a dog’s stress levels.

This article covers how to know if your Pomeranian is feeling stressed, top triggers, issues that chronic stress can lead to, and 20 steps you can take right now to help your Pom feel better.

Signs That a Pomeranian is Stressed

Stress is often well hidden until it builds up to a point that it’s become a moderate to severe issue. Signs to look for include one or more of the following:

Yawning (these will be more pronounced than typical ‘sleepy’ yawns)
Restlessness
Trouble sleeping
Changes in appetite
Changes in bowel movements
Self-licking or chewing
Increased chewing of toys or non-toy objects
Increased whining or barking
Pacing
Lethargy
Loss of interest
Increase in housebreaking accidents
Poor coat health (may be seen in severe, chronic in severe cases)
Changes in the eyes (dilated pupils, rapid blinking; may be seen in severe, acute cases)
Body rolls/shaking (similar to how a dog shakes when drying themselves off, may be seen in severe acute or chronic cases)
Changes in personality (acting ‘off’ to what is considered normal, i.e. a calm dog becoming antsy or an active dog becoming subdued)

Triggers that Can Raise Stress Levels

Things that can cause a Pomeranian to become stressed include:

Physical neglect
Harsh discipline
Mishandling or teasing
Changes in schedule (even if you perceive these to be positive ones)
Moving to a new home
The loss of a family member (human or animal)
The addition of a family member (human or animal)
Decreased interaction with other dogs or pets (fewer playdates, less time at doggy daycare, etc.)
Decreased interaction with human family members
Decreased interaction with other beloved humans (groomer retires, favorite neighbor moves away, etc.)
Being home alone or increased time home alone
Repeated exposure to loud noises (blaring TVs, loud radios, constant sirens, etc.)
Repeated exposure to verbal upheaval (yelling or arguments in the household)
Repeated exposure to a chaotic environment (no area to retreat from boisterous youngsters, foot traffic near eating area, etc.)
Chronic exposure to human family members that are worried, stressed, or anxious themselves (exclusions are service dogs trained to offer long-term emotional support)
Decrease in time spent outdoors and/or exercising

The Health Consequences of Long-term Stress with Dogs

You may know that long-term stress has a very negative effect on a human’s health, but what about dogs? Their bodies react in a similar way. Acute and chronic stress cause different reactions. With acute stress (a passing thunder storm, etc.), there is a temporary increase in blood pressure and heart rate.

But with chronic stress, there is a much more complex reaction. Several hormones are produced in excess including cortisol, corticosterone, and glucocorticoids. In turn, this leads to a number of issues. The most serious is a weakened immune system (the body has trouble fighting off infection or disease). And dogs that already suffer from health issues can have issues healing or recovering.

Though more studies need to be done, some show a link between dogs with chronic stress and shortened life spans. There is also an increase in skin-related disorders and a possible link to gastric ulcers and bone loss.

And, of course, another aspect to consider is quality of life; dogs that are consistently stressed are not able to relax and cannot enjoy life as they would otherwise.

How Stress Can Easily Spread from Pet Parents to Their Dogs

There are studies that prove dogs mirror their owner’s stress. One study conducted by researchers at Linkoping University, measured levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) in both humans and their dogs. The results showed that stress is an ‘emotional contagion’ that is very easily spread. And an interesting aspect of this is that a dog’s personality did not play a role; in other words, stress mirroring was the same regardless of whether a dog was considered shy or outgoing.

There are a number of ways that stress can spread from pet parents to their dogs. Certainly, direct vocalizations can play a part (talking to your Pomeranian in an agitated way or using a stressed tone of voice, etc.). However, canines are excellent at reading non-verbal cues. Everything from your facial expression to your eye movements to your body stance can send out messages about how you’re feeling.

In addition, the overall atmosphere in households can have a huge effect on dogs. This includes interactions between family members, noise level, number of visitors, lack of personal space, and more.

20 Helpful Ways to Help a Pomeranian De-stress

If you’re identified that your Pomeranian may be emotionally stressed and you want to make some changes, the good news is that there are a lot of remedies to help a Pom feel better, calmer, and happier. With many of these, you can start today. Let's take a look.

#1 Monitor noise levels

Loud noise can both cause stress and exacerbate existing stress. Keep the TV and/or music at moderate levels. Close windows if there is ongoing outside noise (construction, etc.). Have a helper keep your Pom distanced if you need to use the vacuum, blender, or other loud household appliance.

#2 Be aware of voice volume and tone

Yelling, arguing, and general discord can cause everyone in the household to become stressed, including pets. If household members tend to raise their voices in anger, take your Pom and create distance, if possible.

Quieter yet worrying conversations, such as continually discussing work or money problems, can create a tense vibe that dogs pick up on; if you have lots of these types of discussions, try to keep your Pom distanced and/or distracted.

#3 Create an eating and drinking oasis

Dogs should be able to eat and drink with zero inference, which means no one chatting nearby, no foot traffic, no other pets eating close by, and no disrupting noises. Even if your Pom is used to eating near other pets, this should be adjusted if they are suffering from stress.

Choose a quiet corner of the kitchen (or close room, such as a sunroom or pantry) for your Pom’s bowls, with clear household rules that anytime your Pom is there, they should not be disturbed.

#4 Supervise young children

If there are youngsters at home, or they come to visit, supervise at all times. Children should be taught proper handling techniques based on their age (no picking up, holding only while sitting, or holding with two hands and close to the body while supervised). There should be zero teasing (tail pulling, etc.). A Pom should have the option to retreat from this type of interaction any time they wish (see tip #6, ahead).

#5 Maintain a daily schedule

Dogs feel more secure when certain things happen as expected. So, if a Pomeranian doesn’t have a schedule or their normal routine is thrown off, it can make them feel unsure and unsafe. The most important aspects to have on the schedule are meals and exercise. Aside from this, some things to consider adding on include grooming (baths, brushing, teeth cleaning, etc.), command training, playing together, and a ‘lights are dimmed’ period to signal it’s almost bedtime.

#6 Provide a retreat area

Having a comfortable spot to retreat to can offer a stressed dog a chance to pause and reset and to steer clear of stressors (loud children, visitors, etc.). The area should be in a quiet corner of common room (living room, family room, etc.) that is not isolated.

If your Pom spends time home alone, or is not yet house trained, it can help to use a canine playpen like the IRIS Pet Playpen with a Door to create the space.

And the focal point of all retreat areas should be the bed, to provide support, comfort, warmth, and a sense of security. Though any quality dog bed with memory foam will work, there are also beds specifically designed to alleviate anxiety, such as the Best Friends Calming Donut Cuddler. And a few favorite toys (see tips #7, #8 and #9) should be within reach.

#7 Chew toys

Dogs often instinctually chew on things when stressed; it’s a method of physically venting pent-up emotions and the act of chewing is thought to help lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone).

This sort of self-soothing method is great, unless a Pom is chewing on subpar toys that fall apart or non-toy objects. So, if you’re looking to provide some good chew toys, the Nylabone Flavor Frenzy Power Chew is a top choice; the size 'extra small/petite' is designed for small dogs that are extreme chewers, it's made in the U.S. and there are 3 flavor options to keep a dog interested: Beef Jerkey, Philly Cheesesteak, and Bacon, Egg & Cheese.

And another toy that we’ve been getting lots of awesome feedback on is the Nylabone DuraChew Cheese Bone which looks like a small block of cheese. Offer this as is, or add peanut butter or a cheese spread.

#8 Boredom-busting toys

Boredom is another element that can both cause stress and exacerbate existing stress. But, if a dog can stay busy and distracted, this can help alleviate things.

There are several ways to keep a Pom happily occupied. One is with a snuffle mat. These are typically made of fabric, with lots of fleece flaps. Treats are sprinkled throughout it, and then a dog’s ‘job’ is to use their foraging skills to sniff them out. It’s an awesome distraction and offers automatic rewards. For Pomeranians, we love the Pet Snuffle Mat by IFOYO; this colorful and cute flower design has straps to help prevent it from sliding, it’s easy to store, and it’s machine washable.

Another option is an interactive toy that responds to a dog when it’s played with. For example, the Pet Qwerks Blinky Babble Ball has lights that flash and silly sounds when it’s nosed or pawed.

#9 Companion toy

This sort of stress-relieving toy is ideal for Pomeranians that are suffering from separation anxiety, have trouble sleeping alone, or otherwise could benefit from a soothing companion when you can’t be right by their side.

There is no competition in this category; the SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Toy is the absolute best. It is a durable, good-sized, machine washable stuffed toy dog (with color options) that has a calming rhythmic heartbeat and (optional) comforting body warmth to come as close as possible to a living friend.

#10 Help for missing and mourning

Dogs can become very stressed if they are missing a favorite person, doggie playmate, or other friend. For permanent losses, it’s important to allow a period of mourning, with lots of hugs and extra attention. After a time, typically 2 weeks or so, it can then help to provide new, invigorating experiences with changes in scenery, scents, and stimuli.

This may be a walk along a shoreline, a forested ‘easy’ hike path, a lakeside park, or other area. If your Pomeranian appears to perk up during or afterward, try to make these outings part of their regular daily or weekly routine.

#11 Classical music

It’s long been known that music can evoke emotional responses, but now there is proof that classical music has a calming effect on dogs and can reduce stress, with lower heart rates, better sleep, and less barking.

There are many radio stations and streaming apps that play different types of classical music and you may want to check out the album by Joshua Leeds Lisa Spector called Through A Dog's Ear: Vol 1, Music To Calm Your Canine Companion which is available as streaming, a CD, or an MP3.

#12 Daily exercise

You probably already know the importance of regular exercise for a dog’s physical health (it benefits the heart, muscles, metabolism, digestion, immune system and more), but it’s also vital for a dog’s emotional health. Exercise helps a dog burn off nervous energy, offers a focal point for their canine senses, and is a great distraction. Regular exercise can help an agitated dog calm down, a depressed dog perk up, and helps all dogs sleep better.

Ideally, Pomeranians should have a minimum of 2 daily 20-minute exercise sessions. Brisk walks are great for most Poms and games of fetch with something like Zanies Mini Tennis Balls for Dogs can be lots of fun for both of you.

#13 Ear rubs

There’s a reason why your Pomeranian likes to be scratched or massaged on their ears; they contain a condensed network of nerves that, when rubbed, sends strong signals to the brain to release endorphins (feel-good chemicals). So, extended ear rubs (10 minutes or so) can help reduce stress and make your Pomeranian feel better.

There’s no ‘wrong’ way to rub a dog’s ears, but try using both hands (one per ear) to start at the base, using circular motions to work up the ear to the tip, and then back down again. You can signal the end of the session with a forehead rub.

Since it’s been long-proven that petting dogs reduces stress in humans, you’ll benefit from these sessions as well.

#14 Large-muscle kneaded massage

Dogs, just like people, can tense up their bodies in reaction to feeling stressed, which can be carried long-term. Most dogs hold stress in this way in the middle gluteal and bicep femoris muscles (upper thighs) and the upper and lower trapezius (upper shoulders).

To loosen those muscles, and in turn help a Pom relax, aim for 10-minute daily sessions. Work on one area at a time. You can massage with both hands or use one to support your Pom and the other to massage. Start off with a light touch until you get a sense of your Pom’s preference. Use two fingers (thumb and pointer or pointer and middle) to knead the muscles in circular patterns, working up and then back down again.

You may wish to do this in conjunction with calming music (see earlier tip #11) and/or aromatherapy (ahead, tip #16).

#15 Brushing sessions

Some Poms love to be brushed, others not so much. If you use a brush that reaches down through this breed’s thick coat, to reach the skin, it can an enjoyable stress-reducer. And, of course, you’ll reap all the benefits of brushing your Pomeranian including keeping the coat free of dead hairs (which can block air flow and cause odors), stimulate hair follicles for better hair growth, and reduce matting.

For puppies, a soft boar bristle brush can work well. And for adult Poms with their full double-coats, a metal-pinned polished-tipped or coated-tipped pin brush is ideal. We like the Glendan Slicker Brush (size small).

You may wish to do this in conjunction with calming music (see earlier tip #11) and/or aromatherapy (next tip, #16).

#16 Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a holistic treatment that uses the scents of certain essential oils to improve emotional (and sometimes physical) health. It’s been used for thousands of years and is still very popular today.

There are numerous studies that show lavender works well to help reduce stress with people. And a study of the effects of lavender with dogs showed that with (travel-induced) stress, aromatherapy with lavender led to less restlessness and less barking. For pets, it’s used not only for traveling, but at the vet’s or groomer’s, for separation anxiety, and other stressful instances.

One way to implement aromatherapy for your Pom, and especially if you would like to benefit from it as well, is to use an essential oil diffuser, like the Zen Breeze Essential Oil Diffuser. When you’re choosing essential oils, others ones that can also help with stress include bergamot citrus, lemongrass, evening primrose oil, chamomile, orange, and calendula (marigold flower).

And if you’re looking for an option that has just your Pom picking up the scent, you may want to consider a leave-in coat spray. For this, a top pick is BarkLogic Calming Leave In Conditioner Lavender Spray, which is 100% all-natural product that’ll be gentle on a Pom’s fur.

#17 Calming pheromones

Pheromones are chemicals produced by the body that act as a type of communication. With canines, these play a role when dogs greet each other and when females in heat signal they are looking for a mate. In regard to stress-relief, there is a supplement spray that is supposed to mimic the DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) which is released by females when nursing their pups; it sends a signal of safety and protection.

It's important to note that these sprays have mixed results. It tends to work best with dogs that suffer from acute stress, such as when traveling or when introduced to a new environment. And, for those situations, we'd first try the lavender aromatherapy (previous tip #16) or calming supplements (next tip, #18) first and then may be move onto this if those remedies do not work.

#18 Calming supplements

There are various vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other dietary supplements that are linked to stress reduction in dogs. These are most often used for acute stress, such as car rides, vet visits, thunderstorms, etc. Some can cause sleepiness, so are usually best for Poms that suffer from agitation and restlessness, not depressed or mopey behavior, and should be given in low half-doses to begin with.

There are lots to choose from, but a few notable ones include melatonin and Valerian root, which are thought to increase levels of GABA which in turn has a calming effect. L-theanine (suntheanine) and ginger root are thought to increase serotonin and dopamine. Hemp and L-tryptophan are thought to increase serotonin. And it is believed that chamomile may work by linking to the brain’s benzodiazepine receptors, which can have a sedative effect.

If you’d like to try this remedy to help with your Pom’s stress levels, you may wish to consider a combination supplement like Zesty Paws Advanced Calming Soft Chews for Dogs.

#19 Raise self-confidence

This works best for cases of chronic stress. The process itself involves praise and rewards, which are great mood boosters. And the end result is a dog that feels proud of themselves. So, it’s a win-win.

If you haven’t yet guessed, we’re talking about command or trick training. And there’s lots of fun options. If your Pom doesn’t know them yet, you can work on basic commands or heeling (both are covered in PetPom’s GIANT Book of Pomeranian Care).

And, if your Pomeranian has all of those down pat, why not do some trick training? This can be an awesome activity for both you and your Pom, it's fun and a wonderful way to bond. A fantastic resource for this is 101 Dog Tricks: Step by Step Activities by Kyra Sundance and Chalcy, which has photos and step-by-step instructions for every dog trick you can imagine, ranging from peekaboo to hoop jumping. There are sweet tricks like ‘Cover your Eyes’ and ‘Wave Bye’, all sorts of dancing (including figure 8’s and the moonwalk), and lots more.

Whenever you’re working with your Pom to learn something new, be sure to use high-value training treats. These should be small (so they don’t interfere with appetite), soft-baked, and packed with flavor and scent. Of course, these should also be held to the same high standards as all of your Pom’s food and snacks, with no additives or preservatives. One of our favorites is Zuke's Natural Mini Training Treats.

#20 An anti-anxiety jacket

These have lots of names including thunder vest, thunder shirt, compression wrap, anti-anxiety coat, stress coat, and more. But the principle is the same: fabric firmly yet comfortably ‘swaddles’ a dog to provide a sense of security during times of high stress. These work best for acute stress, such as if a Pomeranian is afraid of loud noises (thunder storms, fireworks, etc.).

Veterinary Intervention

In cases of ongoing stress, if you find that your Pomeranian does not respond to home remedies, if there are severe disturbances in sleep, or any other troubling symptoms, reach out to the veterinarian. A full health exam should be given. The vet may determine that prescribed mediation is needed.

In some cases, benzodiazepines such as Alprazolam (Xanax) or Diazepam (Valium) is given. In other cases, antidepressants such as Paroxetine (Paxil) or Sertraline (Zoloft) have been shown to help dogs with chronic stress. And Clomipramine (Clomicalm) is an FDA-approved tricyclic antidepressant medication that has been found to help with stress linked to separation anxiety.

Summary

There are lots of ways you can help your Pomeranian is they are suffering from stress. Here is a quick list of what was covered:

Monitor noise levels
Be aware of voice volume and tone
Create an eating and drinking oasis
Supervise young children
Maintain a daily schedule
Provide a retreat area
Chew toys
Boredom-busting toys
Companion toys
Help for missing and mourning
Classical music
Daily exercise
Ear rubs
Large-muscle kneaded massage
Brushing sessions
Aromatherapy
Calming pheromones
Calming supplements
Raise self-confidence
An anti-anxiety jacket

And, if you find that these methods are not enough to bring down your Pom’s stress, do not hesitate to contact the veterinarian.