It is normal for a dog to stretch from time to time. You might have noticed that your dog has been stretching excessively in the past few days and as a concerned parent, you have to know the reasons why and what you can do about it.
A dog can stretch a lot if he wants to play, tiredness, stress, pancreatitis, illness, or injury, as a way of exercising, he is not neutered, bloat, or he just like the feeling.
My Dog Stretches A Lot – 9 Reasons
Wants to Play
If your dog is stretching his front legs, he or she is probably ready to play! This is a common way for dogs to indicate that it’s time to play with other pets or humans.
This stretch is usually accompanied by a wagging tail and a cheerful expression, and it’s meant to show other dogs that they’re not interested in being hostile.
Tiredness
When dogs are fatigued or have recently awoken, it is usual for them to stretch more. It’s very likely that your dog stretches alot immediately before sleep time or when waking up for those reasons.
Stress
Stress causes a range of difficulties in dogs, the same way it does to humans. Stretching is a way for a dog to relax, so if you see a sudden increase in stretching, consider whether there have been any environmental changes or other reasons that may be adding to the tension.
He Likes the Feeling
It is usual for dogs to stretch a lot, and this is usually not a cause for concern. It’s likely that so does it because it enjoys the sensation of stretching.
Pancreatitis
Although a dog stretching frequently than others shouldn’t cause you too much concern, there are a few occasions in which the stretching could be problematic. If your dog has pancreatitis, his stomach may be inflated, and the only way for it to relieve the strain is to extend the abdomen. Fever, hunching over, bloating, and excessive stretching are all signs of pancreatitis. If you see any of these signs, you should take your pooch to the vet as fast as possible.
Illness or Injury
If your dog is sick, he may stretch more to relieve pain in his stomach. This is more likely if your doggie started doing it all of a mysteriously.
It’s also possible that he is suffering from an injury that becomes less painful as it stretches. If it has been limping or displaying other signs of being hurt, this is more likely. It is best to take him to a veterinarian if he appears to be in pain.
As A Away Of Exercising
Your dog could be bursting with energy if he or she receives little to no exercise. If you’ve ever spent time with a working dog like a Border collie, German shepherd, or Blue Heeler, you know that they require at least an hour of daily exercise to keep healthy and happy.
Dogs with insufficient activity may develop sore muscles, prompting them to stretch to relieve the pain.
Bloat
Gastric dilation, or bloat, exerts pressure on the stomach, causing a dog to stretch.
Bloat can be identified by excessive swelling or bulging, as well as stretching, and a lack of appetite. If your dog has a larger-than-normal tummy that gives him distress and they refuse to lay on it or let you touch it, you should see your veterinarian right away. Bloat is a dangerous and potentially fatal illness that requires prompt medical attention. Bloat mostly affects large dog breeds but small breeds are prone to it too.
Unneutered or Unspayed Dogs
If a dog is not spayed or neutered, he/she might stretch as a way of calling the suitor for mating. If you notice that your bitch is on heat, then her stretching should not worry you.
My Dog Stretch A lot, What Should I Do?
Just Let Him Be
If your dog is stretching excessively, it might not be a reason to worry much, you should just let him be.
Exercise
Lack of exercise and over-exercise can make your dog stretch a lot. If a dog is over-exercised, he will stretch probably because of joint pains and fatigue. On the other hand, if a dog is not exercised, he will be full of energy and stretching will help him release some of it.
Visit a Vet
Your dog might be stretching a lot because he is injured or has an underlying problem. If you suspect this is the problem, you should take your pooch to the vet for a checkup.
Conclusion
A dog can stretch a lot due to several reasons. Before trying to find a solution to your dog’s excessive stretching, you should know the reason behind it for you to find the finest solution.
If your dog stretches a lot and shows signs of pain, weakness, or stomach discomfort, take him to a vet immediately.
