07/21/2026
How can you tell if your dog is struggling with dysregulation?
Here are a few signs to look out for:
- Difficulty settling, even after exercise
- Not taking naps throughout the day
- Barking/reacting to every little sound or TV
- Heavily fixating on things without being able to let it go in a timely manner
- Jumping, mouthing, or grabbing at things when experiencing heightened emotions (e.g. excitement, frustration, fear, etc.)
- Separation anxiety
- Hyperfixation on things like their ball, frisbee, or toy
- Frequently panting (even if it's not hot and they haven't exercised)
Obedience alone won't "fix" dysregulation.
A dog can have perfect obedience skills and still struggle when they're overwhelmed, frustrated, or overstimulated. What they need are coping skills; the ability to process their emotions, make choices, and recover from excitement or stress.
Instead of asking, "How do I stop this behavior?" try asking, "How can I help my dog handle this situation better?"
If your dog is experiencing signs of dysregulation, Speaking Dog is Ruff offers a free 30-minute phone consultation where we can talk through your concerns, answer questions, and help you figure out the best next steps for your dog.
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