Understanding the 4 Levels of Stress in Dogs: From Blue to Red State

Being a dog parent is one of the most joyful experiences, but let's face it—it can also come with its fair share of stress, both for us and our pups. Whether it’s that unexpected vet visit or the sudden boom of thunder, our furry friends experience stress just like we do.

But did you know that your dog’s stress can be broken down into four specific levels? Dr. Linnea Passaler’s Heal Your Nervous System introduces us to the concept of stress states, and it’s not just for humans—it applies to our dogs, too! These levels go from the calm Blue State all the way to the intense Red State. Understanding these states can help you better support your pup and keep them healthy and happy.

Let’s dive into the 4 levels of stress for our dogs:

Blue State: Deep Rest and Cellular Regeneration

This is where every dog parent wants their pup to be—completely relaxed and rejuvenating. At the Blue State, your dog is in deep rest, experiencing complete relaxation, and their body is in full recovery mode. Whether they’re snoozing after a long walk or enjoying some belly rubs on the couch, your dog is recharging their batteries here. 🐶💤

Green State: Relaxed and Focused

The Green State is where your dog is in their “flow state”, focused and relaxed. Think of it as your pup being in their happy place—whether that’s playing tuggy with you, learning a new trick, or just observing their surroundings with interest. They’re engaged but not stressed, and this is where we want our dogs to be more often than not. 🐕🟢

Yellow State: Treadmill of Cognitive Overload

Now we’re getting into trickier territory. The Yellow State is where your dog starts to feel overwhelmed by stimuli. Maybe it’s the constant barking of the neighbour’s dog, a busy household, or just too many things happening at once. Your dog might seem restless, unable to settle down, and their focus starts to slip. It’s like they’re on a treadmill, trying to keep up but feeling mentally exhausted. 🐾💛

Red State: Acute Stress Response and Full Alertness

This is the top of the stress ladder, and it’s not a place you want your dog to stay for long. In the Red State, your dog is in full alert mode—heart racing, ears pinned back, and muscles tense. It could be triggered by a loud noise, a new and scary situation, or even separation anxiety. Your dog is in fight-or-flight mode, and they need immediate help to calm down. 🚨🔴

So, What’s Next?

Understanding these stress states is crucial for helping your dog navigate their emotions. Next time your pup seems on edge, take a moment to assess where they are on this spectrum. Are they in the Yellow State, teetering on cognitive overload? Or have they tipped into the Red State, needing immediate comfort?

The reason I’m sharing this is because our dogs count on us to help them through stressful moments, just as much as they bring us joy and comfort. Recognising these states can make a world of difference in how you support your furry friend.

If you’ve clicked onto this blog, chances are you want to be the best dog parent you can be. So, what would you do now? Start by observing your dog's behaviour today and see where they are on this scale. And remember, every dog is different, so learn to read your pup’s unique signs. 🐾❤️