5. Avoiding Eye Contact or Hiding

Does your dog duck away when you try to lock eyes, or are they suddenly spending more time under the bed than by your side? Avoiding interaction or hiding can be a sign of fear, anxiety, or sadness. Dogs are social creatures, so retreating from you or others isn’t their natural state.

What to do: Give them space but gently encourage interaction with treats or calm reassurance. If it persists, consider if something in their environment—like loud noises or a new pet—might be stressing them out.