Is your dog trying to tell you something?

Our dogs have a wonderful way of making us feel better. Whether we've had a brilliant day or one we'd rather forget, they somehow know how to make things feel a little brighter.

But this World Mental Health Day, we're turning the tables. We know how much our dogs mean to us, but how well do we really understand how they're feeling?

Just like us, dogs can experience stress, fear and anxiety. And while they can't tell us when something's bothering them, their body language can reveal a lot about how they're feeling. Sometimes, we just need to know what to look for.

Previous research by The Royal Kennel Club found that while 72% of dog owners believed they could accurately read their dog's body language, 88% didn't recognise that yawning could be a sign of stress or fear.

So, could your dog be trying to tell you something?

The little signs that say a lot

Dogs communicate through their body language, and some of the signs that they're feeling uncomfortable can be surprisingly easy to miss.

Here are a few things worth looking out for:

• Yawning: Not always a sign that it's time for a nap. Dogs may also yawn when they're feeling uncomfortable or anxious.
• Licking their lips: If there's no food involved, repeated lip licking can sometimes signal stress.
• Stiff body language: A tense posture, ears pinned back or a tucked tail may suggest your dog is feeling uneasy.
• Turning away: Moving away from people or situations can be a dog's way of asking for space.
• Wide eyes: Showing the whites of their eyes (whale eyes) or holding a fixed stare can be a sign of discomfort, particularly alongside other changes in body language.
• Changes in behaviour: Becoming withdrawn, pacing or losing interest in favourite activities could suggest something isn't quite right.

Of course, a yawn doesn't automatically mean your dog is anxious, and a wagging tail doesn't always mean they're happy. Every dog is different, so it's important to consider the situation and their usual behaviour.

What might be stressing your dog out?

Just like us, dogs can be affected by changes in their surroundings and daily routines.

Moving house, welcoming a new family member, unfamiliar noises or being left alone can all be unsettling for some dogs. Even boredom, a lack of stimulation or not having enough opportunities to rest can affect their wellbeing.

And just like us, dogs have their own personalities. What one dog takes in their stride might be a big deal for another. It's also worth remembering that changes in mood or behaviour can be linked to pain or an underlying health issue, which is why it's important not to dismiss them.

Time for a dog check-in

We check in on our friends, family and ourselves, but when was the last time we checked in on our dogs?

Here are four little questions worth asking: