When Small Things Add Up
Briefly

Dogs experience small stressors that accumulate over time, leading to significant reactions known as trigger stacking. Each stressor adds to a 'stress bucket,' which, when overflowing, causes behaviors like barking, growling, or lunging. This reaction should not be viewed as negative behavior but rather a response to overwhelming circumstances. Recognizing and addressing the buildup of stressors is crucial for maintaining a dog's well-being, as chronic stress can adversely affect health and behavior, much like it does in humans.
Even minor annoyances can accumulate until your dog reaches a breaking point. This accumulation is known as trigger stacking, where multiple stressors build up.
Understanding trigger stacking can transform how we care for our dogs. Dogs experience the world sensitively, and chronic stress affects their health and behavior.
Read at Psychology Today
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