Chronic stress keeps a dog’s three regulatory systems constantly active, leading to elevated levels of cortisol—the primary glucocorticoid in dogs. When cortisol levels remain high without sufficient recovery, the dog becomes susceptible to "adaptation diseases," which can manifest as kidney issues, heart problems, and other health concerns.

Research helps us better understand how different parts of the brain interact. Strong emotions, governed by the limbic system, often suppress the cerebrum, hindering a dog’s ability to think and learn effectively.

As a result, dogs have less tolerance for the daily challenges we expect them to handle. We may observe increased fear, aggression, and exaggerated reactions to ordinary situations. This is because their physical systems, overwhelmed by hormonal floods, are using all their energy to maintain internal balance, leaving little capacity to cope with external stressors.