What are the signs of overworked or stressed working dogs?

Excessive panting and restlessness are indeed significant signs that a working dog is overworked or stressed. Unlike typical behavioral patterns, when a dog is experiencing stress or fatigue, it may exhibit physical symptoms such as panting, which indicates that it is struggling to regulate its body temperature and manage its physical state. Moreover, restlessness can manifest as an inability to settle down, pacing, or other anxious behaviors reflecting a dog’s discomfort and desire to relieve stress.

These signs can indicate that the dog is overwhelmed, either mentally or physically, and needs a break to recover. In a working dog, which often performs tasks that require concentration and physical exertion, it's essential for handlers to recognize these signs to prevent burnout or other negative effects on the dog’s health and well-being.