Dogs see the world differently than us humans. They also rely on body language to communicate. Keep reading to see how they exhibit their emotions and feelings through their demeanor and actions. Some things will surely shock you.
This Is What Your Dog’s Behaviors Really Mean
On Hind Legs
When a dog stands on its hind legs, there are a number of possible meanings. It is likely showing affection. Just like humans, dogs sometimes want a hug too. However, when they do this around other dogs, it can mean they are being playful. As long as there is no aggressive behavior or they are not growling, they are likely just playing.
On Hind Legs
Furniture Chewing
When pups are teething, they like to chew on objects, but when they are not puppies anymore, chewing on things could mean something else. However, this does not necessarily mean that they are bad dogs. Chances are they are not getting enough physical activity. A good way to deal with this behavior is to take the dog out for a walk. Give them exercise if you notice your dog is starting to chew on the furniture.
Furniture Chewing
Frequent Barking
Dogs bark for several reasons. If it is frequent, the reason might be urgent. Maybe they sense danger and are telling you about it. They continue to bark as they are eager and alert- they are hearing something alarming and need someone to notice it. However, it is also a sign to alert others they are there and beware.
How They Bark
Bringing You Toys
Do not assume that just because your dog has a toy in their mouth, they want to play since one theory claims they do this to please you. They think of you as the alpha and would like to have your respect. Another theory says this is how they show that they trust you since they are bringing you such a valuable object to them. Of course, it might mean that they want you to have fun with their prized possession because they love you so much. You might hurt their feelings if you just throw the ball away!
Bringing You Toys
When Dogs Yawn
Humans yawn usually because they are tired or bored, but dogs do this if they feel secure and safe since it shows submission for them. However, it can also mean they are feeling stress or anticipation. A dog in the vet’s office yawning many times might be quite nervous. If they do this prior to a walk, they might be trying to keep their excitement in check. Like humans, dogs also yawn if they are tired.
When Dogs Yawn
Like A Caterpillar
It really makes us happy when we see our dog get a good wiggle. They kick up their legs and then wiggle on their back. It is an image we just cannot get tired of. A dog does it sometimes to scratch an itch though it is possible they just want to attract your attention. You should take the time to show them your love!
Like A Caterpillar
Before You Go
Even though it is for work, pet owners still generally feel guilty when they leave their pets at home alone. Some owners even send their pets to doggy day cares so they can feel better about it! If your dog gives you that sad face, you will now understand why. Sometimes, they put on a calm face, but you should not worry. Your dog knows you will be back and that face they are giving you shows trust, not sadness!
Before You Go
Pacing Back And Forth
If you see your dog pacing, they might be feeling nervous, excited, or bored – basically the same reasons that we humans have when we pace around the room! When dogs go around in circles, this is a sign of playfulness. This is why you see dogs chase one another when they meet. Yes, your dog wants to play with you!
Pacing Back And Forth
Pointing Their Snout
Have you ever wondered why your dog sometimes freezes up, nudges their snout toward something, and lifts a front paw? Well, this is going to clear things up for you. Apparently, almost all dogs do it, but it is more common among hunting breeds. According to Dr. Ellen Vindell “Dogs are just dogs, and there are certain behaviors that probably any dog that’s a dog can do…. You’ll see a sporting dog who circles like a herding dog, and you’ll get some herding dogs who point.”
Pointing Their Snout
Showing Discomfort
In addition to being a sign of comfort, dogs yawn for another reason. A dog yawning in public can mean they are exhausted and hoping to have an afternoon nap. Yes, yawns can also mean discomfort and anxiety. Make sure to look out for this behavior when your dog is in an unfamiliar place. It can tell you if it is time for your dog to go home.
Showing Discomfort
Tilting Their Heads
People have the tendency to use a higher pitch when they are speaking to a dog, and dogs sometimes tilt their head when humans do this. You might have guessed dogs do this to try and understand what a person is saying, and you are not wrong. They are great at reading and responding to body language and vocal cues and they take everything in, including reprimands and instructions. Dogs can also recognize certain words, so they are probably waiting for those linked to treats and walks! According to one theory, they move their heads that way so they can adjust their outer ears to have better listening comprehension.
Tilting Their Heads
Sniffing Around
Did you know that while humans have five million olfactory receptors, dogs have 220 million? Clearly, dog noses are superior to ours and dogs can smell better than we can by at least one thousand times. When dogs sniff around, they are either tracking prey or sensing danger, and they will keep still and silent as they do this. Dogs can also smell the difference among people or individual dogs – they can even smell the difference between identical twins!
Sniffing Around
Flipping Up Tongues
Dogs might stick their tongue out and flip it up if they think they did something wrong. They feel guilty and apologetic, and it might be their way of showing an innocent face. It is pretty much impossible to stay mad at such an adorable face. You can expect to see this look if they pee on the floor.
Flipping Up Tongues
Just Like Yoga
Most people stretch after waking up, but dogs do so for their muscles. It also symbolizes love and affection. When you get home and find your dog stretching, they did not just wake up. They are showing you they feel happy to see you! Isn’t it the cutest thing?
Just Like Yoga
Exposing Their Belly
If a dog shows you its belly, it means they respect you and feel submissive, and they probably would like to play with you. You should respond by rubbing their belly! Since they like this, they will keep showing you their belly. However, they might also show this behavior if some other animal is attacking them.
Exposing Their Belly
Tucking Their Tail
You may have noticed that dogs sometimes tuck their tails in between their legs. This is a sign of distress. Dogs do so if they are scared, guilty, ashamed, nervous, or uncertain. If you see your dog doing this, try to comfort them and make sure that they feel safe. Try petting them and talking to them in a soft voice. You can also try the doggie treat approach.
Tucking Their Tail
Raising Their Paws
A dog raises their paw to show that they need something from you or want to play with you. Most young dogs and pups display behavior like this. A pup that wants to eat often puts out their paws to their mother. If a puppy is doing the same to you, it means they want some affection and love!
Raising Their Paws
Using Their Tails
It is not a secret that a dog wags their tail when they are excited and happy. However, it can also mean submissiveness if they hang their tail down. If you see a dog doing this, show them some love, affection, and security. Wagging their tails high, however, means they are playful and alert!
Using Their Tails
Dragging Their Bum
You might think it is funny when you see your dog dragging their bum, but this is actually a cause for concern. This behavior is called scooting and dogs often do this if they are suffering from an impacted anal sac and they want to release it. There are specific dog breeds that suffer from the condition at higher rates. Since this can be quite uncomfortable, make sure to immediately bring your dog to the vet.
Dragging Their Bum
On Your Feet
Have you noticed your dog laying on your feet whenever you are watching TV or eating dinner? It might be annoying, but your dog actually means well! They do this to show love and loyalty. They want to be near you, and they got this behavior from their ancestors, who used to run as one pack.
On Your Feet
Leaning On You
Your dog leaning on you while you are hanging out should flatter you since this is how they give a hug. They would like to connect with you and are not being lazy. So the next time you think of nudging your dog off when they do this, do not do it. We highly recommend just allowing them to express their affection in that way.
Leaning On You
Tackling You
We know that getting tackled by your dog is not exactly comfortable. Maybe you have even gotten injured this way before. They do not intend to hurt you, though. This is how they show you they are glad to see you! They cannot control their excitement after having waited for you to get back.
Tackling You
Flicking Ears
A dog that flicks their ears is one that listens. In fact, this behavior is common among animals, and it happens if the sound is unfamiliar and they are trying to figure it out. If you see this happening, let your dog try and figure it out for a second. We personally adore how observant and inquisitive they are!
Flicking Ears
Licking Themselves Clean
It is no secret that dogs can lick themselves clean. They will try to do this if they are dirty, but it can also mean that they are hurt. A dog licking their legs and paws a lot, especially near the joints, should be brought to the vet. Better safe than sorry!
Licking Themselves Clean
Snarling And Showing Teeth
Dogs also show their moods in different ways. They are not positive all the time. If a dog wrinkles their muzzle, it means aggression. If they are snarling and showing their teeth, remove them from whatever situation they are in. This means they are ready to attack any time.
Snarling And Showing Teeth
Investigation Time
When you take your dog out for a walk, you might notice that your dog suddenly halts and raises a paw. No, they probably did not hurt themselves. Something caught their eyes and they are trying to figure out whatever it was. Their brains are working! When dogs they are playing detective, they tend to sniff a lot too.
Investigation Time
Straightened Tail
Dogs raise their tail in the air if they are excited or confident, and they often do this when meeting another dog or animal. However, a raised and shaky tail means they might feel challenged. Happy and contented dogs often have their tail at the same level with their body. A tail tucked between the legs or hanging low can mean insecurity.
Straightened Tail
The Side Tongue
Don’t you think it’s cute when a dog hangs their tongue out of their mouth? It actually shows that they are happy and calm! It can happen when you play fetch or go out for a walk. Excessively doing this, however, might mean the dog has the “hanging tongue syndrome.” This is common among dogs that have flat noses like boxers or bulldogs.
The Side Tongue
Digging Holes
Your dog has no evil intention when they dig the yard up. For them, it is instinctual as it is written in their DNA, especially in terrier breeds. When dogs dig in the yard, they often do it to leave toys, bones, and other valuables there. They might also do this to bury their dead or look for prey.
Digging Holes
Why They Bite
Getting bitten by your dog is not at all pleasant, but before you write your pet off as a bad dog, you should know that this behavior can actually mean playfulness and affection! When dogs play together, they can bite one another. This is not considered aggressive. This behavior can carry over to how they act towards you, but you should also look out for any signs of aggression or fear.
Why They Bite
Sleeping Beside You
Have you noticed that your furry friend likes laying down beside you rather than in the dog bed? They got this behavior from their ancestors. Hunting in packs, their forebears slept together for warmth and security. Your dog just wants to be close to you and trusts you enough to do this. You should take it as a compliment.
Sleeping Beside You
Paw Pats
Getting slapped by a person is not nice, and it is definitely different from getting slapped by a dog with a paw. There is no anger there – they are just trying to grab your attention. A dog slapping another dog is even more different as it signifies trust. You should think of it like getting pat on the back from another person.
Paw Pats
Eating And Cuddling
Your dog cuddling you right after eating is showing how much they love you. Many dogs want to have a nap after having a good meal. What better place to do this than right next to their favorite human being! When your dog does this, it is a great idea to cuddle with them.
Eating And Cuddling
Panting
Panting is not a sign of danger. It is how dogs like to cool off if they overheat. Since they do not sweat like us, this is how they decrease their body temperature. When a dog pants, they are likely in need of water. It might also be their way of letting go of pain or stress.
Panting
Eye Movement
In some ways, dogs and humans are alike. We have the tendency to show our emotions in our eyes. Dogs also look at the ground if they feel sad or tired. On the other hand, their eyes are wide open and they look around if they are excited. If they raise an eyebrow, they might be confused. Make sure to pay attention to these things so you can better understand your furry friend!
Eye Movement
Bowing
Your dog might bow for a number of reasons. We are talking about your dog lowering their head and keeping their bodies erect. Oftentimes, it means that they want to play. Wagging their tails excitedly and swinging their hips are also common behavior. Dog trainers call this behavior the “play bow.”
Bowing
Walking In Circles
Perhaps you are wondering why your dog walks in circles before they lie down. They likely got this behavior from their wolf ancestors. Before lying down, wolves do this to flatten leaves or debris so that the surface is more comfortable. We daresay that seeing dogs do this is pretty funny.
Walking In Circles
Howling
People have the tendency to quiet their dogs when the pets howl. However, your furry friend actually has a reason for doing this. It is their way of yelling, which is what humans do to release angry feelings. Trust us, this is not your dog’s way of asserting dominance over you. Let them do this, even just once in a while, because this is how they can express their feelings.
Howling
Hugging With Eyes
Have you ever wondered why your furry friend is giving you puppy dog eyes? It is not their way of trying to catch your attention, but it is actually a good sign. They do it to show their affection and it is the equivalent of hugging for them. This look of innocence means your dog adores you and wants you to give them a kiss or hug. When a dog looks into your eyes, it means they love you!
Hugging With Eyes
Yowling
No, this is not your dog’s way of trying to yodel. They yowl to communicate with you. According to an animal journal writer, “Our German Shepherd rescue, the sweetest dog we have ever owned (unless you happen to be a cat), is 9. She ‘talks‘ about everything! Grumbles, over being denied a cat lunch, has 5-minute conversations over going out for a walk, exchanges pleasantries (you would swear) over how happy she is to see someone.”
Yowling
Eating Feces
Yes, dogs eat poop. Even though it is disgusting, this behavior is not uncommon. The act of eating feces is called Coprophagia, and it could mean malnutrition. If you notice your dog doing it too much, we recommend you go see a vet. If nutrient deficiency is ruled out, you might want to get the services of a trainer who can help your dog give up this nasty habit.
Eating Feces
Chasing Tails
A dog going in circles and chasing their tail is a common sight. Do not worry if your dog does this since it is just a sign of playfulness, but if you notice that they are doing it excessively, try getting some help. This might signify health or behavioral issues. A dog chewing on their tail might mean allergies or anal gland issues, and it can signify OCD. Yes, dogs can get it too!
Chasing Tails
Licking
Licking is not uncommon for dogs. They do so to show affection, so your dog licking you is them telling you they love you. Aside from that, dogs like to taste the nutrients and minerals found in our skin. Still, knowing that intense licking can get corrected by training dogs properly is a good thing.
Licking
Humping
Humping is common among dogs and is not necessarily a dominance or sexual issue. Dogs can hump objects, animals, and people when they are being playful. While this behavior is not harmful, we understand if it makes some people uncomfortable. This habit can get pretty inconvenient.
Humping
Sniffing Butts
You might think, “Can you imagine if we humans greeted one another like that?” We already know a dog’s sense of smell is a thousand times better than ours. Butt-sniffing is their way of getting to know the world. Dogs can tell the gender, diet, and temperament of other dogs this way!
Sniffing Butts
Dog Squinting
Have you seen that slight squint dogs do? We are pretty sure it has manipulated you in the past. When a dog squints or blinks often, it means they want your attention and to have quality time with them. If your dog does this excessively, it might be a sign that you are spending too little time with them.
Dogs Squinting
Open Mouth, Relaxed Tail, High Ears
People often wonder about when it is best to approach a dog. You should do it when you see that the dog has a relaxed tail, open mouth, and pointed ears. In this state, they feel relaxed, safe, and neutral. You can cuddle up when your furry friend is behaving like this! Nothing can be better.
Open Mouth, Relaxed Tail, High Ears
Straight Tail, Ears Forward
A dog with their ears pointed forward and tail straight might make you think that that they are listening carefully to what is currently happening. You are not wrong since it means something caught their attention and they are curious about it. They are ready to investigate the particular thing or person!
Straight Tail, Ears Forward
Dead Dog
Do you know what the ‘dead bug’ pose looks like? The dog has their legs in the air and looks exactly like, well, a dead bug. If you have seen a dog do this pose, chances are they earned a laugh from you. The dog probably looks relaxed and content. This actually means they feel safe since it is a vulnerable pose.
Dead Dog
Side Sleeping
Many dogs lie on their sides during nap time, but they do not stay in this position for a long time since it means they will need a longer time to stand up and defend themselves in case there is trouble. A dog that sleeps like this has no troubles whatsoever. They obviously trust their owners!
Side Sleeping
Superman
The superman pose is probably the cutest pose ever. After dogs tire themselves out, they like to lie on their belly and spread out their limbs. This only happens if they are really exhausted. It is common for puppies to do this as the pose allows them to stand up really quickly.
Superman
Passed Out
Another pose that a dog might take if they are tired. However, if you see your pooch do this, you should be careful as this pose could mean that your dog is overheating and attempting to cool off. This pose is when a dog swings their paws across their chest. Let your dog get some rest if they are doing this.
Passed Out
Belly Curls
While this pose is cute, it actually means that the dog is not having a good night’s rest. This is referred to as the “belly curl,” which is when your pooch sleeps on their belly and their paws are underneath them or out to the sides. They won’t reach REM as their muscles are tensed. Shy and gentle dogs often sleep like this.
Belly Curls
Curling Up
Your dog curling up like a fox means they feel cold. Their paws are underneath their body and their tail is wrapped around them. This is their way of trying to retain body heat. If you see your dog sleeping this way, help them out by putting a blanket on them.
Curling Up
Back To Back
Dogs are so domesticated that a lot of people forget the furry animals are actually ‘pack’ animals. You might remember, however, after seeing dogs together and exhibiting certain behaviors. One of these patterns is sleeping back to back. It is not only cute but it also means they totally trust one another.
Back To Back
Bringing Gifts
We bet you have received from your dog gifts like leaves, shoes, or even dead animals. You do not have to fret since this is a sign that they respect you! This is their way of making you happy. That is simply adorable and very sweet, so just try to overlook the fact that disposing of a dead animal can be unpleasant.
Bringing Gifts
Boosting Energy
There are dogs that like getting baths. They are not common, though. We all know how the average dog hates baths. If your pooch is one of those that run around the house like mad after getting one, it is clear they are not big fans. They do not like being wet, so they do this to immediately dry off and get their scent back.
Boosting Energy
By Your Side
Anyone who has had a dog knows what it is like to get their privacy invaded. However, do not get offended if your pooch follows you when you go to the toilet and decides to stand there while you do your business. They just want to be close to you all the time! Remember that they are pack animals and like to stick together.
By Your Side
Showing Empathy
Have you ever suspected your pooch understands you? Dogs are empathetic creatures and they can tell if there are ‘strange’ feelings in the air like sadness or anger. If you are sad or upset, your furry friend will try to comfort you, perhaps by licking you, looking at you, or resting their paw or head on you. That is just the sweetest thing!
Showing Empathy
Eating Grass
It is not totally uncommon for a dog to eat grass, but sadly, this usually means they lack a specific nutrient. They also eat grass because it is fibrous and they want their food to get digested well. Watch out as it can mean intestinal worms or they are dehydrated. They want to get water from the grass. If your dog does this a lot, take your pooch immediately to a vet. It is better safe than sorry.
Eating Grass
Humping Inanimate Objects
Have you ever seen your dog humping a stuffed animal or a leg chair and had no clue why the animal would possibly think this is normal? Well, it is possible that your pooch is doing it to try to get your attention. If they know this behavior will catch your attention and get a reaction from you, then they will do it.
Humping Inanimate Objects
Digging After Going To The Bathroom
You may have thought your dog digs up some grass after doing their business on a walk or in the yard to “cover” their droppings with some pieces of nature, but this is actually their way of marking their territory. When another dog smells traces of your dog’s paws that have scratched into the dirt, that pooch will know your pet has been there and the patch of grass is now theirs.
Digging After Going To The Bathroom
Winking
In spite of what you may think, if your pup winks at you, it is highly unlikely that they are trying to hint something to you or tell a funny joke. In reality, they probably just have something in their eye which is bothering them or feel that their eye is irritated.
Winking
Barking At Nothing
Sometimes if our dogs look out the window and begin barking, we see that there is nothing there for the pooch to bark at… but why are they barking? It is possible that they are doing this to protect your house. Your home is their home, too, and they want all intruders to be aware that they are there.
Barking At Nothing
Licking You
Most people love it when their pooch licks their face or their hand, but did you know the reason behind it aside from the fact that dogs love to lick everything? Some people believe that dogs show affection by licking you, while others believe dogs do it as a sensory tool, like a human touching something to feel it.
Licking You
Staring At You
You might find it a bit odd that your dog is fixated on you most of the time, but to a dog, this is totally normal. Perhaps your dog is staring at you since they want a treat and know that nobody could possibly resist their sweet puppy dog eyes.
Staring At You
Shaking Toys
Your dog violently shaking their toys in their mouths back and forth might seem adorable and funny to you, but to them, they are replicating the way they would kill prey if they are in the wild. It is hard to imagine that your sweet pup can do such a thing, but this is sometimes second nature for them.
Shaking Toys
Only Eating In Private
When a dog refuses to eat in a room with another dog or human, it is simply because of the fact that they are unwilling to share their food. Humans probably do not think about this since we do not eat dog food, but dogs do not understand that!
Only Eating In Private
Voluntarily Sleeping In His Crate
It might seem a little odd to you that your pooch is choosing to get a nap in his crate rather than on your bed with you or on the couch, but to a dog, their crate can mean their bedroom. They feel comfortable there and at ease, since they spend their time there when you are not around. It is their own space.
Voluntarily Sleeping In His Crate
Kick When You Scratch Their Belly
Many pet owners find it funny and super adorable when their dog kicks while getting their belly scratched, but in reality, this is the equivalent of dogs getting tickled. They kick their legs because their scratch nerves are saying there is something itchy that they need to get off. If you notice that your dog’s legs are kicking when you scratch a specific spot, just move a bit.
Kick When You Scratch Their Belly
Stopping And Positioning Themselves Forward
A dog usually does this when they are feeling threatened, challenged or in need of expressing some dominance. This is often prevalent when you interrupt your pet’s meal or snack-time. It is best to leave a dog alone when they do this even if their tail is wagging, they may attack and make you the snack.
Stopping And Positioning Themselves Forward
Bad Breath
Doggy breath is something we all know and loathe, it is never going to smell fresh and minty but it is something to really take note of. If you notice a change in your dog’s breath it may symbolize an issue with their oral health. It can mean a number of things such as problems gastrointestinally, within the liver or kidneys. We advise a trip to your local veterinarian. sweet-smelling breath can mean diabetes whereas urine smelling breathe may mean a kidney issue.
Bad Breath
Biting Puppies
Puppies nip as they learn to communicate with their parents as the mouth is the symbol and tool for interaction. It is not an issue but important to curb it from a young age or they will think the behavior is acceptable.
Biting Puppies
Stress Shaking
Shaking is an indicator of stress and is often seen in puppies when in a new environment. It is their way of trying to comfort themselves but is also a reaction to the feeling of anxiety. Comforting your dog can really help in this situation and simply being near to them, after all, they feel your love and warmth.
Stress Shaking
Stress Blinking
This may happen after some wild activity, hyperactivity or when your fluffy friend is winding down after a long day. Your dog starts blinking slowly and for relatively long periods of time, it just means they are trying to calm themselves down and relax.
Stress Blinking
Shredding Paper
Coming home to a room or house full of toilet paper bits and pieces is inevitable. Maybe your dog actually ate your homework. Well, dogs are animals after all and the feeling of tearing things up is just simply fun. In the wild, they would tear up prey but in your home paper will do.
Shredding Paper
Twitching
Fast asleep and suddenly he starts moving here and there, letting out a little bark and twitch. just as you do your dog may be dreaming or chasing after something. Just as we have different stages of sleep so do they, it is more common in younger dogs though.
Twitching
Why They Burry Bones
This is simply wild instincts talking as they do not know just how their next meal will be coming about, they do not know that you as their beloved owner will forever feed them thus, they burry it and keep it for later just in case. When need be they dig it up once again.
Why They Burry Bones
Loud Barking
Loud barking and yelping can mean that your pet is frustrated, scared or simply for territory reasons. During a storm or windy weather, it is usual for them to bark and feel a bit feared. Sometimes it is often to let you know- this being if they are in pain.
Loud Barking
Soft Barking
Sometimes barking is a bit more toned down and it is important to notice the differences as well as focus on knowing your pets barks. Softer and shorter barks mean they want to play and are in a playful mood, it is a fabulous attention-seeking method because you cannot not respond to them.
Soft Barking