Dogs do not view the world the same way that we humans do. Even though this is true, they also rely on body language to communicate. Keep reading to see how they show their emotions and feelings through their demeanor and actions. We bet you did not know some of these things!
What It Actually Means When Your Dog Does This And That
On Hind Legs
There are a few possibilities when you see your dog stand up on their hind legs. Often, they do it to show their affection. Yes, your dogs just wants a hug sometimes! Around other dogs, it often means playfulness. There is no reason to be worried as long as they are not growling or showing aggression.
On Hind Legs
Furniture Chewing
Pups enjoy chewing on different objects when they are going through the teething stage. This is bad if they are no longer pups. However, there is no need to worry, but it might mean that your pet is not getting as much physical activity as their body needs. One way to address this issue is to bring them out for a walk. If your dog starts to chew on the furniture, it might be time to go out for a walk!
Furniture Chewing
How They Bark
There are a few reasons why dogs bark. Frequent and loud barks often indicate something urgent. Maybe they feel danger lurking and want to notify you of it. However, it is also possible that they are feeling wounded and in pain! Soft and short ones, on the other hand, mean they are feeling playful.
How They Bark
Bringing You Toys
If your dog has their toy in their mouth, it does not always mean that they want to play. A theory claims that they are trying to please you when they do this. They think of you as their alpha and hope to get your respect. Meanwhile, another theory suggests that this is how they show their trust in you. They trust you so much that they are bringing you a prized possession. It might be that they want you to enjoy their valuable object this way. In the end, you might hurt their feelings by throwing the ball away!
Bringing You Toys
When Dogs Yawn
For us humans, yawning is common when we feel tired or bored. For dogs, however, this is common behavior when they feel secure and safe. It might be their way to show submission as well. A dog that yawns 15 times signifies that they are totally relaxed. On the other hand, it might be a sign of anticipation or stress as well. When you are in the vet’s clinic, it might be that they feel nervous when they keep yawning. Before taking them out a walk, however, it might be that they are showing their enthusiasm.
When Dogs Yawn
Like A Caterpillar
We love to see our dog wiggle, kick their legs up, and then wiggle on their back! It might be the most adorable thing in the world. There might be times when your dog only does it to scratch their itch away, but they might just want to catch your attention as well. This is a good time to show them some love!
Like A Caterpillar
Before You Go
You must feel guilty when you need to leave your pet at home when you need to go to school or work. There are people who spend their money on daycares so that they would not be lonely. When a dog makes a sad face, it is easy to see why they do it. However, dogs put on a calm face when you need to go sometimes. They know that you are going to return soon, so it is a symbol of trust instead. Aww.
Before You Go
Pacing Back And Forth
Is your dog pacing? If so, it might be because they feel bored, excited, or nervous. We humans tend to do the same thing, after all. When they go around in circles, it means that they want to play with their owners. It is the reason dogs like to chase one another upon introduction. They just feel playful!
Pacing Back And Forth
Pointing Their Snout
We bet you get curious when you see your dog freeze and then nudge their snout at something. Aside from that, they might even lift their front paw. It is common among hunting dogs too. “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,” said Dr. Ellen Vindell.
Pointing Their Snout
Showing Discomfort
Apart from showing just how comfy they are, dogs also yawn when they want to communicate something else. A dog that yawns in public might be one that is exhausted and in need of an afternoon nap. It might show discomfort and anxiety too. It would be good to keep this in mind when you see your dog doing this often when they are somewhere unfamiliar.
Showing Discomfort
Tilting Their Heads
People have a tendency to talk in a higher pitch when talking to a dog. When you do this, your dog might tilt their head in an effort to understand you. Dogs are actually amazing at reading and responding to body language and vocal cues. They can learn instructions and understand reprimands. In fact, they also recognize some words and might be waiting for the ones they associate with treats and walks! One theory says that they position their heads that way so that their outer ears can comprehend you better.
Tilting Their Heads
Sniffing Around
Dog noses are amazing for specific things. We humans come with 5 million olfactory receptors, but dogs have 220 million. Yes, their sense of smell is better than ours by a long shot. When dogs sniff around, they might be tracking prey or sensing danger. They tend to remain still and silent in moments like this. Dogs also know the difference among other dogs or people via smell, which is amazing on its own.
Sniffing Around
Flipping Up Tongues
When dogs believe that they did something wrong, they will put out their tongue and then flip it in apology. They feel apologetic and guilty at the same time. This is their own version of an innocent face. We do not know how you can resist a face like this one! They often do this when they pee on the bed.
Flipping Up Tongues
Just Like Yoga
Unlike humans, dogs do not only stretch after waking up. They do this for their muscles like we do, but they also show affection and love this way. When you arrive home and catch your pet stretching, it does not mean that they just finished a nap. No, they want to let you know that they are glad to see you.
Just Like Yoga
Exposing Their Belly
A dog that shows you their belly is one that respects you and shows submission. It might also mean that they want to play. The best way to respond to this behavior is by rubbing their belly. If this happens often enough, they will do it again and again. On the other hand, they also show such behavior when another animal attacks them.
Exposing Their Belly
Tucking Their Tail
Did you just see your dog tuck away their tail between their legs? If so, there is a chance that they feel ashamed, nervous, uncertain, guilty, or scared. When this happens, the best thing to do is to comfort them and make them feel safe. You can achieve this by petting them and speaking in a soft voice. If you feel generous, you might want to give them doggie treats too!
Tucking Their Tail
Raising Their Paws
What does it mean when your dog raises their paw? Well, it likely means that they want to play or want something from you. Puppies and younger dogs do this a lot. A puppy that wants to eat will put their paws out to look for their mother. This means that they are looking for love and affection!
Raising Their Paws
Using Their Tails
It is not a secret that a dog with a wagging tail is a happy and excited one. However, they might be feeling submissive when their tail is hanging low. When you see a dog doing this, you should probably show them affection, love, and security. Meanwhile, wagging it high means playfulness and alertness!
Using Their Tails
Dragging Their Bum
There is a reason for you to be concerned when your pet starts to drag their bum around. This is known as scooting, and dogs do it when their anal sac has been impacted. Some dog breeds tend to suffer this at higher rates. It can be very uncomfortable for them, so bring your fur baby to the vet ASAP.
Dragging Their Bum
On Your Feet
Have you noticed how much dogs lay on your feet when you eat dinner or watch TV? Sure, it is a bit annoying sometimes, but your pet only wants to show you love and loyalty! This is as close as they can be as possible, after all. This is behavior they inherited from their forebears who ran in packs in the past.
On Your Feet
Leaning On You
Does your dog lean on you when you hang out? If so, you must feel flattered! No, they are not being lazy. After all, this is like a hug for them and their way to connect with their favorite human. Don’t nudge them away the next time they do it. Trust us, they will feel better if you just let them do it to you.
Leaning On You
Tackling You
Sure, it is not exactly comfortable when your dog tackles you. In fact, you might even get injured when it happens! At any rate, they are not trying to hurt you. No, they just want to express how happy they are to see you. They just can’t contain their excitement after waiting for you to return the entire day. Cute!
Tackling You
Flicking Ears
A dog that flicks their ears is a dog that listens. In fact, this is a common thing to do in the animal kingdom. This happens when a dog hears an unfamiliar sound and tries to place it. Give your dog a few moments to figure it out when you notice it happening. If you ask us, we love their curiosity!
Flicking Ears
Licking Themselves Clean
It is common knowledge that dogs lick their bodies to clean themselves. Is your dog dirty? If so, they will probably try to lick their body clean. It can mean that they are in pain as well. When a dog frequently licks their legs and paws, particularly near their joints, you might want to get it checked out by the vet.
Licking Themselves Clean
Snarling And Showing Teeth
Dogs have different ways to show their moods. Of course, it is not positive all of the time. A dog that wrinkles their muzzle is one that feels aggressive. If they bare their teeth and snarl, you should probably do something about the current situation. Why? Well, they might attack at the first sign of provocation.
Snarling And Showing Teeth
Investigation Time
When you are out on a walk, there is likely going to be a moment when your pet stops and raises a foot. Don’t worry, they probably did not get hurt. They might just be trying to figure out something that caught their attention. Yes, their brains are hard at work when they try to play detective.
Investigation Time
Straightened Tail
What does it mean your dog has their tail in the air? It can mean confidence or excitement. Dogs like to do it when they meet a new animal or dog. If they keep the tail up and shaky, they might feel a challenge. When they are happy, they will keep it level. They will keep it low when they feel insecure.
Straightened Tail
The Side Tongue
Isn’t it cute when your dog hang outs their tongue? This often means that they are calm and happy. You might see this more often when you head out to play fetch or go on a walk. Just make sure they are not doing it too often because that might signify that they are suffering from “hanging tongue syndrome.”
The Side Tongue
Digging Holes
You might not believe it right now, but your dog did not have evil intentions when they messed up the yard. This is just instinctual behavior for them, especially if they are a terrier breed. They like to dig the soil to keep toys, bones, and other valuable objects. If not, they do it to bury the dead or look for prey.
Digging Holes
Why They Bite
We know that you do not like it when your dog bites you. However, they like to do it to show affection and playfulness! Dogs tend to bite each other when playing. This is not considered aggressive, and the behavior carries over to how they act with you. It’s all good as long as they are not scared or aggressive.
Why They Bite
Sleeping Beside You
You should not be offended when your fur baby skips the dog bed to go lie down with you. This is something they got from their ancestors, who liked to hunt in packs and sleep beside each other for warmth and security. Your pet only wants to be as close to you as possible. They must trust you a lot!
Sleeping Beside You
Paw Pats
No one likes to get slapped, right? However, it is not the same when a dog slaps you with their paw. They are not mad, only hoping to get your attention. It is more different when one dog does it to another dog. This is a sign of trust for them. It is kind of their version of slapping each other on the back.
Paw Pats
Eating And Cuddling
Does your dog cuddle with you as soon as they eat? If so, they clearly adore you a lot! Many dogs like taking naps after eating their meals. As we all know, there is nothing better than taking a siesta beside our favorite person. If we were in that position, we would not hesitate to cuddle up with a different dog.
Eating And Cuddling
Panting
When your dog pants, it does not always mean that they are in danger. This is how they prefer to cool off when they are overheating. Since they do not sweat like humans do, this is their preferred way to lower their body temperature. They might also feel pain or stress when they pant. Make sure to give them some water!
Panting
Eye Movement
In many ways, dogs are not that different from humans. They use their eyes to express their emotions too. They like to look down when they are sad or tired. In the same way, they open their eyes wide and look around whenever they are excited. When they raise an eyebrow, however, they are likely confused.
Eye Movement
Bowing
There are plenty of reasons why a dog might be bowing to you. This is when they bring their head down but keep their body erect. Usually, this means that they want to play with you! Wagging tails and swinging hips are common when they feel excited as well. Dog trainers call this the “play bow.”
Bowing
Walking In Circles
Have you ever seen your dog walk in circles before they laid down? Let us find out why they do this. It is actually behavior they inherited from wolf ancestors. Wolves do this to flatten any leaves or debris so that they can get a better night’s sleep. Isn’t it funny when dogs do this before going to bed?
Walking In Circles
Howling
People like to silence their pets whenever they howl, but they actually do this for a reason! This is similar to us yelling when we are feeling angry. Do not worry, they are not asserting their dominance over you. In fact, you should just let your dog keep doing it since this is how they express their feelings.
Howling
Hugging With Eyes
Puppy dog eyes are adorable and signify good things. They are not only trying to look cute to get your attention but are also expressing their affection. This is their own version of hugging. That innocent look means that they adore you and would like a hug or kiss. When a dog looks into your eyes, they love you!
Hugging With Eyes
Yowling
Nope, dogs do not try to yodel. When they yowl, they are trying to communicate with you. “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,” explained one animal journal writer.
Yowling
Eating Feces
We all know that dogs eat poop. While disgusting, this is pretty common behavior. The act of eating feces is called coprophagia and could mean they are suffering from malnutrition. Bring your pal to a vet when it happens too often. When a nutrient deficiency is ruled out, a trainer can help stop this behavior.
Eating Feces
Chasing Tails
There is a very good chance that you have seen your dog go around in circles to chase their tail. It is a common sign of playfulness in dogs. Doing this too much might mean health or behavioral problems, however. A dog that chews their tail could also mean allergies, gland issues, or even OCD.
Chasing Tails
Licking
Licking is common behavior in just about any dog. This is how they like to show affection. A dog that licks you is the equivalent of a human being telling you they love you! Dogs are also fond of tasting the nutrients and minerals in our skin. However, too much licking can be stopped with proper training.
Licking
Humping
Humping is yet another common behavior in dogs. It is not necessarily a dominance or sexual thing for these animals. Dogs like to hump objects, people, and other animals in a playful way. While it is not harmful, it can make others feel uncomfortable. It is a habit that can be really inconvenient.
Humping
Sniffing Butts
“Can you imagine if people greeted each other like that?” We are talking about the butt-sniffing behavior dogs like so much! By now, we already know that dogs can smell 10,000 times better than we can. It is how they become familiar with the world. This is also a good way to figure out the gender, diet, gender, and temperament of other dogs.
Sniffing Butts
Dog Squinting
We bet you are familiar with that little squint dogs do so often. Aside from that, you must have even been manipulated by it before! A blinking or squinting dog usually means that he wants quality time and attention. A dog that does it too much might mean you do not spend enough time with them, however.
Dogs Squinting
Open Mouth, Relaxed Tail, High Ears
People like to know about the best time to approach their dog. The answer to this is when they have an open mouth, pointed ears, and a relaxed tail! When you see a pooch this way, they are safe, neutral, and relaxed. If you find your pet like this, feel free to cuddle with them! They will appreciate it as well.
Open Mouth, Relaxed Tail, High Ears
Straight Tail, Ears Forward
But what does it mean when your dog has ears pointing forward and a straight tail? You might think that they are trying to listen closely to the current situation. Yes, it does mean that something got their attention. They must be so curious about that person or thing that they want to investigate!
Straight Tail, Ears Forward
Dead Dog
If you have ever seen a dog in the ‘dead bug’ pose, you must have let out a laugh! This is what they call the pose that dogs do when they stick their limbs up in the air. They look exactly like dead bugs! This means that your dog is relaxed, content, and safe. After all, it is a very vulnerable pose to strike.
Dead Dog
Side Sleeping
Many dogs like to lie down on their sides during naps. However, they don’t stay like this for long periods of time. It often means that they will need a longer time to stand up and defend themselves in case anything comes up. A dog in this pose is one without any worries whatsoever, which is a good thing.
Side Sleeping
Superman
What could possibly be cuter than a dog doing the superman pose? After they tire themselves out, they like to fall asleep on their belly and spread out their limbs. It only really happens when they feel truly exhausted. Pups do this frequently because this pose allows them to get up easily.
Superman
Passed Out
Here is yet another pose that you find might your dog in when they feel tired. Do not be happy, however, since it might mean that they are overheating and in dire need of cooling off. This pose is when they have their paws swung across their chest. If you see this, just let them rest.
Passed Out
Belly Curls
While this is cute, it means that your dog is not having a good night’s sleep. Known as the “belly curl,” this is what they call the pose when a dog sleeps on their belly with their paws either tucked underneath them or spread out to the sites. They do not reach REM this way since their muscles are all tensed up.
Belly Curls
Curling Up
There are times when dogs curl up in the same way that foxes do. They put their paws underneath their body and wrap their tail around them when they are feeling cold. This is a good pose because they can retain a lot of their body heat. If a dog is sleeping like this, you should put a blanket on top of them.
Curling Up
Back To Back
Dogs might have been domesticated, but you should not forget that they are ‘pack’ animals. You might remember that after you see a couple of dogs getting along and showing certain behaviors. One such pattern is when they sleep back to back. It is not just cute, but it is a sign that they truly trust each other.
Back To Back
Bringing Gifts
We are sure that your dog has previously gifted you leaves, shoes, and maybe even dead animals. Do not worry. They just want to let you know how much respect they have for you. It is adorable that they want you to be happy this way. While it is annoying to get rid of dead animals, it is also kind of sweet.
Bringing Gifts
Boosting Energy
There are some dogs out there who like to get baths, but they aren’t very common. The average dog hates getting wet, after all. If you see your dog running about the house after you give them a bath, they must not be big fans. They demonstrate a lot of energy since they want to get dry as soon as possible!
Boosting Energy
By Your Side
If you are a dog owner, perhaps you know that dogs do not know what ‘invasion of privacy’ means. Do not be offended when they follow you to the bathroom and just stay there. The only thing they want is to remain as close to you as possible. Again, these pack animals like to stay together at all times.
By Your Side
Showing Empathy
If you have ever felt that your dog understands your feelings, you might be on the right track. These empathetic animals can sense when there are ‘strange’ feelings such as anger or sadness in the air. This is the reason they attempt to comfort you when you are down. They might rest their paw or head on y our body, lick you, and look at you. How sweet is that?
Showing Empathy
Eating Grass
It is not all that rare for a dog to eat grass. Unfortunately, this usually means that there is something lacking in their diet. It is either that or they hope to digest their food better since grass is full of fibers. Just watch out because it might also mean intestinal worms or dehydration. Perhaps they want to obtain water from the grass. You should bring your dog to a vet as soon as you notice this happening too much.
Eating Grass
Humping Inanimate Objects
Perhaps you have once seen your pooch humping the leg chair or some stuffed animal. Do not worry. They are likely only doing such a thing in the hopes of catching your attention. If they are aware that doing this will bother you and make you give them attention, they will do this to get some affection.
Humping Inanimate Objects
Digging After Going To The Bathroom
Perhaps you assumed that a dog digging up grass after they use the bathroom in your yard or pavement was a way to “cover” their droppings. However, the truth is that this is a way for them to mark their territory! By doing such a thing, they are able to leave the scent of their paws on the dirt and let others know that they have been there. Perhaps they are also trying to claim that particular patch of grass.
Digging After Going To The Bathroom
Winking
No matter what you might think, a dog that winks at you is not one trying to tell a funny joke or hinting at something. The truth is that they probably just got something in the eye. It is very likely that this object bothers them or irritating their eyes in one way or another.
Winking
Barking At Nothing
There are times when dogs look out the window and then start barking. When you take a look for yourself, you might notice that there is nothing outside. How come they won’t stop? They might be doing it since they want to protect the house. Your house is also theirs, so they want all intruders to stay away by letting their presence be known.
Barking At Nothing
Licking You
A lot of people enjoy it when their dog licks their face or hands. However, these creatures do not do this for no reason at all. There are folks who believe that dogs lick humans to show their affection. On the other hand, there are people who believe that this is meant to be a sensory tool of sorts. Think of it as humans reaching out to feel for something.
Licking You
Staring At You
Have you ever noticed your dog fixating on you? It must happen a lot. Even though it might feel a little weird, dogs do not think anything of it. Your dog must be staring that way because they want a treat. They probably know just how irresistible puppy dog eyes can be!
Staring At You
Shaking Toys
If a dog violently shakes their toys in a back and forth manner in their mouths, you might think it is cute. However, they are actually replicating the way they would kill prey when they are in the wild! It might be hard to think of your sweet furry friend doing that, but this sort of thing is ingrained in their DNA.
Shaking Toys
Only Eating In Private
Does your dog refuse to eat whenever they are in the presence of another human or dog? You might be shocked to hear the reason they do such a thing. They don’t want to share their chow with anyone else! We humans would not even think about touching dog food, but dogs clearly do not know this.
Only Eating In Private
Voluntarily Sleeping In His Crate
It might appear a little odd when your dog chooses to nap in his crate and not the couch or even the bed. However, some dogs consider the crate to be their bedroom! This is, after all, a place where they are at ease and comfortable since they spend the day there whenever you are not around. For them, this is the space they get to call their own.
Voluntarily Sleeping In His Crate
Kick When You Scratch Their Belly
A lot of pet owners find it adorable or funny whenever their dog kicks their feet into the air while getting a belly rub. The truth is that it is similar to when we get tickled! When they kick, it might be their scratch nerves letting them know that something is itchy. Whenever you notice that a dog kicks their legs into the air at a certain spot, you are better off moving over a little.
Kick When You Scratch Their Belly