This list comes from Animal Channel. When I saw it on Facebook, I felt that it was a MUST to share with my readers.
Keep in mind that we will never 100% know what our furry friends are thinking, but hopefully, now you are a bit closer to understanding the subtle and not so subtle clues they give you.
1) Puppy dog eyes
One of the most adorable things your dog does is give you those big puppy dog eyes. Though most people melt and reward this cuteness with a treat, this is your dog’s way of saying he loves and trusts you. (I’m sure he will appreciate the tasty morsel too!)
2) Awaiting your approval
If you find Fido looking at you before he is about to do something, this means he respects and desires your opinion. He understands you are in charge and does not like to upset you.
3) Squinting or blinking of the eyes
Source: clon_phoenix via Flickr
This means your pet wants attention and is ready to spend quality time with you. If you notice this behavior, check yourself. Have you been too busy to show her some love today? If so, make some time. It’s good for both of you!
4) Staring
You will notice even low maintenance dogs have a need for your attention. Here again, intense staring is not her way of being creepy. She just wants your affection.
5) Tongue out studying you
If you caught the opposite sex doing this to you, you might call the police. When a dog does this, it’s a sign they are relaxed, happy and mellow. This is usually their expression after getting the attention they crave!
6) Intense Eye Contact
Who doesn’t want to be the focus of a loved one’s attention? If you have a dog and he is making intense eye contact with you, he is focused on you and you alone. He is very alert to your expressions and what you want from him.
7) Open mouth with relaxed tail but high ears
If you catch your dog like this, it means she is neutral, relaxed and secure in her surroundings. If you are wondering when the best time to approach a strange dog is, it is when they are doing these things.
8) Straight pointed tail and forward ears
In this situation, your best friend is curious about something within his environment. Maybe he hears a new noise or smells something interesting. Either way, he is ready to play detective.
9) Loose floppy tongue
If her tongue is hanging out, she is feeling chill. This is a sign nothing is wrong in her world and everything is O.K.
10) Baring teeth, ears back and snarling
This one is obvious; however, it never hurts to remind people what an angry, aggressive dog looks like. If you encounter this, your dog is feeling threatened and giving warning to the enemy. Do not approach a dog in this state. Even if he is angry at something else, you run the risk of being bitten.
11) Rising bark
It’s play time! If your dog starts with a low bark and it gets higher toward the end, he cannot contain his excitement and he wants to play a game with you!
12) Howling
Have you ever noticed dogs howl at the most annoying times? Usually when a dog hears a high-pitched sound, like a siren or train whistle, they howl back. It is unclear if this is because they are annoyed, or it is causing their ears discomfort.
13) Low growl
If a dog is doing a low growl, she’s anxious and fearful. Any scared animal is unpredictable. Do not surprise her when her nerves are getting the best of her.
14) Crazy Legs/Dead Bug
If your dog is sleeping with all his limbs sticking up in the air (resembling a dead bug) he is submissive and vulnerable. Not all dogs sleep like this, but if yours does he is a laid back independent pup that feels secure in his surroundings.
15) Side Sleepers
Dogs don’t usually sleep on their sides for long, but it is a typical napping position for them. Dogs who do this often have strong familial bonds and a lot of trust in their “pack.” She is probably a carefree happy dog.
16) Superman
When a dog is sprawled out and laying on his belly, he is probably an energetic animal that has finally crashed. Most often puppies sleep like this, it allows them to pop back up and resume play time when they awake!
17) Passed Out
When a dog is passed out completely, laying on her back with her limbs drooping across her body, there is a good chance she is overheating. This is the best way for her to lay to cool off. If both paws are draped across her chest, she is saying “leave me alone.” Dogs need their beauty sleep too!
18) Belly curl
A dog sleeping on his belly with his paws either underneath him or out to his sides is not getting good quality sleep. In this position dogs can’t reach REM sleep because their muscles cannot fully relax. Gentle, shy dogs usually sleep like this.
19) The Fox
When a dog’s paws are underneath her and her tail is wrapped around to her face, she is probably cold. This position allows her to keep as much heat in as possible. If you were to visit a wolf den (not recommended!) you would see them sleeping like this. If the dog is not cold, she could be apprehensive.
20) Back to back
It’s so cute when you see two dogs sleeping back to back! It’s even sweeter when they sleep back to back with their owners! A dog will only do this with one of his “pack” members that he 100% trusts.
21) Wave your paws in the air like you just don’t care
If your dog is either standing or sitting and has both paws raised, she cares! She is probably trying her best to concentrate.
22) Giving gifts
If your dog brings you a gift, whether it’s a dead animal or your shoe, they are trying to make you happy. If your reaction is “ew” but you smile, I doubt he will be offended.
23) Post Dinner Cuddles
When a dog wants to snuggle up after a big meal, she is very comfortable with you.
24) Licking
Some people allow their pet to lick their faces while others get grossed out if they even lick their hands. Either way, when a dog licks you he is being submissive. He is easing some of his stress and showing you love.
25) Going crazy when you get home
“Finally, you’re here! I missed you all day!” If he could talk this is what he’d be saying or shouting rather. The wilder they get when you walk through the door the more excited to see you they are.
26) Helping himself to you bed
Ever come home to find your dog laying in your empty bed? This is a sign she wants to feel close to you when you were not there. Your bed has your scent, and well, it is rather comfortable.
27) Taking over your bed
When your dog joins you and your significant other in bed and tries to take up all the space, he trying to feel like part of the pack. I promise he is not trying to be annoying intentionally!
28) Kicking Their Feet After Pooping
After taking your dog out to do their “business,” you may have noticed that they kick up the grass and dirt behind them. Is it just strange dog behavior or is there an actual purpose? The reason might surprise you. Kicking their paws up in a backward motion is so much more than just wiping off a mess. Dogs have glands located in their paws that release unique pheromones; they often will rub or scratch their paws along the ground to release a “territorial scent.” This might explain why your dog might seemingly stop in their tracks to kick backward for a moment or two — they’re letting other dogs know that they’ve “claimed” the area. This type of behavior within canines is the way they establish a hierarchy and who is in charge within that territory. Much like urinating on objects in the area, releasing their pheromones through their paws lets other dogs know who’s boss. This behavior doesn’t only apply to the biggest or scariest dog — both Chihuahuas and German Shepherds alike perform this normal bathroom behavior. In fact, a previously dominant or alpha-dog may cease to scratch their paws on the ground if another dog has established a stronger presence. Another reason that dogs may engage in kicking up the dirt or grass after going potty may be the fact that they are literally trying to spread the scent of their “business” to more ground. Both male and female dogs engage in this type of behavior.
29) Butt Sniffing
We are going from the cute head tilt to the disgusting butt sniff. Why do they do this? A dog sniffing a butt is the equivalent of a human shaking a hand. They are saying, “Hi, it’s nice to meet you.” They are also trying to get to know the other dog or person they are sniffing.
30) Chasing their tail
You may laugh at your pup for chasing something he will likely not catch. More so, if he does catch it, it is going to be painful! Puppies do this because they do not realize the thing they are chasing is already theirs. Other dogs do this when they are in a confined space or feeling bored. Check you dog for fleas or have his anal glands checked if he does this regularly, it could be a sign of a problem.
31) Post Bath Energy
If your dog starts running around like a wild animal after she gets a bath, she probably hates being wet and is trying to dry off. She also may be relieved it’s over!
32) Staying right by your side
Most of us find this dog habit annoying and an invasion of your personal space. You must remember your four-legged family member is innately a pack animal, and desires to be close to his “pack.” That’s you!
33) Couch Trashing
If you ever come home to a couch that has been completely ransacked, your pup has separation anxiety. Most dogs get over this eventually, but in the meantime, take the time to walk him and get some of his energy out before you leave him alone.
34) Low front, mouth wide open and wagging tail
If this happens when you two are playing, it means he is truly having fun and enjoying himself. He is bowing to you as a thank you!
35) Rocking Horse
Likewise, when your dog makes like a rocking horse and moves from front to back, she is enjoying the current activity and wants it to continue.
36) Showing empathy
Your dog knows when you are upset, and he most likely wants to comfort you. They have their own ways of doing so, but if you are upset and he is sitting near you watching you, licking you or resting his head on you he is letting you know he is there for you. Dogs can read our body language and they don’t like it when we are upset!
37) Eating grass
Every dog owner has wondered why dogs do this and if it is normal. The good news is, it is normal. The bad news is they are lacking a specific nutrient in their diet, trying to improve their digestion or maybe trying to treat intestinal worms (worst case scenario). If it is a hot day, they may just be dehydrated.
*Not part of the original article: In my experience and another popular opinion is that dogs sometimes eat grass due to an upset tummy. The grass helps them to vomit.
38) Eating Poop
Source: Veterinary Secrets via YouTube
This one is very repulsive, but don’t worry he will survive! Dogs do this to keep their “territory” clean. They may eat their own, or other dog’s feces because they don’t want to poop where they eat. Mother dogs eat their puppies poo to keep them clean. Just because they won’t get sick does not mean you must let them do this!
*Not part of the original article: Some holistic vets who study species appropriate, biologically appropriate nutrition frequently attribute this behavior to inappropriate commercial food which is missing important nutrients and enzymes. Another issue is that many of the bad ingredients that the body cannot use is not properly digested and pass through. Sometimes the poop then has remnants that appeal to dogs like flavorings and other chemicals. In this case, the poop still has some flavor and other additives that a dog might be attracted to.
9) Butt scooting
Source: IFeelTheSpoops via Imgur
This one is funny until they are doing it on the carpet! If you see your dog dragging his behind across the ground, he may just have a dirty butt he is trying to clean. This could be an indication of worms or an anal gland problem so keep an eye on him.
*Not part of the original article: Many holistic vets are well-versed in species appropriate non-commercial nutrition and sometimes attribute this behavior to poor nutrition which affects the anal glands.
40) Hanging out a car window
This one is very common. She is taking in her surroundings and enjoying the plethora of new scents.
41) Humping
Another cringe worthy dog habit: humping someone or something. Take comfort knowing there is nothing sexual about it, dogs do this to show dominance.
42) Leaning on you
Leaning against you is a cry for attention. He is probably feeling neglected and wants some extra love.
43) Sits on your feet
By sitting on your feet, she is essentially marking her territory. She may be acting out of insecurity and trying to reinforce that you are there for her.
44) Hunched Over
This is a common behavior of a previously abused or attacked dog. By hunching over he is making himself small and unnoticeable. Make sure you are patient and gentle with him.
45) Fast wagging tail
She needs to be comforted if her tail is wagging super quickly with a short range of motion. She is feeling anxious and slight discomfort.
46) Fast tail wide range of motion
On the flip side, if her tail is going crazy but has a farther range of motion she probably wants to exercise and has lots of energy to burn!
47) Digging
This is a sign of boredom. Save your yard by making sure your dog gets daily exercise in the forms of fetch or walks!
48) Forward Ears
If a dog’s ears are pointed forward, she is focused on something right in front of her. She could be feeling a range of emotions; curiosity, fear, excitement or something else entirely.
49) Raising a single paw
Sometimes when a pooch sees something the interests him, he will raise a paw. He may also be hungry or in the mood to play. Someone pointed out that it could be due to something being lodged in the pads of a paw.
50) Yawning
Dogs yawn for the same reason people do. She may be bored, tired or she may have “caught” the yawn from you.
*Not part of the original article: I would like to add that yawning is sometimes an act that helps dogs relieve themselves from a stressful situation. I have seen my dogs yawning while being blow dried. They were yawning as a stress reliever as opposed to feeling relaxed.
51) Head tilt
This must be the cutest thing any dog can do. Dogs do not know how cute they are being when they do this, they are trying to hear better. When they tilt their head, they are adjusting their outer ear, so they can better focus on where a noise is coming from. She is being curious!
————————
*Asterisks indicate statements that I have added that are not part of the original article.
Sources:
| Marucci, Catherine. “50 Dog Behaviors, Sleeping Positions, And Faces And What They Mean.” Animal Channel, Animal Channel, 14 June 2018, http://news.animalchannel.co/50-dog-sleep-positions-other-actions-meanings/. |
19 thoughts on “50 Dog Behaviors, Sleeping Positions & Faces and What They Mean”
Hi loved looking at the different dog behavior s. Maybe too many at one time but most adorable. Now I need to remember what each position means
Hi there-
I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed the article! Dogs are quite incredible.
All the best
Janie
Rescue dog poos on carpet. After lwalk come in I go for shower then I come out he has even if leave in garden after walk 5min in house he why
Hi Brenda-
Thanks for visiting my website and for your question.
I have heard that there can be many reasons why a dog would do that. I am not sure, but I was wondering if you walk him long enough. Walking around trees, plants, and grass can entice a dog to do his business. It might also be helpful to walk him in areas that you think other dogs have peed or pooped. This way he can pick up scent from them and maybe mark territory.
I looked on a couple of websites that I like, but I couldn’t find anything specifically about it. I did see some information about crating. Crating creates a happy cave environment that dogs love IF it’s done properly. The crate needs to be the correct size for your dog. Your dog needs to be able stand, turn around, and lie down – no bigger than that. Sides, top, and back should be covered. The front door should not be covered. There should be a cushion inside and toys.
When you take a shower you can crate him then when you’re finished you can take him out of the crate, then take him out.
Keep me posted.
Warmly,
Janie
I have a 3year dog but ,he rub’s his butt up and down on my leg .can you tell me why? He a very good and happy dog
Hi Betsy-
This is something I’ve never heard of. I’m wondering if his butt itches him. Then again, if that were the case, he would be rubbing his butt against the floor. When dogs run their butt, cross the floor, more often than not it has to do with anal Sacs. 99% of the time such issues are related to diet.
I wish I could be of some help to you. I want to put a trainer might say. A trainer who is a behaviorist might know what that means. If you find out, I would love to know. Please keep me posted.
Warmly,
Janie
My granddaughter, a mixed Scottish terrier with Mexican Chihuahua. I’ve notice the little dog scratching himself behind the ear and afterwards licking himself
Hi Juanita-
Thank you for visiting my website and for your question. Very often, scratching and licking. Indicates a bad reaction to something. Usually it’s a reaction that is nutritionally-based. Changing the diet to a fresh food diet. Commercial dog food does not have natural nutrients as a raw diet has. Holistic fats have studied this in death, but unfortunately, conventional vets have no background in nutrition, and will probably prescribe medication.
I always recommend Barfworld. I have plenty of posts about nutrition and I highly recommend Barfworld for people who are beginners with raw feeding. Remember that dogs don’t cook their own food and they don’t eat kibble off the ground in the forest. They are not biologically designed for such food. BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food. Their number is 1-866-282-2273. Tell them that you know Janie Lerner from essentiallydogs.com and ask them if they can give you a discount. It doesn’t hurt to try. Your dog might detox from switching, so there might be a little bit of diarrhea. That’s part of the detox process. I would not be surprised if his issues resolved. I’m not a vet, but this is just personally what I would do and I’ve seen excellent results in as quickly as a month. You might want to consult a holistic vet who is well-versed in biologically appropriate feeding.
I’m only suggesting that that’s what I would do with my dogs and it might work well for you.
Warmly,
Janie
My husband has just been diagnoised. With diabetes. Ourdog. Would never leave his side and he was the only one that she would play with. But now she won’t go near him.she didn’t want to play any more.very strange WHY.
Hi Margaret-
When an individual’s blood sugar drops, there are spikes of the chemical isoprene in their breath. It is a guess that dogs are able to smell this change of chemical makeup on a person’s breath as they exhale.
I’ve heard of dogs clinging to humans when they sense illness, but I’ve never heard of a dog reacting through avoidance. with that said, I am sorry, but I can’t answer your question.
It might just be an anomaly. Could it be because your dog is so disturbed by the smell of that illness is my thought, but it’s merely my thought. When a dog to text illness, the dog undergoes stress, and concern for his person. Maybe that’s the way your dog is dealing with that stress. Those are just my guesses.
I’m sorry that I can’t be of help. I hope the diabetes condition resolves.
Warmly,
Janie
Hi. My Bentley has this thing. It’s happened twice now. He is laying down going to sleep and all of a sudden he jumps up runs to another part of the bed and lays down again. It’s almost as if he’s being bitten really hard and is startled. Or maybe he’s got a tummy ache and is having cramps. Not sure.
Hi Teresa-
Thank you for your question. That behavior sounds very odd. I have no idea except the possibility of having a bad dream.
Good luck with it. If you find out what he’s up to, please share.
Warmly,
Janie
I’m on my 3rd rescue dog the last being a rottweiler one beautiful exceptional boy. My current dog a gsd x malinois was not treated too well before he came to me. We had a few issues but now he’s affectionate but sometimes aloof. He will back away if my hand moves towards his head but relaxes when I place my hand under his chin then I can stroke his head he will never feel pain by my hand so does this behaviour indicate being hurt by previous owner? I’d like to hear your thoughts on this
Hi Angi-
Thank you for writing. First off, many dogs feel uncomfortable when strangers move to touch their heads immediately (without allowing them to sniff first. For most dogs, going under the mouth is the best way to pet a dog initially. Afterwards your hand can migrate up to the top of his head.
It’s a possibility that there was abuse, but I don’t know. It might be just discomfort with a person’s hand going in front of his face. It makes some dogs feel vulnerable. A trainer would probably be able to get a better idea of what’s going on.
Thanks again for writing
Warmly,
Janie
Hi Janie,
My six year old St. Bernoodle was a rescue. She had been isolated and neglected the first three years of her life. She’s a very sweet girl now who craves my contact and just can’t get enough of my attention. She has an odd habit though of laying with both front legs across my chest whenever she jumps up into bed. I’m not sure if it’s a show of affection or an attempt at asserting dominance. Any insights?
Hi Jim-
First of all, I want to thank you for visiting my website.
I’m really not well-versed when it comes to behavior, although I do know some things, I would surely not consider myself to be knowledgeable. I get the impression though that your dog is seeking comfort from you. Sometimes rescues could be a little bit needy and see attention and is all contact. Seeking attention and affection in that way is just my guess.
Warm,
Janie
I enjoyed this article and it was very informative. I would add one other possible reason for #49 raising a single paw and that would be a goat-head or thorn in their paw or something possibly lodged between the toes.
Hi John-
Thank you so much for your comment. That is certainly a possibility. Thanks to you, I modified the Description of that behavior.
Warmly,
Janie
This information is really helpful because now I konw why my do eats her poop and why she raises her paw ☺️