Man's best friends have a lot going for them. They get to enjoy a sense of smell that's 40 times better than ours and noses that are adept at sniffing out everything from a choice piece of meat to cancer. They can also sniff at the same time as breathing, a nifty trick that must make them fun at parties. And they sweat through their paws, so they never need to worry about deodorant, unlike humans.
These and many other things make dogs pretty awesome creatures to have around. But raising a dog is only fun when you know how to communicate with them. This collection of tips explains everything from everyday habits to obscure signs, all things every true dog lover should know.
How to Read Puppy Dog Eyes
The term "puppy dog eyes" is popular because humans have co-opted this canine habit to express sadness. But what if this is just a way for dogs to manipulate their owners into being more attentive?
It's easy to pull off puppy dog eyes. All a dog has to do is raise their brow and make their eyes appear more expansive and sadder. And since it's so effective, studies show that many pets use it to receive love and affection whenever they want.
NEXT: Here's a sure sign that your dog is seeking approval.
When Dogs Want Approval
Most animals are self-governing and capable of making meaningful choices. But when they become domesticated, they're also good at adapting to the new situation. So they learn to cozy up to their owners to avoid upsetting them.
Take dogs, for example. It's very easy to tell when a dog loves and respects its owner because it'll make a habit of looking at them when it's about to do something. So take those brief but constant glances for what they mean.
NEXT: Who says canines can't squint too?
What Do Squinty Eyes Mean?
Body language is not static, and one expression may mean many things. Still, dog owners stand to gain a lot from paying attention to their pet's eyes. Canines use their eyes to express different moods.
So a dog squinting and gazing into the distance may wish to display its confidence and contentment. But dogs also squint when they're being scolded in a bid to shield themselves from the weight of your anger. Other times, a squint may be a sign that a pup wants attention.
NEXT: Don't be scared of the creepy stare until you know what it means.
When a Dog Stares Too Hard
It's okay to find it creepy when a dog stares too hard at things or people. After all, we humans find it somewhat disrespectful when people stare too. But not to worry, when dogs do it, it's because they're fascinated by a person or thing.
There are also times when the constant staring is a sign that your canine has seen, heard, or seen something, and they're trying to figure it out. However, older dogs may stare often due to a cognitive dysfunction similar to Alzheimer's in humans.
NEXT: Licking can serve different purposes. Here's all you should know.
Why Dogs Love Licking
The constant licking may gross out people who aren't fond of dogs. But it's just a natural instinct for these furry creatures. Licking leads to the release of endorphins and dopamine which help dogs feel more relaxed and motivated.
But that's not all. Dogs may lick humans to try to soothe themselves in stressful situations, get attention, or show affection and empathy. Sometimes they do it because you taste good!
NEXT: Fear not; this is a sure sign of satisfaction.
Deciphering the Tongue Out Expression
Relaxation is the best word to describe why dogs like to have their tongues sticking out of their mouths. Tongue tip protrusion is an instinctive canine reaction that signifies contentment and satisfaction.
But there's more to it. Did you know that dogs sweat through their paws and tongues? They tend to leave their tongues hanging out to cool down when their body heats up due to exercise or regular temperature changes.
NEXT: Here's the canine version of "Speak master, for thy servant heareth."
What About Intense Eye Contact?
Everyone wants to be seen and understood. So being the focus of a loved one's unbridled attention feels heavenly. If prolonged eye contact is a sign of bonding and emotional commitment in humans, what does it mean when dogs do it?
The answer is clear-cut. Dogs often stare intensely at their owners to show they're alert and ready to obey instructions. Of course, the mutual staring also releases oxytocin—the love hormone—which boosts feelings of trust.
NEXT: Here's another way to tell when a dog is relaxed.
Relaxed Tail and High Ears
People who've had one or two encounters with aggressive dogs are bound to stay away from canines in the future. But knowing the right time to approach a dog can go a long way in preventing unfortunate situations.
The tail and ears can tell much about a pup's state of mind. When dogs adopt a neutral stance with a relaxed tail and high ears, they likely feel secure in their environment and wouldn't mind being approached.
NEXT: Another dog body language canine lovers should know.
Pointed Tail and Forward Ears
One can always read curiosity in a dog by paying attention to its ears. When dogs are alert and curious about a scent or noise in their environment, they'll point their ears up and even cock their head in one direction.
Pay attention, and you'll see that their ears tip toward the person or object that piqued their interest. If they have a stiff tail that wags slowly from side to side, then it may point to some underlying anxiety.
NEXT: Here's a more obvious yet necessary tip.
The Blatant Aggression of Bared Teeth
A dog that bares its teeth and snarls or growls means business and shouldn't be trifled with. After all, that's the number one sign of aggression in canines. It bears wondering what could make them get that upset in the first place.
Fear, pain, and overstimulation are a few factors that inspire dog aggression. And the bared teeth are a sign that they will resort to biting soon. What is the best thing to do? Avoid eye contact and carefully step away.
NEXT: It's cute when dogs do this, but what does it mean?
The Head Tilt
All dog owners would agree that it's cute when dogs do the head tilt. It's a sign that's more common among social dogs who enjoy spending time with humans. Such dogs do the head tilt to show that they enjoy the interaction and want to prolong the human context.
Scientists studying the head cocking behavior have determined that the act could also signify that a pup is trying to match a name to a visual image in its head.
NEXT: How to decode this kind of bark.
How to Read Rising Barks
Barks can sometimes be one of the most annoying things to deal with as a dog owner. Knowing that it's one of many ways canines communicate doesn't help, especially when it seems a dog is barking at nothing.
Luckily, the rising bark does mean something—excitement. A rising bark comprises a series of barks that slowly move from midrange to a much higher pitch. It's a sure sign of excitement and shouldn't inspire worry.
NEXT: That awkward moment when dogs play wolf.
Dealing With a Howling Dog
Remember how vocal communication is a big deal to dogs? Well, they don't just bark; they howl. Sometimes they do it to attract attention and signify they want to play; other times, they do it to announce their presence.
There are other times when canines get creative and howl in response to high-pitched sounds, such as musical instruments, loud songs on the TV, or even emergency sirens. It gets annoying after a while.
NEXT: Three reasons why your dog could be growling at you.
When Dogs Let Out Low Growls
It's funny how so many dog mannerisms would be signs of trouble in humans. They may be man's best friend, but they're unlike humans in many ways. Take the low growl, for example. It's one of the most common forms of dog expression.
A low growl could mean a dog is happy and content—some even say it sounds just like a cat's purr. The low growl could always be a sign of warning and impending danger. Finally, the low growl could mean your dog is expressing discomfort.
NEXT: We call it crazy, but dogs just want to have fun.
Why's It Called Crazy Legs?
It's hard to say when we all decided to call this sleeping position crazy legs. But it does seem weird that a dog would choose to lie on its back with all four legs stretched at crazy angles, doesn't it?
If your dog does this, be grateful. Dogs expose their belly as an optimum sign of submission and vulnerability. So a dog that sleeps this way feels comfortable in its environment and trusts its owner completely.
NEXT: What does it mean when dogs sleep this way?
Is Side Sleeping Normal?
Dr. Stanley Green, a Professor in the Psychology Department at the University of British Columbia, explains that when a dog lies down to sleep and begin to dream—yes, they do that too—its muscles will relax, often leading to the side sleeping position.
This sleeping posture is perfectly normal and even shows that a dog feels relaxed and comfortable in its environment. It's also the most likely position for dogs to reach REM sleep.
NEXT: This is what happens when a dog cosplays a superhero.
What's up With the Superman Pose?
We call this sleeping position "Superman" because it mirrors how the popular superhero arranges his limbs before he flies into the sky. But it also goes by other names, frogging or the sploot.
The Superman position occurs when a dog lays flat on its stomach with its front and back legs stretched out. Of course, even cats sleep in this position sometimes. When a dog does this, it's a sign that they're trying to cool down.
NEXT: Here's another sign that your dog's body heat is up.
When a Dog Is Passed Out
Know that moment at night when the room gets hotter than usual, and you throw off the blankets to cool down? Some may even turn onto their backs and spread out on the bed to feel more comfortable.
Well, this is the doggy version of it. If a dog passes out on its back, keeping its belly exposed and paws in the air, it could mean either of two things. They're trying to lower their body heat or are simply comfortable in their surroundings.
NEXT: This sleeping position may be a sign of trouble.
When Dogs Do the Belly Curl
The tummy/belly curl is called that because the dog sleeps on its belly and crunches all four paws underneath. Sometimes the paws may extend to the sides but never fully. It's an uncomfortable way to sleep because the muscles never fully relax.
The belly curl is the domain of most shy dogs. So you may find a pup yet to learn to be comfortable in the home taking naps this way. Unfortunately, this position prevents dogs from reaching REM sleep.
NEXT: What's up with this sleep position?
This Is Called the Fox
Some prefer to call this the fox, while others call it the donut. The name of this sleeping position hardly matters much, though. It's a dog's favorite way to regulate body temperature while protecting vital organs.
The idea behind the fox is for a canine to make itself small to retain as much heat as possible. Dogs who sleep in this way are considered gentle and sweet. However, most creatures in the wild, like wolves, also adopt this sleep position.
NEXT: This happens when dogs form a special bond.
When Dogs Sleep Back-to-Back
One of the cutest things a dog can do is sleep back-to-back with another creature! Back-to-back sleep is common among dogs with special bonds with their humans. But it is okay to see them do it with other canines.
Dogs have a pack mentality, so they'll only sleep this way if they are entirely comfortable with the dog or human. So don't be afraid to cuddle with your pup when it shows interest.
NEXT: This isn't crazy legs; it's a sign of concentration.
A Sign of Concentration
Dogs have so many quirky behaviors, but this one takes the cake. Dog owners are often puzzled when their furry friend lifts one paw when sitting or standing for no reason. But many believe they do this when they're trying to focus.
The idea is that holding up a paw helps dogs create a stable base for themselves and focus better on what they're trying to do. It's also a clear sign that they prefer to be left alone.
NEXT: Dogs are gift-givers. Better get used to it.
When Dogs Bring Bounties
Gift-giving is a big part of every relationship, be it familial, platonic or romantic. When you care about someone, there's this urge to provide things that'll make them happy. And humans aren't the only creatures with this instinct.
Of course, it's weird when a dog brings a dead animal or a chewed-up toy to you. But don't be upset, just smile in thanks. It's the canine way of showing affection to humans. Sometimes it also means they're in the mood to play.
NEXT: A happy dog will do this.
A True Sign of Comfort
Dogs may not have evolved enough to speak, but we can still tell what they're thinking thanks to science. If your furry friend comes up to you licking its chops after eating the last bite of food in the bowl, you're one of the lucky ones.
Dogs do this when they want to show how grateful they are for the meal. It's even better when they want to cuddle after dinner. The way neuroscientist and author Gregory Berns puts it, it's a sign dogs find you essential.
NEXT: Going home is always a happy event when you're a dog owner.
Why Dogs Give the Best Welcomes
Everyone who's ever lived with a dog can attest to this; canines give the best welcomes. Unlike felines, who are intensely independent, dogs are social creatures who find joy in being in the presence of their humans.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and separation anxiety causes dogs to feel sad and uncomfortable at the thought of being alone in the house. So when their humans return home, they can't contain the excitement.
NEXT: Another way to tell when a dog misses you.
When a Dog Takes Over the Bed
This brings us back to dogs and their pack mentality. They have the instinct to eat, sleep, live, and even travel in close quarters at all times and don't distinguish between humans and fellow dogs regarding this instinct.
Ever returned back from work to find your dog snuggled under the covers or a heap of clothes in your bed? It's another sign of separation anxiety. Such a dog hasn't gotten used to being alone, so it immerses itself in human scent to feel better.
NEXT: Here's one of many weird poop habits dogs have.
This Post-poop Habit
All creatures poop; that's not news. However, dogs have a thousand and one ways to make the affair much more interesting. Here's an answer if you've noticed a dog kick after taking a poop and wondered why.
It's called ground scratching, and not all dogs exhibit this behavior. The kicking motion may be an attempt to mark territory and intimidate other dogs. The slashes left on the ground from their paws also serve as visual markers.
NEXT: Making sense of this puzzling habit.
The Rear-end Sniff
Dog owners tend to react with a mix of outrage and embarrassment when pets sniff other dogs' rear ends. But to canines, it's simply another way to communicate with the creatures they meet outdoors.
Dogs sniff as a form of greeting and to obtain relevant information. The smell tells them if another canine is ill, aggressive, or friendly. It also serves as a calming mechanism helping them relieve stress in unfamiliar situations.
NEXT: Reasons why you should be worried about a dog chasing its tail.
Why Dogs Chase Their Tails
Almost everyone knows that dogs enjoy chasing their tails due to boredom, as it is a form of physical and mental stimulation. But this quirky habit may also indicate an underlying medical condition.
A dog that obsessively chases its tail could be experiencing seizures or dealing with an infection. Tail chasing could also be a symptom of anxiety. After all, such repetitive behaviors can serve as stress relief for canines who experience discomfort.
NEXT: Making sense of this crazy post-bath ritual.
When Every Bath Ends Like This
Bath time with dogs hardly differs from bath time with babies or toddlers. It will end with water splattered all over the bathroom and a drenched human. But should you be worried when dogs become overexcited after a bath?
The answer is no. The vigorous shaking dogs exhibit isn't odd behavior. It's just their way of drying off. If shaking doesn't work, they'll even jump onto the carpet, couch, or bed and roll around until they dry off.
NEXT: Why dogs don't understand the concept of personal space.
Dealing With a Bathroom Companion
Pack mentality and pure animal instinct come into play once again. Dogs sometimes have a poor concept of personal space, so they trail after their humans when they want to use the toilet. Of course, it can get uncomfortable pretty fast.
The term "Velcro dogs" describes canines that fall into this category as it explains their desire to be glued to a human's side all the time. But don't be too upset; they're just trying to protect you from the horrors of the bathroom.
NEXT: Imagine coming home to meet this!
Why Do Dogs Do This?
Separation anxiety may play out in cute ways, like getting lavish licks and excessive excitement after a long day away from home or finding your pup huddled in your bed. But it can also show up like this.
Dogs who get destructive when left alone usually feel the weight of their owner's absence. Rather than spend hundreds of dollars replacing furniture, carve out time for daily exercise, invest in durable chew toys, and consider daycare.
NEXT: Figure out what this low front, wagging tail pose means.
Reading the Play Bow
When a dog bends its chest low in this position and wags its tail, it's doing a play bow. This is an express invitation to play, which dogs may use when meeting another dog for the first time. It lets the other dog know it has good intentions.
This is particularly helpful considering how aggressive dog play tends to get. So if the body checks, ear nibbles, and the rough fight get too intense, look out for the play bow.
NEXT: Notice this funny gait in a dog? Here's what it means.
When Dogs Play Rocking Horse
It's best to pay attention once a dog picks up the habit of swaying back and forth like a rocking horse. It could be a quirky sign of playfulness or vestibular disease. The vestibular system controls balance, and when the system fails, it causes dogs to become off balance.
Another way to know when the connection between a dog's brain and inner ear is malfunctioning is to look out for head tilts, unwillingness to move around, and reduced appetite.
NEXT: How dogs deal with upset humans.
How Dogs Show Empathy
Isn't it wonderful that therapy dogs exist? These canines are trained to provide affection and support to people with various mental or physical conditions. It also tells us all we need to know about the canine capacity to understand human feelings.
Dogs are good at reading body language, so when their human is upset, they get upset too. They try to offer comfort by sitting close by, resting their head on you, or licking you as a self-soothing mechanism.
NEXT: Can dogs be vegetarian?
When Dogs Go Vegetarian
There's a widespread misconception that dogs are primarily carnivorous animals but actually omnivores. But despite their preference for meat, they can survive on a vegan or vegetarian diet if they get the right supplements.
But unlike cows, dogs do not have an instinctual need to graze. So if a dog chooses to eat grass, chances are it lacks roughage in its diet, which can affect its ability to digest food and pass stool.
NEXT: This is one repulsive habit that dog owners may never get used to.
There's a Lot to Unpack Here
One of the habits that give dogs a bad rep is eating poop. The scientific name for this phenomenon is coprophagia. And while we humans find it abhorrent, dogs don't see it that way.
When mother dogs do it, it's to clean up their pups, and this usually happens during the first three weeks after birth. But the puppies mimic this behavior. However, it could point to anxiety, isolation, or an underlying health condition when grown dogs do it.
NEXT: Do this next time you see a dog dragging its behind across the ground.
When Dogs Go Scooting
When dogs scoot, it means one thing and one thing alone; they're experiencing discomfort in their nether region. Now, such pain may range from a simple itch to irritation, allergies, and problems with the rectal gland.
According to vets, dogs scoot to relieve the soreness in their rectal glands. It also helps to look out for symptoms like chewing or licking at the tail's bottom, thighs, or base. And if you detect a strong fishy odor, pay a visit to the vet.
NEXT: This is why dogs enjoy hanging their heads from car windows.
Why Dogs Love Car Rides
A car ride may be enjoyable to humans because driving at top speed and feeling the breeze in our hair is fun. But dogs enjoy the experience for entirely different reasons. Remember how canines have a stronger sense of smell?
When a car is moving at high speed, it allows dogs to pick up many new scents. They hang their heads out of car windows because it makes it easier to enjoy the pleasurable sensory overload of multiple smells.
NEXT: This is why dogs hump people and other dogs.
The Cringey Hump
Vets call it mounting behavior when a dog puts its front legs around another dog and repeatedly thrusts in a humping motion. It isn't very pleasant for dog owners to witness. Still, unfortunately, it's simply another instinctive behavior that dogs can't help but engage in.
Of course, it's a shared belief that such an act hints at something indecent. The truth is humping is not always triggered by hormones. Dogs do it during play or when they're excited about hanging out with another dog or their favorite person.
NEXT: Watch out for this; it's a cry for attention.
When a Dog Leans
Like many habits on this list, leaning is another way for dogs to show that they feel neglected or require physical attention. Smaller dogs have it better because they can easily be picked up and cuddled whenever they want.
But bigger dogs lack that privilege, so they prefer to get close and lean all their weight on you. It's a harmless behavior and nothing to worry about. It just means the dog wants to be affectionate.
NEXT: Reasons why a dog might sit on your feet.
Marking a New Territory
As highly territorial animals, dogs often exhibit behaviors that show they consider you a member of their pack. Sitting on the legs of humans is one way for canines to make their territory and guard their owners against perceived threats.
That's not all, though. Dogs may take up this position when they're feeling anxious about being in the presence of a stranger, or it could be a sign that they want to be picked up and cuddled.
NEXT: This is what fear does to canines.
Deciphering the Hunch
It's easy to tell when a dog is uncomfortable and afraid by how it holds itself. You may notice that its body is tense and stiff. Scared dogs will also tuck their head in, arch their back and tuck their tail between their legs.
The hunch is often accompanied by shaking, which is a sure sign that a dog is triggered by loud noises, sudden movement, or unfamiliar people—or it's injured and trying to nurse the pain.
NEXT: The faster the wag, the more excited a dog is.
The Fast Wagging Tail
Tail wags can mean different things, and a dog's tail position can signify anything from negotiation and submission to aggression and excitement. The rapid tail wag, or flagging, is a sure sign of excitement.
A dog may do the fast wag when it's alone with you or in the company of other dogs. But whatever the situation, such energetic enthusiasm means they're happy and excited and want everyone to know this. Dogs could also do this when they have lots of energy to burn.
NEXT: Your dog is bored if it does this.
Why Dogs Dig
No, your dog isn't intentionally trying to mess up the landscaping; it just requires stimulation. Dogs find digging entertaining, especially when left alone for long periods without company. It may be a sign of attention-seeking behavior or an effort to hunt prey.
Remember that digging may also occur when dogs need shelter from cold or rain. In this case, the canine will probably make holes near a large shade of trees or the foundation of a building and lie in them afterward.
NEXT: Things everyone should know about dog ears.
The Wonder of Dog Ears
Yes, your dog has excellent hearing and is probably the first to notice the sound of the doorbell. Dogs also use their ears to express a range of emotions.
Excitement is visible in a dog with perked ears. On the other hand, if a dog perks its ears and angles its hind legs behind, it's alert. A submissive or scared dog will pull its ears back until plastered to the sides of its head, while a dominant dog will have them up and forward.
NEXT: This is one of the first signs of stress in dogs.
If a Dog Raises a Single Paw
It's best not to confuse this with when a dog lifts its paws for improved focus. This paw lift happens when a dog is feeling conflicted or anxious. You'll notice that it'll also appear more tentative as if the canine is uncertain.
This behavior may occur with a dog that hasn't socialized much with people or is approached by an unfamiliar dog. Dogs in such situations will fit their paw while standing in a tense pose.
NEXT: Dogs yawn, too, and that's okay.
A Yawning Dog
Yawning is perfectly normal in dogs. But unlike humans, canine yawns do not only signify boredom or exhaustion. Studies show that yawning plays a role in stimulating a dog's nervous system.
Neuroscientists also discovered that yawns may come at transitions like moving from comfort to alertness or from an anxious to a calm state. Dogs also yawn when stressed. This would explain why they yawn when entering the vet's office or when strange people are approaching.
NEXT: Why should you worry about head-shaking?
When a Dog Shakes Aggressively
First, dogs shake their heads for so many reasons. Usually, it's a way to get things like water, an insect, or some other object out of the ears. Dogs also shake their heads repeatedly to relieve itchiness, but if this continues for over a day, make an appointment with the vet.
Apart from having objects stuck in the ear, aggressive and excessive head shakes in dogs could indicate a neurological disorder or inflammatory disease.
NEXT: Here are some reasons why dogs lick their lips.
Dogs Lick Their Lips Too
Humans and dogs alike have a habit of lip licking, and it's harmless. But what if there's more to it than the anticipation of a meal or treat? Dogs may lick their lips to get rid of food or debris stuck in their mouths.
A dog may lick its lips to calm down in stressful situations or signal anxiety. Of course, excessive licking may indicate that a canine is nauseous and a couple of seconds away from hurling.
NEXT: Why dogs whine and how you can stop it.
A Prolonged Whimper
Some people find the odd whine and whimper cute, but it gets annoying when it goes on for long periods. But to stop a dog from whimpering, you have to understand why they do it in the first place.
It could be that they need something—a toy, some food, a walk. They could also be bored and in the mood for attention. Dogs often whine and whimper because they're nervous or in pain. There's also the whimper that comes as an apology for past wrongdoing.
NEXT: Mayday, mayday, this is not a play bow.
Dealing With a Crouching Dog
It's common knowledge that dogs crouch when doing the play bow. But when a dog crouches low on the ground when it sees other dogs approaching, it should be a cause for worry.
It may be a sign of fear; all animals try to make themselves look smaller and less threatening in the face of danger. Dogs may also crouch to better observe the approaching dog to determine whether they're dangerous.
NEXT: Pacing and circling are normal until it's not.
When a Dog Paces
It's so weird how dogs may behave in specific ways, and it seems normal. Then something happens, and that normal behavior becomes a worrying sign. It's the same with pacing. Dogs do it when they want to urinate or investigate an unfamiliar scene.
But when pacing occurs without the usual triggers, it could hint at an underlying condition. Compulsive pacing may be accompanied by confusion and disorientation, changes in sleeping habits, and odd gait. This is how you know it's time to call the vet.
NEXT: The universal "please don't hurt me" sign in canines.
The Tail Tuck
Pay attention, and you'll notice that canines tuck their tails between their legs in the presence of more dominant dogs or people. It's the clearest sign of submission. However, it may also be confusing when the dogs are greyhounds with their naturally tucked tails.
What if a pup does the nail tuck when no one is around? That could mean the dog suffers from physical pain or some other ailment.
NEXT: This is what it means when a dog begins to sniff the air.
The Habit of Sniffing
Sometimes having a dog is like having a walking, barking sensor. Thanks to a sense of smell that's more advanced than humans, dogs can perceive things long before their owners notice. So a dog may begin sniffing the air because it can hear someone approaching or sense a change in atmosphere.
Sniffing may also be an attempt to determine the source of a tasty treat. But there's a bad side to the sniffing habit, as it may indicate the onset of a canine cognitive dysfunction in older dogs.