Dogs are incredibly smart and loving animals. I mean, there’s a reason why we call them ‘man’s best friend,’ right? And as amazing as they are, they can’t speak to us using their words. Thankfully, they know how to communicate in other ways.
Here are 47 dog behaviors and why they do them.
Knowing these could improve your relationship with your pup.
Source:
Shareably
1. Patiently waiting
If you look down and notice your dog is standing and looking at you in a non-threatening way, it means that they are waiting. They are waiting for your approval, more specifically. Dogs are pretty obedient and they understand that you are the boss, so they don’t want to disrespect you.
Source:
Flickr
2. The superman
This is a common pose for younger puppies in particular. This typically means that you have a high energy pup on your hands and they have finally crashed. It also makes it easier for them to jump right back up and start playing again. On their belly, with all legs flared out, it’s pretty dang cute.
Source:
Animal Channel
3. Passed out
If your dog is passed out on their back, this could mean that they are overheating. If their two front paws are up by their chest, it means that they are really tired. It also means that they feel safe, since it is a pretty vulnerable position.
Source:
Animal Channel
4. Rising bark
If your dog has a bark that starts lower and then gets higher toward the end, it is likely they are trying to engage you. Basically, it’s playtime! They are feeling playful and want to swing a few toys around.
Source:
Animal Channel
5. Puppy dog eyes
Is this not the cutest thing ever? Everyone loves it when their dogs flash their puppy eyes, and all it really means is love. They are trying to show their affection and let you know that they love you.
Source:
Animal Channel
6. Side sleeper
Sleeping on their side is pretty common for most dogs. It could mean that they are overall pretty content. It can also mean that they run as part of a “pack” and have strong bonds.
Source:
Animal Channel
7. Straight pointed tail, forward ears
If you find your dog in this specific stance, it could mean that he or she has heard a sound a smelled something that has sparked their curiosity. They’re basically playing detective. They want to figure out what it is that is suddenly on their radar.
Source:
Animal Channel
8. Open mouth, relaxed tail and high ears
This is a pretty neutral stance for dogs, despite the mixed signals. Yes, the ears are high and the tail is relaxed, but that really all just even each other out. They feel secure and relaxed.
Source:
Animal Channel
9. Low growl
If your dog is lowly growling under their breath, you might want to think twice before approaching them. This could mean that they were getting ready to pounce, or something is upsetting them. This could also mean that they are feeling threatened.
Source:
Animal Channel
10. Squinting
Squinting is another fairly common behavior among dogs. This means that they are trying to get your attention. They are feeling needy and want your love, so definitely give them some of the spotlight!
Source:
Flickr
11. Belly curl
Dogs that are gentle and shy tend to sleep like this — on their stomachs with their legs and/or paws tucked under. However, it could also mean that your dog is not getting good quality sleep. This position makes it hard for the muscles to relax.
Source:
Animal Channel
12. Howling
Your dog is mostly annoyed at something if he or she is howling. Things like a doorbell or an ambulance are all enough to set them off on a howling spree. It could also be because the sound is hurting their ears.
Source:
Animal Channel
13. The Fox
If your dog is sleeping sort of on their side, curled up in a ball with their paws tucked in front of their face, this could mean that they are cold. This is how they are trying to use their body heat to stay warm. But if they are not cold, it could mean that they are feeling apprehensive.
Source:
Animal Channel
14. Crazy legs and/or dead bug
If your dog is sleeping on their back with their back legs spread wide open, that means they feel comfortable. Whatever environment they are in, they feel safe. No threatening vibes here.
Source:
Animal Channel
15. Sleeping back to back
Sometimes you might see your pup sleeping back to back, whether it’s with another dog or a person. Either way, it’s adorable and it means they feel like they can trust whoever it is they are sleeping against. They see them as part of the pack.
Source:
Flickr
16. Loose floppy tongue
Ever see your dog’s floppy tongue hanging out of their mouth and freak out? Totally normal response… But rest assured, this is a super regular behavior. It just means your dog is happy and comfortable!
Source:
Animal Channel
17. Paws in the air
If you see your dog with their paws out in the air, it means they are trying to focus on something. Whatever it is that they see, they are trying to concentrate on it.
Source:
Animal Channel
18. Gift giver
Maybe your dog has brought you your shoe or a dead animal. It can seem like a weird, and sometimes gross, act. When it boils down to it though, that is a gift in their eyes. They are trying to give you gifts to show you that they love and care about you.
Source:
Animal Channel
19. The excitement when you’re home
If you have a dog, chances are that you’ve seen them get excited when you come home. This is obviously so normal, and it means that they’re, well, excited that you’re home. They’ve been alone and need some love and affection — definitely give them attention!
Source:
Animal Channel
20. Post-dinner snuggles
Sometimes your dog might try to cuddle up to you after dinner. That’s because they are literally just trying to get closer and feel some affection. They’re feeling cozy!
Source:
Animal Channel
21. Bare teeth, snarling, ears back
Don’t approach, as this is the behavior of an aggressive dog. They are feeling threatened and will most likely pounce if they are provoked. It may seem obvious to some people, but here’s another reminder to beware.
Source:
Animal Channel
22. Sleeping in your bed
It’s no secret that dogs have a mighty fine sense of smell. If they are sleeping in your bed, it means they are trying to get close to you and your bed smells like you, so it helps. It’s also just really comfy.
Source:
Animal Channel
23. Licking
This is a dog behavior you are probably very familiar with. If your dog licks your face, it means he is submissive. It could also mean that they are trying to relieve some stress.
Source:
Animal Channel
24. Staring
Similar to licking, staring is also very normal. This means that they are trying to get your attention. They probably just want some lovin’!
Source:
Wikimedia
25. Tail chasing
Sometimes we see this in cartoons, but it happens in real life too! If a younger dog is chasing their tail, they probably don’t realize that the tail is already theirs. If it is an older dog, it probably means that they are feeling bored and restless!
Source:
Woof Report
26. Post bath mood
Dogs can act a little crazy after you give them a bath. This is because they hate baths. If you see them shaking and rubbing up against blankets or towels, it’s because they’re trying to dry off.
Source:
Flickr
27. Tongue sticking out
Ever look down to find your dog staring at you with their tongue hanging out of their mouth? Yeah, totally normal. That just means they are feeling relaxed!
Source:
Flickr
28. Leaning
Leaning against you isn’t always a good thing. It could be them telling you they feel neglected. You need to give them attention!
Source:
Animal Channel
29. Butt sniffing
Here’s another common behavior that seems super weird but is actually so normal! The “butt sniff” is equivalent to the handshake. It’s how dogs say hello and get to know one another!
Source:
Flickr
30. Head tilt
This just looks like an adorable gesture, but it’s actually your dog being a good listener. He or she is trying to understand what you’re saying, or a sound they hear. It helps them hear well!
Source:
PetMD
31. Staying by your side
Yes, this means even when you’re doing something a little more private, like going to the bathroom. Boundaries? What are they? This sweet gesture simply means that they are feeling clingy and want to be close to you!
Source:
Animal Channel
32. Destroying the couch
Ever come home to a destroyed couch? It stinks, but there’s a reason for it. It usually means that your dog had separation anxiety while you were gone. Taking them for a walk before you leave can help lessen the blow.
Source:
Animal Channel
33. Low front, mouth open, wagging tail
This position means that your dog is having a lot of fun. You guys are probably playing. They are enjoying themselves and they have energy.
Source:
Animal Channel
34. Rocking horse
Sometimes your dogs’ legs will rock back and forth, making a rocking horse motion. This is a movement that usually means they are just having fun and enjoying themselves!
Source:
Animal Channel
35. Eating their own poop
While it’s horribly disgusting, it is perfectly normal. Young puppies will eat their own poop in attempt to keep their territory “clean.” Mother dogs also eat their babies’ poop in order to keep them clean.
Source:
Youtube
36. Showing empathy
Dogs actually have pretty great intuitions and can tell when their owner is angry or upset. Because they love you, they will go out of their way to lick your face and give you comfort. They want to show their support.
37. Eating grass
It’s not too strange to see your dog eating grass. There can be times where this means that they are having digestion issues though. It can also mean that they are deficient in a nutrient.
Source:
Dogster
38. Butt scoot
It’s all fun and games… Until your dog butt scoots on your brand-new carpet. This could mean that they are trying to clean their butts. Keep an eye on it though because if they do it often, it could mean they have worm or gland issues.
Source:
Jim's Dog Wash
39. Intense eye contact
This means that your dog wants to look at you and only you. You are the most important person at the party. This can also mean they are paying close attention to everything you do and say.
Source:
Animal Channel
40. Head out of a car window
This means dogs are having a fun time and enjoying themselves! It also means that they are busy taking in all of the tasty scents around them. This is definitely something we’ve seen in the movies — so cute!
Source:
Barf World
41. Sitting on your feet
This could mean that your dog is feeling a little bit insecure. They are trying to get you to give them love as some reassurance. They’ve only got eyes for you!
Source:
Animal Channel
42. Hunched over
When your dog is hunched over, they are trying to make themselves smaller and less noticeable. This is usually the action of a dog who has been neglected or abused, so they are very apprehensive. It’s important that you are extra gentle with them in this state.
Source:
Animal Channel
43. Humping
There’s actually nothing sexual about this. This is just your dog’s way of asserting their dominance. Much like the butt rubbing and poop eating, it’s not one of their more likeable traits.
Source:
Youtube
44. Fast tail
Your dog could be feeling anxious if their tail is moving fast with a short range of motion. If you do believe they are nervous, try to figure out a good way to make them feel more relaxed.
Source:
Youtube
45. Wide range of motion
This fast and wide motion can mean that your dog has a lot of energy. Take them for a walk or throw a toy around with them and see if that changes anything! They can be hyper.
Source:
Shareably
46. Taking over your bed
Ever try to lay comfortably in your bed but then your dog sprawls out all over you? Yeah, that’s because of your part of their pack now, and they want to be as close to you as possible. Good luck getting out of that one!
Source:
Animal Channel
47. Digging
We’ve all seen a dog dig before! Despite what you might think, it’s actually because they are bored. If you want to avoid a bunch of holes in your yard, take them for a walk!
Source:
Animal Channel
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