Dogs obviously can’t talk, so they often have to find other ways to communicate what it is that they want or need. Some of their actions can seem a bit strange (like following you into the bathroom) but there is a chance that there is actually a good reason for that. If you’re curious about some of your dog’s strange behaviors, keep reading!
1. Straight pointed tail, forward ears
If your dog is standing in this position, it could mean that they are feeling curious about something in their environment. He is basically playing detective. It could mean that he smells or hears something interesting, with those super strong senses!
2. Low growl
If your dog has a low growl, sort of under their breath, this means that they were feeling threatened. It could also mean that they are about to pounce or make an attack, so be wary and think twice before approaching them.
3. Awaiting your approval
Most dogs are pretty obedient. They understand that you are in charge and they don’t ever want to upset you. So next time you catch your dog looking at you before they are about to do something, that means they are seeking your approval.
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4. Howling
If a dog is howling, it is usually when something really annoying is happening (like a loud siren or another high-pitched sound). It is unclear whether they are howling because they are annoyed or because it is hurting their ears. Either way though, it’s a whole lot of annoying!
5. Superman
If your dog is sleeping on their stomach with their legs out, also known as superman position, this most likely means that you are dealing with a super energetic pup who has finally crashed. A lot of puppies do this. It makes it so that they are able to spring up and play when they are ready again!
6. Puppy dog eyes
We can all agree that when a dog gives you puppy eyes, it is the cutest thing ever. Many people reward this action with a treat when really, it is just your pup telling you that they love and trust you. Sure, it’s an added bonus that they get a treat out of it, but they are really just being genuinely loving toward you.
7. Passed out
If your pup is completely passed out on their back, with their limbs hanging all over the place, this could mean that they are overheating. Their two front paws could also be draped over their chest — if they are, that means that they are really passed out and do not want to be disturbed.
8. Open mouth, relaxed tail, high ears
This could seem like a bit of a mixed signal, with both the relaxed tail and high ears. It really just means that your dog feels relaxed and secure, though. They are neutral. If you are ever unsure when a good time to approach a dog is, now is a good time.
9. Crazy legs/dead bug
If it’s nap time for your pup and they are sleeping with their legs wide open (like a dead bug) this means they are very comfortable and vulnerable. It means that they feel safe and not threatened. If you find your dog sleeping like this, it means they feel safe in your home or wherever you are!
10. Rising bark
Good news for you! If your dog has a bark that starts low and then gets higher at the end, that means that they are trying to play. This is their way of getting excited and trying to engage you. Time for a game!
11. Side sleeper
This is a pretty common sleeping position for dogs, although they don’t typically stay in it for long. If your dog is sleeping on their side, it probably means that they are feeling happy. It also usually means that they have tight bonds in their “pack.”
12. Squinting
Squinting, or the blinking of the eyes, is a common dog behavior. It pretty much means that your dog wants attention from you and wants to spend some quality time together. If you haven’t already, make some room to spend some time with them each day — it is so important.
13. Belly curl
If your dog is sleeping on their back with their paws underneath them or out to their sides, this could mean that your dog is not getting good quality sleep. This position makes it hard for their muscles to relax, which makes it hard for them to reach REM. Dogs that are gentle and shy also tend to sleep like this.
14. The “Fox”
If your dog’s tail is wrapped in front of their face and their paws are underneath them, this could mean that they are cold. This position allows them to keep in a lot of heat (you can find wolves sleeping like this as well). If your dog is not cold, it can mean that they are actually feeling nervous or apprehensive.
15. Back to back
Have you ever seen two pups sleeping back to back? If so, then you already know it is the cutest thing ever. The best part is that they don’t only do this with dogs, but their owners as well. It’s a sign that they trust you and look at you as part of the pack.
16. Loose floppy tongue
If the tongue is hanging out their mouth and it’s all loose and floppy, you can panic and start to think that something is wrong. But rest assured, this is perfectly normal! It simply means that you’re dog is feeling very chilled out and relaxed.
17. Wave your paws in the air…
…Like you just don’t care. No but seriously, if you see your dog either sitting or standing, with their paws up in the air, that means that they really care. It means that they are trying to concentrate on something.
18. Bare teeth, ears back and snarling
This is a very threatening pose. Be weary when approaching, because it can mean that your dog is about to bite. It may seem pretty obvious, but it can’t hurt to remember exactly what an aggressive dog looks like. Even if they are mad at something else, not you, they still might take it out on you, so be careful.
19. Gift giver
If your dog is bringing you gifts, it means they are trying to show you that they care about you. Sure, maybe the gift is a dead animal or your own shoe, but they don’t know any better. They are trying to make you feel happy and maybe cheer you up, so say thanks even if you’re grossed out!
20. Getting excited when you’re home
Dogs can sometimes have the tendency to go crazy when their owners get home. This is because, well, they missed you and are obviously excited. The wilder they are, the more excited. If they could talk, they would basically be screaming, “I’m so excited to see you!”
21. Post dinner cuddles
If your pup is trying to snuggle up with you after a meal, it most likely means that they love you and are, well, trying to cuddle. It can also mean that they are content and satisfied.
22. Sleeping in your bed
They sleep in your bed because, yes, it is comfortable. However, they also do it because they want to feel as close to you as possible. Your scent is all over the bed and they can sense it. That is also why you will sometimes find them in your bed when you come home after being gone for a while.
23. Licking
If your dog keeps trying to lick your face, that means they are submissive. At the same time it can also mean that licking your face is helping them relieve some stress. Some people are super grossed out by this, but it makes your dog happy! Plus, what’s wrong with a little affection?
24. Staring
If you sometimes catch your dog staring at you, that is very common. It simply means that they want your love and affection, so go on and give them some attention! Even low maintenance dogs need a little bit of loving. This is their way of telling you that.
25. Chasing their tail
We’ve definitely all seen a dog chase its tail before, assuming its tail is long enough, of course. They always try to chase it, but they never actually catch it (probably for the best). Younger pups do this because they don’t realize the tail is already theirs. Older dogs do this when they are feeling rest, bored, or stuck in a small space.
26. Post bath feelings
Dogs tend to have a certain “energy” after they take a bath, and that is completely normal. If your dog tends to run around and get wild after a bath, it probably means that they are relieved it is over. It also means that they are trying to dry off and hates being wet.
27. Tongue out
Is your dog staring at you with their tongue out of their mouth? Yeah, totally normal. This typically means they are feeling happy, relaxed, and mellow!
28. Leaning
If your dog is leaning on you, this could mean that they need some attention. They probably feel neglected and are in need of some love. Give that dog love ASAP!
29. Butt sniffing
We have all seen a dog sniff another dog’s butt before and that is because it is extremely common. This is the equivalent of a human handshake. Essentially, they are saying, “Hey, what’s up, how are you?” to the other pup. They also use this as a way to get to know the other dog better.
30. Head tilt
We have all seen a dog tilt their head before. To us, it’s just the cutest thing ever, but there is actually a purpose for it. When they do this, they are adjusting their outer ear so that they can hear something — you or a noise — better. They are trying their best to be attentive!
31. Staying by your side
You know… Even when you are on the toilet, sometimes they still follow you around everywhere. If they are staying close and coming off as needy, it simply means they see you as part of their “pack.” They are attached to you!
32. Trashing the couch
If you come home to find the couch completely trashed, it is very frustrating. That is understandable. What it means though, is that your dog had separation anxiety while you were gone. To lessen the blow, take your dog for a walk before you leave to help them get their energy out. They should eventually grow out of it.
33. Intense eye contact
If your dog has eyes for you and only you, it could mean that you are the only thing on their mind at that moment. You are the center of attention in their mind. They are paying special attention to your expressions and what you could possibly want from them.
34. Low front, mouth open and wagging tail
This specific stance typically means that your dog is having a lot of fun. They will usually do this when they are playing, so you can tell that they are enjoying themselves. It’s almost as if they are bowing to say thank you.
35. Rocking horse
By rocking horse, we mean that your dog literally looks like a rocking horse. They are swaying back and forth from front to back. This motion usually means that they are having a lot of fun and they are enjoying themselves!
36. Showing empathy
Believe it or not, dogs can absolutely show empathy. Dogs can read our body language so they can tell when we are upset and want to do whatever they can to comfort us. That’s why when we’re sad they might lick us or try to cuddle with us. They want to be there for you.
37. Eating grass
This isn’t just a thing that cows or rabbits do! If you catch your dog doing this, know that it is normal. However, it means that they probably have a nutrient deficiency or they are trying to improve their digestion. Worst case scenario, they are trying to treat intestinal worms. It could also just mean that they are dehydrated, especially if it is hot.
38. Eating poop
It’s not a pleasant thing to witness, but it happens and it is perfectly normal, especially when your dog is young. This is their way of trying to keep their territory clean. They also might eat other dogs’ poop because they don’t want to poop where they eat. Mother dogs also eat their babies’ poop to keep them “clean.”
39. Butt scoot
This is a funny thing to witness… Until they do it on your carpet. Ha! It could simply mean that their butt is dirty and they are trying to clean it. It can also mean that they have an anal gland problem or worms, so definitely keep an eye on it if they are doing it frequently.
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40. Hanging out a car window
This is something we see in movies or photos. It looks so fun and lovable, we even try to do it ourselves sometimes! When dogs do it, it means they are enjoying themselves and taking in all of the scents. So many delicious scents!
41. Humping
Unfortunately, this is another very common thing! Kind of like eating their own poop and rubbing their butts on the carpet, it’s not one of the more likable dog traits. There’s actually nothing sexual about it though, they are just trying to assert their dominance.
42. Taking over your bed
If you are in bed with your significant other, this might make your dog feel more like you are all one “pack,” and they will want to join. They want to feel close to you. It might be annoying but they really just want to be surrounded!
43. Sitting on your feet
If your dog sits on your feet, this might mean that they are feeling insecure. This is their way of trying to reinforce the idea that you love them. Basically, they are marking their territory!
44. Hunched over
This is usually the behavior of a dog who has been abused or neglected. By hunching over, they are trying to make themselves smaller and less noticeable. If you see a dog acting like this, you want to make sure that you are extra kind and gentle with them.
45. Fast tail
Sometimes dogs’ tails wag very fast, with a short range of motion. If this is the case, it could mean that your dog is feeling anxious and nervous. Try to comfort them in any way that you can.
46. Wide range of motion
There’s that, and then sometimes they wag their tail quickly but with a wide range of motion. This means they probably have a lot of energy to burn. Take them out for some exercise or maybe toss a toy around with them!
47. Digging
Another very common dog behavior! It’s actually a sign of boredom. So if you don’t want random holes all over your backyard, try taking your dog out for a walk or a run — any kind of exercise that will help them get that “bored energy” out of their system.
48. Forward ears
If a dog’s ears are pointing straight and forward, that means that they are focused on something directly in front of them. They can be feeling a range of emotions: curiosity, fear, excitement, etc. Whatever it is, they are definitely paying attention.
49. Raising one paw
Sometimes dogs just want to raise a single paw, and this is because something is peeking their interest. They are feeling curious. This could also mean that they are in a playful mood and want to do something. It can also mean that they are hungry.
50. Yawning
Dogs actually yawn for the same reason that we do. It means that they are tired or bored. They can even “catch” a yawn from us, the same way that we “catch” yawns from other people!
Do you have a better understanding of your dog now? We sure do!
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