Is Your Dog Trying to Tell You Something? 7 Hidden Messages in Their Behaviour

Dogs are incredibly expressive animals. While they may not speak our language, they have a rich and complex way of communicating with us through their behaviours. Understanding these signals can help you build a stronger bond with your canine companion and address their needs more effectively. In this blog, we'll explore seven hidden messages your dog might be trying to convey through their behaviour. By decoding these signals, you'll gain insight into your dog's emotions and desires, enhancing your relationship and ensuring their well-being.

1. Tail Wagging: Not Always a Sign of Happiness

Understanding Tail Language

Tail wagging is often associated with a happy dog, but it can convey a range of emotions depending on the context and how the tail is wagged.

Different Types of Tail Wagging

• High and Fast Wagging: This usually indicates excitement or eagerness.
• Low and Slow Wagging: Often a sign of caution or insecurity.
• Stiff Wagging: Can indicate aggression or a threat response.
• Circular Wagging: Usually a sign of happiness and contentment.

How to Respond

Pay attention to the context and accompanying body language. If the wagging seems unsure or accompanied by other signs of stress, approach gently and calmly to reassure your dog.

2. Barking: Decoding the Message

Types of Barking

Barking is a primary mode of communication for dogs, and understanding the different types can help you interpret what they're trying to say.

What Different Barks Mean

• Rapid, Continuous Barking: Indicates an alert or warning, such as the presence of a stranger.
• Short, Sharp Barks: Often used to grab your attention or express excitement.
• Low Growls and Barks: Typically a sign of fear or aggression.
• Whining and Whimpering: Can indicate discomfort, anxiety, or a desire for attention.

How to Respond

Identify the cause of the barking and address it appropriately. If your dog is barking out of fear or anxiety, provide comfort and remove any stressors. For attention-seeking barks, ensure their needs are met and consider training for more appropriate ways to communicate. Read our full blog on why dogs bark > 

3. Body Posture: Reading the Signs

Key Postures to Observe

A dog's body posture can reveal a lot about their emotional state and intentions.

Common Postures and Their Meanings

• Relaxed Stance: Indicates a calm and content dog.
• Cowering or Hunched Posture: Sign of fear, anxiety, or submission.
• Rigid and Stiff Posture: Can signal aggression or alertness.
• Play Bow (front legs down, rear up): Invitation to play and general friendliness.

How to Respond

Match your response to the posture. For example, if your dog is exhibiting a play bow, engage in play. If they are showing signs of fear or anxiety, create a safe and comforting environment.

4. Eye Contact: Windows to the Soul

The Role of Eye Contact

Dogs use eye contact to communicate a variety of messages, from affection to aggression.

What Different Eye Behaviours Mean

• Direct, Soft Eye Contact: Indicates trust and affection.
• Averted Gaze: Can be a sign of submission or discomfort.
• Hard Stare: Often a precursor to aggression or a challenge.
• Blinking and Squinting: Shows relaxation and a non-threatening demeanour.

How to Respond

Maintain gentle, relaxed eye contact to build trust. Avoid staring down your dog as it can be perceived as a threat. Respect their space if they avert their gaze.

5. Licking: More Than Just Affection

Understanding Licking Behaviour

While licking is often seen as a sign of affection, it can also convey other messages.

Why Dogs Lick

• Affection and Bonding: Licking releases endorphins that make dogs feel good.
• Grooming: Dogs lick themselves and others to keep clean.
• Communication: Puppies lick their mothers to stimulate feeding, and adult dogs may lick to show submission.
• Exploration: Dogs use their mouths to explore the world, and licking can be a way to learn about their environment.

How to Respond

Appreciate licking as a sign of affection, but set boundaries if it becomes excessive. Redirect their attention with toys or activities if needed. Read our full blog on why dogs lick > 

6. Yawning: Not Just Tiredness

Decoding Yawns

Yawning in dogs can be a sign of various emotions, not just tiredness.

What Yawning Means

• Stress Relief: Dogs yawn to calm themselves in stressful situations.
• Empathy: Yawning can be contagious, and dogs may yawn in response to seeing humans or other dogs yawn.
• Boredom: Similar to humans, dogs may yawn when they are bored and looking for stimulation.

How to Respond

If your dog is yawning frequently, assess the situation for stressors. Provide comfort or engage them in a fun activity to alleviate boredom.

7. Pawing: A Request for Attention

The Meaning Behind Pawing

When a dog paws at you, it's usually a request for attention or a signal for something they need. 

Common Reasons for Pawing

• Attention: Dogs paw to get your focus, whether for petting, play, or another form of interaction.
• Hunger or Thirst: Your dog may paw at you when they need food or water.
• Comfort: Pawing can be a sign that your dog is seeking comfort or reassurance.
• Training Signal: Dogs trained to use their paws for certain commands may do so to communicate specific needs.

How to Respond

Acknowledge your dog's pawing and determine the reason behind it. Ensure their basic needs are met and provide affection or playtime if they're seeking attention.

Conclusion

Dogs have a sophisticated and nuanced way of communicating with us. By paying attention to their behaviours, we can better understand their needs and emotions. These seven hidden messages in your dog's behaviour are just the beginning of the intricate language they use to connect with us. By learning to decode these signals, you'll enhance your bond with your dog and ensure they feel understood and cared for.

For more insights into dog behaviour and to discover a wide range of high-quality pet products, visit The Pets Larder. Understanding your dog's behaviour is the key to a happy and healthy relationship with your furry friend. 

Additional Resources

To further understand your dog's behaviour and improve your communication, consider these resources:

• "The Other End of the Leash" by Patricia McConnell
• "How to Speak Dog: Mastering the Art of Dog-Human Communication" by Stanley Coren
• Online training courses and workshops offered by professional dog trainers.

By investing time in learning about your dog's behaviour, you'll create a more harmonious and fulfilling relationship, ensuring your dog feels loved and understood.

FAQs

1. Why does my dog follow me everywhere?

Your dog likely follows you because they see you as a source of safety, companionship, and resources (like food and affection). It can also be a sign of their strong bond and attachment to you.

2. What does it mean when my dog tilts their head?

Head tilting often indicates that your dog is trying to better understand what you are saying or focusing on. It can also mean they are curious or attentive.

3. Why does my dog bring me toys?

When your dog brings you toys, they are usually seeking playtime or trying to engage you in an activity they enjoy. It can also be a way to show affection and share their prized possessions with you.

4. Is my dog trying to tell me something by barking at nothing?

Dogs have acute senses and may bark at things you cannot see or hear, such as distant sounds or subtle movements. It could also be a sign of boredom or a need for mental stimulation.

5. Why does my dog lean on me?

Leaning is often a sign of affection and trust. Your dog is seeking physical closeness and comfort from you, indicating they feel safe and secure in your presence.