Our canine companions communicate in a way vastly different from us. Sometimes, their actions leave us scratching our heads, wondering what they’re trying to tell us. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Although animal behaviorists have yet to crack the code entirely, years of research have shed light on many typical dog behaviors. Let’s explore some frequently misunderstood dog actions decoded by experts, helping you understand your furry friend better:

Tail Wagging

We all know a wagging tail means a happy pup, right? Not entirely! The speed, position, and overall body language paint a more complete picture. A slow wag, especially with a tense body and flattened ears, can indicate anxiety. A high, stiff wag with hackles raised might signal excitement that could border on aggression.

Licking

While licking can be a sign of affection, especially when coupled with happy tail wags and whole-body wiggles, excessive licking can stem from several reasons. It could be a calming mechanism to deal with stress or anxiety, a sign of allergies causing skin irritation, or even nausea. Observe the context and consult a vet if your dog seems to be licking themselves excessively.

Yawning

A tired dog might yawn, but yawning can also be a calming signal used to de-escalate a tense situation. Think of it as a canine white flag. Watch for other stress cues like lip licking or whale eye (showing the whites of the eyes) to differentiate between tiredness and attempts to appease.

Scooting

This embarrassing act doesn’t necessarily mean worms, although it’s always best to get a checkup to rule them out. Scooting can indicate rectal gland issues, irritated skin from allergies or environmental factors, or even impacted stools. Consult a vet to identify and address the underlying medical reason.

Sniffing

This might seem crude to us, but for dogs, sniffing another dog’s rear end is a way to gather a wealth of information. It’s like reading a social media profile! They can learn about age, sex, health status, and even diet through these olfactory greetings.

Eating Poop (Coprophagy)

Gross, yes, but coprophagy can have several explanations. Nutritional deficiencies, boredom leading to seeking stimulation through inappropriate means, or even a desire to clean up after their puppies (a leftover instinct from their wild ancestors) are all possibilities. It is crucial to address the root cause, whether providing a balanced diet, offering more enrichment activities, or consulting a vet about potential health issues.

Bringing You “Gifts”

That dead mouse or stolen sock? It’s not a prank, believe it or not! Your dog might be trying to appease you by offering something they consider valuable, showing off their “hunting” skills by presenting their “prey,” or simply sharing something they find interesting. While the “gift” itself might not be ideal, it’s a sign of affection and loyalty.

Staring

Don’t take a stare personally! Sometimes, dogs stare because they’re trying to understand what you’re doing, waiting for a cue (especially if you’ve trained them using hand signals or eye contact), or simply trying to get your attention. However, prolonged staring can signify dominance in some cases, especially with unfamiliar dogs. If you notice this behavior, avoid direct eye contact and let the other dog initiate interaction.

Hiding

A dog hiding under the bed after a loud noise or during a thunderstorm doesn’t always mean they’re naughty. They might be scared of something, feeling unwell, or simply seeking some quiet time. Provide a safe space for them to retreat when needed, like a cozy crate or a designated quiet area, and avoid forcing them out if they seem stressed.

Sudden Zooms

The infamous “zoomies” are a burst of energy release, common in young dogs but also seen in older pups who get the chance to run free. It’s a way to burn off steam, express pure joy, and release pent-up energy. Engage in playtime after these bursts to help positively channel their energy.

Digging

Destructive digging in your flowerbeds can be frustrating but often stems from natural instincts. Dogs dig to hunt for rodents, create a cool den to escape the heat, or simply because they find the act enjoyable. Please provide them with digging-approved areas like a sandpit filled with hidden treats to redirect this behavior.

Counter Surfing

This sneaky act of balancing on their hind legs to investigate the countertop sometimes means they’re hungry. It could result from boredom seeking stimulation, seeking attention (because, sometimes, humans react when they catch their dog on the counter!), or simply curiosity about what might be up there. Keep counters clear of temptations like food scraps or dirty dishes, and provide alternative activities like puzzle feeders or frozen Kong toys to keep them occupied.

Barking

Barking is a dog’s way of communicating, a built-in vocal language. It can express excitement when you come home, fear during a loud storm, or territoriality when someone approaches the door. The key is identifying the trigger and addressing the underlying reason rather than simply punishing the bark. For example, if your dog barks at strangers, consider desensitization training to help them feel comfortable around new people.

Chewing

Like digging, chewing is a natural behavior, especially for teething puppies. It helps relieve discomfort and explore their surroundings. Offer them appropriate chew toys made from durable materials to discourage them from gnawing on your furniture. Rotate the toys regularly to keep things interesting, and supervise them during chewing sessions to ensure they’re not ingesting any small pieces.