Dog body language involves a series of unique methods for communicating emotions and intentions. It can be quite different from how humans communicate. These behaviors consists of barks, whines, and growls, so it’s important to know what dog sounds mean. Dogs rely on nonverbal body language. That can lead to plenty of human-dog misunderstandings. The below post is to help in Interpreting Your Dog’s Behavior.
Tail Wagging
There are distinct types of tail wags. Each says something particular about a dog’s mood. A tail that is held high and moving fast and wide shows the dog is happy and excited. A slow wag means the dog is less enthusiastic and may be wary. Short, narrow strokes mean the dog is anxious or uptight. A tail wagging to the left shows concern, while the right indicates pleasant feelings.
Barking
Barking is an important method of canine communication. It can show alarm, protectiveness, boredom, or a greeting. It can also be due to separation anxiety or illness. Observing when a dog barks can help decipher why they are barking. Barking when a stranger approaches is likely due to protectiveness, but barking while an owner is out may indicate boredom. If a dog’s barking has become a problem, look at quiet training, or seek help from a professional trainer.
Digging
All dogs dig on occasion, some breeds are more prone to it. Terriers in particular have an instinctive need to dig. Dogs may dig themselves a cool spot to lie in, or a hole to hide food or escape a yard. Excessive digging can also show boredom or excess energy. Make sure a digging dog gets plenty of exercise and try training them to dig in a certain spot, away from prized plants.
Chewing
Chewing is comforting and helps relieve boredom, stress, and fear. Anything with an appealing texture may end up between a dog’s teeth, though their owner’s possessions are especially tempting because they smell and taste familiar. Using something that smells and tastes like food is usually the easiest solution. People with puppies may find a puppy teething ring helps relieve the pain of teething and diverts the puppy away from chewing shoes or other personal items.
Eating Grass
It is commonly believed that dogs eat grass to soothe an upset stomach, but vets say this is rarely the case. Most think dogs like the taste of grass, while others think eating plants is instinctive. Either way, the grass does not harm dogs and is unlikely to indicate a problem. Owners should only be concerned if a dog is eating grass and shows other signs of illness, such as lethargy or vomiting. In these cases, it is best to contact a vet.
Jumping
Dog behaviorists generally believe that jumping up is a form of greeting. Dogs greet each other nose-to-nose and jump in an attempt to greet humans the same way. It can also be a way to seek attention, especially in dogs left alone for much of the day. Jumping up can be dangerous, especially when greeting small children or the elderly. It is best to train dogs to sit when greeting people to keep owners and guests safe
If you are unsure if you and Interpreting Your Dog’s Behavior correctly make sure to contact a professional trainer for advice.
