10 DOG BEHAVIOURS EXPLAINED FOR OWNERS

Dogs are more than just pets; they are family members.

Understanding your dog's behaviour can strengthen your bond and improve your relationship with your dog.

In this post, we will explore the top 10 dog behaviours, explaining what they mean and how you can respond to them.

By the end of this article, you will hopefully have a better understanding of your furry friend and how to meet their needs.

1. Tail Wagging

Tail wagging is one of the most recognisable dog behaviours.

But did you know that not all tail wags mean the same thing?

• Happy Wagging: A wagging tail held high usually indicates happiness.

  Your dog is excited to see you or is enjoying playtime.

  
  

• Nervous Wagging: If the tail is low and wagging slowly, your dog may be feeling anxious or unsure.

  
  

• Aggressive Wagging: A stiff, high tail that wags quickly can signal aggression.

  In this case, it is best to give your dog some space.

  
  

  Recognising these signals can help you respond effectively to your dog's emotions.

2. Barking

A natural form of communication for dogs is to bark.

However, the reason behind the barking can vary greatly.

• Alert Barking: If a dog hears something, it will often bark to alert their owner.

  It could be a noise outside or a stranger at the door.

  
  

• Playful Barking: If your dog is barking while playing, it usually means they are having fun.

  
  

• Boredom Barking: Dogs may bark out of boredom or frustration.

  If your dog is left alone for long periods, they might bark to express their feelings.

  
  

Identifying the type of barking can help you address your dog's needs more effectively.

3. Chewing

Chewing is a common behaviour in dogs, especially puppies.

However, it can also be a sign of stress or boredom in adult dogs.

• Puppy Chewing: Puppies chew to relieve teething pain.

  Providing them with appropriate chew toys can help.

  
  

• Destructive Chewing: If your adult dog is chewing on furniture or shoes, it may be a sign that they are bored or anxious.

  
  

• Stress Relief: Some dogs chew to cope with stress.

  If you notice this behaviour, consider providing more exercise or mental stimulation.

  
  

Understanding why your dog chews can help you redirect their behaviour positively.

4. Digging

Digging is another behaviour that can have various meanings.

• Instinctual Digging: Certain dog breeds, such as Terriers, naturally want to dig in the ground

  This digging behaviour is often related to their history as hunters.

  
  

• Boredom Digging: Dogs may dig when they are bored or have excess energy.

  
  

• Comfort Digging: Some dogs dig to create a comfortable spot to lie down.

  
  

If your dog is digging excessively, consider providing more exercise or a designated digging area.

5. Jumping

Jumping is a common behaviour, especially in excited dogs.

• Greeting Jumping: Dogs often jump to greet their owners or other people.

  They are expressing excitement and affection.

  
  

• Attention-Seeking Jumping: If your dog jumps to get your attention, it may be a sign that they want to play or interact.

  
  

To stop your dog from jumping, first teach them to sit.

Once sitting, you can help your dog find better ways to show their excitement.

6. Licking

Licking is a behaviour that can mean different things.

• Affectionate Licking: Dogs often lick their owners as a sign of affection.

  
  

• Grooming: Dogs lick themselves to groom and keep clean.

  
  

• Stress Licking: Some dogs lick excessively when they are anxious or stressed.

  
  

If you see your dog licking more than normal, it might be a good idea to find out why.

7. Sniffing

Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, and sniffing is a natural behaviour for them.

• Exploration: Dogs use their nose to smell and learn what is around them..

• Sniffing is how they learn about the environment..

  
  

• Social Sniffing: Dogs often sniff each other as a way to gather information about other dogs.

  
  

Encouraging your dog to sniff during walks can provide mental stimulation and satisfy their curiosity.

8. Sleeping

Dogs sleep a lot, and this behaviour is essential for their health.

• Restorative Sleep: Dogs need sleep to recharge.

  Puppies and older dogs may sleep more than younger adults.

  
  

• Dreaming: If you notice your dog twitching or making noises while sleeping, it may be a sign that they are dreaming.

  
  

Providing a comfortable sleeping area can help your dog get the rest they need.

9. Following You Around

If your dog follows you everywhere, it can be a sign of affection and a reflection of its loyalty.

• Attachment: Dogs are pack animals and often feel more secure when they are close to their owners.

  
  

• Curiosity: Your dog may also be curious about what you are doing.

  
  

While it is sweet to have a dog that follows you, ensure they have their own space and activities to keep them engaged.

10. Body Language

Understanding how your dog expresses emotions through its body language is crucial for effective communication.

• Relaxed Body: A calm dog will have a loose body posture and a wagging tail.

  
  

• Stiff Body: A stiff body can indicate fear or aggression.

  
  

• Play Bow: When a dog lowers their front legs while keeping their back end up, it is a sign they want to play.

  
  

Understanding your dog's body language can help you know how they feel and what they need.

A happy dog expressing excitement with a wagging tail

As dog owners, it's essential to know what these actions mean so we can make our pets happy and healthy.

Understanding what your dog is trying to tell you can help you respond effectively and strengthen your relationship with them.

Every dog is unique, and its behaviour can vary based on its breed, age, and personality.

Take the time to observe your dog and learn what makes it tick.

In the end, a well-understood dog is a happy dog.

By paying attention to your dog's behaviours, you can ensure they feel loved, secure, and understood.