Why does my dog...? Interpret habitual behaviors in dogs
Your dog's actions say a lot by themselves and, even if you don't master the canine language, you need to learn to interpret your dog's behavior. Some behaviors are normal (although they seem strange or unpleasant to us), while others are a sign that your dog is not well physically or mentally. Sudden changes in behavior are often an indication that something is wrong. Consult your veterinarian if you are concerned about anything your dog is doing, so they can recommend a qualified behavior study expert or trainer ifnecessary.
1. Nibble or bite
Puppies explore the world using their mouths (just like babies, who can't resist putting anything new they see into their mouths) and this exploration includes the hands of the people they live with. Before separating from their littermates, puppies and kittens nip at each other while playing, which is essential for them to learn so-called "bite inhibition" behavior, in which they learn to regulate the intensity with which they bite. they bite However, this same behavior also reinforces in them that biting is an appropriate way to communicate.
Because their little teeth are like needles, we often react immediately to them, and puppies take this as a game! In addition, they realize that it is a very effective way to get your attention.
Puppies also chew on things when they are teething as it soothes their sore and swollen gums.
If your little one chews continuously, it's important to treat it before it becomes a more serious behavior problem in the future.
2. Spin or chase its tail
When the puppies are in the growth phase, it is when they discover their tail and they can start chasing it or biting it. Because we may find this funny, we tend to laugh, which inadvertently reinforces his behavior, and he may continue to do so on a regular basis, especially if he wants to get your attention.
However, some dogs may compulsively turn or chase their tails, especially in situations where they feel anxious or frustrated. This is a serious behavioral problem that requires veterinary attention, and unfortunately, it is much more common in some dog breeds, such as bull terriers.
3. Dig
Dogs dig for a variety of reasons: to find underground creatures (such as moles and insects), to create a cool place to lie down, to hide something important to them, or to escape an enclosure (because they are looking for fun or are restless). However, some dogs dig indoors as well. Have you ever seen your dog scratch the blankets or the sofa to find the perfect place to lie down? This behavior occurs especially at night or at nap time, and it is completely normal, it is the equivalent of when you fluff up the pillow or shake the duvet before getting into bed.
4. Eat feces
Dogs eat feces for various reasons:
- Curiosity: investigate unknown things.
- Explore the environment: remember that dogs explore the world through their mouths.
- Boredom: Young puppies are especially motivated to learn about the world around them and if they are in an environment without much stimulation, feces may become the only thing they interact with.
- Hunger: dogs are scavengers by nature and although bird or cat feces are extremely unpleasant for us, for dogs they may contain some nutrients.
- Anxiety: when they associate the presence of feces with punishment and try to «hide the evidence».
Eating feces can also be due to a nutritional deficiency. Be sure to give your dog a balanced diet, and contact your vet, especially if your dog is losing weight in addition to eating feces.
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5. Panting
Dogs have very few sweat glands (mostly on their paws), so they cool off primarily through panting. When panting, they expel body heat through the mouth by means of evaporative cooling.
However, it is important to pay attention to panting, as it can also be a sign of pain, stress, anxiety or other health problems. If you notice your dog panting when it's not too hot, examine what else might be in the environment that might be affecting it and seek veterinary help if necessary.
6. Sit on your feet or between your legs
This is often mistaken for possessive behavior, but is more of a sign of anxiety or stress. Your dog is trying to feel more secure by staying close to you. Some trainers encourage owners to teach them the "middle" command, where your dog will sit or lie between your legs.
7. Drag butt on the ground
This behavior, while it may seem funny (or somewhatoff-putting), is always a sign that something is irritating your dog's anus. Your pup's anal sacs may be full and need to be emptied, or the skin around the anus may be irritated. If your dog's anal sacs are filling up too quickly and aren't emptying normally when he poops, talk to your vet about possible changes to his diet. You may need more fiber or a special diet to reduce allergies.
Other things that can irritate the area and cause it to crawl are substances, such as grass or hair, that can get caught in your anus.
8. Pee inside the house
If your dog has undergone proper training, it can be quite a surprise to see him urinate inside the house or to find the evidence later. Changes in the behavior of dogs always hide a reason, even if it is not obvious to us. Well-trained dogs that suddenly start urinating indoors need to see a vet, as their behavior may be due to a health issue, such as a urinary tract infection or endocrine disorder. Anxiety or cognitive dysfunction can also be reasons for properly trained dogs to urinate indoors.
Certainly, if your dog has never been properly housetrained, this is a problem that should be handled by a qualified behaviorist.
9. Yawn
Even if you think that what you need is sleep, yawning in a dog is not always a sign of tiredness. Yawning can be a symptom of anxiety, fear, or stress. If your dog seems to yawn more when there is a person he doesn't know or when he experiences a new situation, he considers ways to make him feel more relaxed, such as treats, toys, or safe spaces, for example, a carrier.
Recognizing and correctly interpreting the myriad of behaviors that dogs display can help us understand our canine companions much better, which not only enhances the bond we share, but also means we can identify times when they're not feeling well , whether physically, mentally or emotionally, and provide them with the help they need.
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