Is your dog speaking to you? 10+ behaviour clues that reveal what they're really feeling

As dog owners, we like to believe our dogs are the world's best readers of us — sensing our moods, emotions, and needs with amazing accuracy. If we're crying, enthusiastic, or simply need a hug, it's as if they can tell. But do we do the same for them? Do we know them that well in return? Have you ever found yourself stumped by your dog's idiosyncrasies? We're about to take the lid off what goes on inside the dog brain. Buckle up for a laugh and learning experience as we take a gander at some typical dog behaviour and what it means.




Behavioural signs every dog owner should recognise






Why do dogs stare at you in the eyes

When your dog gazes into your eyes, it is not a sweet stare. It is piercing eye contact, usually reserved for the closest of relationships. When your dog gazes at you with love, it's how they express that they trust you with their entire body. They know you as their sanctuary, and eye contact is their language of love. It's a display of pure, unadulterated love!

But check this out: when dogs are looking directly at your eyes, both you and your dog are releasing oxytocin, or the "love hormone." That's the same hormone that's released when mothers bond with children. So the stare isn't cute only -- it's also bonding you to your dog!





Why do dogs growl

A low growl is not always a sign that the dog is aggressive — far from it, most of the time it's a sign of fear or apprehension. Dogs, like people, get nervous, and growling is the way they show their nervousness. The trick in such cases is to move towards them slowly and provide them with enough space so that they can possibly calm down safely. Remember that sudden movement scares them, and a growl is them warning you that they're getting angry. Stay calm, and your dog will settle down.

But not all growls are bad! Some dogs growl when they're feeling playful. When they're wagging their tail or maintaining a loose body position, it's usually a playful growl. It's a friendly way of saying, "Let's play some games!"!!!!




Do dogs like being held

Some dogs enjoy being picked up off the floor into your arms and squeezed, while others will find it a little too intimate. The secret is being aware of your dog's body language. When your dog paws at you or jumps onto you so that you can cradle them, they're clams happy! But when they squirm, struggle, or even roll their eyes at you, then best leave them alone, perhaps. It's a matter of being respectful of their own comfort zone!

Some dogs, such as Chihuahuas or little lap dogs, will adore being cuddled up close, whereas bigger dogs such as Retrievers or Bulldogs might feel a bit cramped in your arms. You'll be able to tell what your dog prefers after you begin noticing their cues — each dog is different when it comes to feeling at ease being held.




Why do dogs follow you to the bathroom

Ever had your dog accompany you into the bathroom, even though it's the most intimate of places? It's not love; it's their pack animal nature. Dogs feel more secure when they're with their human "pack members" — they're protecting you because they care. And if you have ever rewarded them for following you, you may have inadvertently conditioned the behavior. Your dog just wants to be by your side, no matter the location!

You must keep in mind that there are some dogs who do need to feel more secure, particularly if they've experienced being left behind for long stretches of time previously. For them, you're in every room maybe is how they cut back on anxiety. If your dog is too clingy and attaches itself to your side, you can try giving them a good place in another room so they'll feel safe when you're not around.




Why cannot dogs consume chocolate

Dogs and chocolate? A lethal combination! At fault is theobromine, an additive that cannot be digested by dogs. The result of one nibble might be some gastro upsets, but bigger pieces will kill. Dark chocolate especially — so if your dog's made off with a snack, don't tarry: race him straight off to the vet. Cute though those puppy dog eyes may be, chocolate remains off-limits!

Cool fact: theobromine injures dogs in a size-specific manner. A little dog can poison itself with life-threatening repercussions after nibbling just a microscopic morsel of chocolate, but a larger dog will be less likely to withstand it. But do remember: chocolate is always a risk – so best hide those treats from your small pal.




Are dalmatians born with spots

Most people think Dalmatians are born with those famous spots, but surprise: they're born entirely white! Those famous black spots start to emerge once they mature, usually the first several weeks of life. So, if you're considering bringing home a Dalmatian, strap yourself in for a bit of the unknown as the spots emerge! It's like watching a work of art unfold.

Fun fact: the spots vary on each Dalmatian, so two Dalmatians never have the same pattern. If you're taking one home, you're getting a walking masterpiece!




Why do dogs sit on top of your toes

You’ve probably experienced it: your dog plopping themselves right on your feet, refusing to budge. But here’s the reason: they’re not just seeking warmth (though that’s a perk); they’re expressing a deep sense of attachment. By staying close, they can sense your mood and stay connected with you. It’s their way of saying, “I’m right here, and I’ve got your back!”

That's how they "claim" you as "theirs," too. Dogs have scent glands in their paw pads, and when they curl up at the base of your feet, they're occupying quietly — which is both cute and kind of humorous when you realize that!




Do dogs understand us

Surprise: It turns out that dogs do know us a lot better than we give them credit for! Research indicates their IQ is the same as a 2-year-old human. Not only can they learn over 160 words, some dogs even have vocabularies of over 250 words! Sure, they won't debate philosophy, but they can most certainly count and recognize the tone and commands. Dogs are very intelligent communicators!

Even more astounding: dogs are capable of interpreting human emotions on our faces. They can differentiate between a smile and an anger face — and change their own behavior in response. That is why some dogs will try to console you if you're upset, or even step back if you're openly frustrated.




Do dogs have memories

Dogs do not brood like humans do over the past, but they do remember. They might not remember that you brought them to the park last summer, but the moment they are in the same park again, they'll remember playing. Something familiar sparks their memories, so don't worry if they act like they forgot — they're living in the moment. If they are dirty, chances are more than likely it is not revenge — they just need more stimulation.

But here's a sweet trick: dogs have an excellent episodic memory skill for everyday routines. That is, if your dog learns that certain activities correlate with reward (e.g., time to walk = treat), they can remember those instances and look forward to the next!




Why do dogs know a storm is coming

Did you ever catch your dog acting restless or nervous before a storm? While it may sound like a mystical sixth sense, there is a rational explanation for this. Dogs are highly attuned to changes in barometric pressure and with their very sensitive hearing, they can hear thunder far, far away before us. It's like your dog is the world's best weatherman!

But not all canines respond in the same manner. Some will become frightened or nervous, but others will just lie quietly with no knowledge of the weather. If your dog appears to be storm phobic, attempt to offer them a sanctuary in which they can feel safe. Sometimes soothing music or a diversion such as a chew toy will help them overcome fear.




Why do dogs sleep on their side

If your dog is sleeping on their side, it's an obvious indication that they're totally relaxed and at ease in their surroundings. Sleeping on their side means that they feel secure in their surroundings and trust them — it's the ultimate indicator of a happy and contented pup. A side-sleeping dog is living their best life!

You may also see some dogs sleeping on their backs with paws up in the air. That is another sign of a relaxed dog who feels completely comfortable. In fact, those dogs that sleep on their backs are normally very confident and carefree dogs.




Why do dogs bite

Biting doesn't always mean aggression. Dogs will bite out of fear, or defending themselves, or even as a natural play reaction. Sometimes even an obedience-trained dog will give a friendly nip while playing with you. However, watch for warning signs like growling or snapping before a bite takes place. When in doubt, look for the warning signs and give your dog some space.

Dogs bite to speak too, like when they are attempting to alert you. Nipping is part of puppyhood and usually will decrease as they mature and become educated on appropriate play.




Can dogs see at night

Dogs' night vision is much better than humans' because of a special eye coating called the tapetum lucidum. The reflective coating provides them with better night vision, and this is what enables them to see better at night. If your dog doesn't appear to mind darkness, it is not magic but biology! When the lights go out, your dog's eyes are working at full capacity.

But here it should be noted that although dogs have excellent night vision, they do not perceive the world in total color like human beings. They would perceive blues and yellows more clearly but are likely to shade reds and greens.




Why do dogs dig

Dogs dig for nearly all conceivable reasons. Some were hunting dogs and must dig to flush out game, and others dig as a comfort response and dig a cozy hole. Your dog might be digging to help their body temperature — it's a throwback to their wild ancestors who dug to cool off when it was warm and defrost in cold weather. It's not a bad habit; it's instinct getting the best of them!

And don't overlook dogs who dig because they are bored! If your dog is digging excessively, try ramping up exercise or mental stimulation to keep him busy.




Why do dogs tilt their heads

Have you ever caught your dog with their head tilted when you speak to them? This trick helps them focus their hearing to be able to interpret sounds better. With those incredible 16 muscles per ear, dogs can control the position and angle of their ears to pick up specific sounds. When your dog has their head tilted, they're listening intently, trying to decipher exactly what you're saying.

Others believe that dogs tilt their heads in order to better read people's emotions. A head tilt can also signify that your dog is extremely interested in you and trying to understand what you are telling them.




Why don't dogs hug

Just because dogs can't hug you like humans don't mean they don't have their own special hug of affection. If your dog nuzzles you, it's their hug equivalent — a sign of love and trust. They don't have arms, but they have body language just as warm.

They also show affection in licks, nuzzles, and following you everywhere. It's all their own special "I love you.".






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