Dogs may be humans' best friends. But they're not always great at communication. And a lot of things your dog might do can seem weird or strange. So here's a list of common dog behavior explained in simple terms...
Eating Tissue Paper
If your dog regularly eats tissue or toilet paper or anything else that isn't food, it could be a sign that they're suffering from a compulsive disorder called pica. It's worth watching out for this behavior and taking them to a vet if it gets serious.
Whimpering While Asleep
If your dog whimpers or kicks while they're asleep, don't panic. This is just a sign that they're dreaming normally. They're probably not having a nightmare, and it's not a good idea to wake them up as they'll end up being disoriented and could bite you out of surprise.
Chewing Their Feet
If your dog is chewing their feet, it could be a sign that they have a food sensitivity that's manifesting in an unusual way. There are plenty of food options available for dogs with weak tummies, and it's worth investigating these before you have to clean up after some unfortunate bowel movements.
Sneezing While Playing
Don't worry, your dog isn't allergic to themselves. Sneezing while playing is basically a dog's way of expressing their happiness and excitement. It's totally normal behavior, and it means you're doing a good job caring for your pet.
Eating Grass
You might assume that if your dog is eating grass, there must be something wrong with their stomach. This isn't the case; it's perfectly natural doggy behavior. That said, it could indicate that your dog is bored, so it might be best to play fetch for a while if it worries you.
Pacing in a Circle Before Sitting
Your dog's ancient ancestors were wolves, who would pad down the ground before curling up and going to sleep at night. This is baked into your dog, so a little gentle pacing before they sit is perfectly natural. If, on the other hand, your dog is pacing endlessly without sitting down, it could be a sign of anxiety or stress, and you should keep an eye on their other movements to see if there's something you can do to help.
Rolling in the Grass
A dog will roll around for fun, and also to fix their smell. If you've just groomed your dog, don't be surprised if they undo your good work, because to them, you've just made them smell terrible. Dogs would rather be covered in mud and dirt; that's just the way they like to be.
Puppy Dog Eyes
If your dog gives you a big, sad look, it doesn't necessarily mean that they're hoping for a treat. So-called puppy dog eyes are a way of dogs expressing their love, not just for begging (although let's be fair, it could definitely also be begging).
Looking at You Before Acting
If your dog seems nervous and wants to get your approval before taking an action, don't worry too much. This doesn't mean that your dog is overly shy or anxious, it simply means that they love and trust you, and they want your approval as pack leader.
Squinting
A dog can squint for many reasons, but while this behavior often looks a bit suspicious to humans (especially those who watch a lot of "The Simpsons"), it's often just a cry for attention. Go give your dog a cuddle if you see them narrowing their eyes - but this also doesn't mean that staring is a problem...
Intense Staring
While a dog may give a stranger an intense stare if they're feeling threatened, they'll also stare at people that they trust. You dog could be watching you carefully out of interest in what you're doing, or they could just be very eager to get some attention. Take this as a sign that you should go see what your dog is doing and maybe give them some affection.
Rising Bark
If your dog's bark sounds low at first before rising in pitch at the end, it's an indication that they want playtime. This kind of cry is basically a call to action, and it indicates that you really ought to take them for a walk in the park.
Howling at Nothing
Howling at thin air can be a sign of something wrong (such as sickness or pain), but often it simply means that your puny human ears are missing out. Dogs can hear much better than humans, so anything from a train whistle or the hum of a piece of electronics can cause them to respond with a howl. If your dog is howling at nothing, but doesn't seem distressed, they might have a good reason that you just can't hear.
Licking Humans
If a dog licks you, it's because you're in charge. You're the alpha of the pack, and the dog is showing you affection and subservience. Thank the dog for this behavior, and try to distract them, rather than getting angry that your new shirt is covered in slobber.
Sleeping in Your Bed
Why does your dog ignore its own comfy basket in favor of messing up your bed? It's because your bed smells like you, and your dog loves that smell because they love you. This is why it's common to find your dog snuggled up in your bed when you come home for the day - they've had to wait around for hours, and they miss you, so they're enjoying your smell.
Leaning on Humans
If a dog leans on you, it's because they want attention. This is easier to figure out with bigger dogs thanks to their added weight, but if even a tiny little dog comes up and puts their weight on you, it's a sign that you need to play with them.
Humping
Don't be too mad at a dog if they're humping everything in sight. Dogs show this behavior for lots of reasons, including simply being excited, so it's not just about wanting to make little dog babies with anyone or anything that comes past.
Eating Feces
Yes, sometimes your dog will eat their own droppings. No, it's not something to worry about. Sometimes dogs simply like the taste, while at other times they could show subservience by eating the leavings of a more senior dog in the pack. But there is a solution - add a little pineapple to your dog's diet, and they'll no longer like the smell of their fecal matter.
Excessive Tail Chasing
We all know that dogs love to chase their tails, but it's less well known that this can be a sign that something's wrong. A little tail chasing is nice and healthy, but if this behavior is excessive, it could be a sign that your dog is developing obsessive compulsive tendencies, and might need to see a vet.
Chewing Wood and Cardboard
Why would a dog want to chew wood or card? Because it's fun! Dogs love to chew, and for the same reason that humans enjoy chewing gum, dogs get a kick out of crunching wood even if it's not particularly nutritional. Just be warned, as splinters are never fun, no matter where in your dog's digestive system they end up.
The Head Tilt
The doggy head tilt is very famous behavior, and people typically assume it means that your dog is trying to think of something. In reality, this is helpful for taking in as much sound as possible, so it means that your dog is listening intently to something (and may be about to bolt after a nearby squirrel).
Ignoring the Food Bowl
Does your dog refuse to eat from their bowl, instead carrying their food away to another room to eat? This isn't a negative sign, it's simply another instinct that's left over from your dog's wolfy past. Your dog is trying to keep their food safe, and no matter how comfortable they may be in your home, they're always going to be a bit on edge while eating.
Lip Licking
A moderate amount of lip licking - especially during meals - is no big deal. But lots of lip licking is a sign of stress in dogs. Keep an eye on this behavior and take them to a vet if you get worried.
Exposing Their Belly
If your dog is showing off their belly, they probably want a scratch, or to be loved. This is a sign that your dog could do with some affection, so maybe spend some time playing with them.
Crouching
If a dog is crouched or hunched over, they're scared. They're trying to make themselves as small as possible to avoid being spotted. Give your dog some reassuring cuddles, and try removing them from whatever environment is making them anxious.