Common Dog Behaviors and What They Mean


The things your dog does can tell you a lot about how he’s feeling, and you don’t have to learn how to speak dog to understand them. You just have to learn about common dog behaviors and what they mean. For example, do you know what it means when your dog spins in a circle in front of you? How about when he sits on your feet? Once you start noting his behaviors, you’ll be able to understand just how he’s feeling!

Circling

Of course, some dogs spin in circles and chase their tails just for fun, but if you don’t think that’s what’s going on with your pooch, there are some health issues you might want to consider. If your dog can’t seem to resist the urge to walk in circles, you might want to rule out an ear infection. In older dogs, more serious issues like vestibular syndrome or a brain tumor are a concern. Give your vet a call if you have any cause for concern.

Digging

There’s no question that dogs love to dig for fun, but they do it for other reasons, too. Sometimes they just want a cool spot to lie down, they want to hide something, or they’re trying to escape the yard. Some dogs will even scratch and dig at their blanket to create the perfect cozy place to sleep. These are all perfectly normal dog behaviors, but if your dog is being destructive, you might want to consult with a professional trainer.

Sitting on Your Feet

Many people think their dog is being possessive when he sits on their feet or in between their legs, but it’s actually a sign of nervousness or anxiety. Your dogs simply feels safer when he’s close to you. If you feel like anxiety is affecting your dog’s behavior, consult with your vet to see if your dog might benefit from seeing a trainer.

Scooting

Have you ever wondered why your dog drags his behind across the ground? Unfortunately, scooting usually means that something is irritating your pup’s anus. There’s a good chance his anal glands need to be emptied, but there are other causes, too. It could simply be allergies. There’s also a small possibility of parasites.

Head Pressing

If your dog is pressing his head against the wall or some other firm surface, he needs to see the vet right away. Head pressing usually indicates a serious problem, such as brain disease or poisoning.

Poop Eating

Dogs eat poop for a variety of reasons, and sometimes it’s just a normal, while disgusting, behavior. Young dogs may be mimicking their mother’s behavior when she cleans them. He may simply be curious, smelling a certain scent, and wondering what it tastes like. He could even just be trying to hide the poop because he’s afraid he’ll get in trouble. On the other hand, poop can also indicate a nutrient deficiency, so changing his food may be in order.