All dogs are different and each has a different personality. However, they have some quirks and behaviors in common. Some of them may seem strange to their owners. To ensure your dog is happy and healthy, you need to be aware of common behaviors and learn to notice when something is wrong. Our list of some canine behaviors will help you start the journey to improve your pet’s life.
tilting the head
Head tilting is something you might see your dog doing quite often. You might see such behavior mainly with puppies. They seem to interrogate you. However, the small action can often mean they are trying to see or hear better. Or they hear a new sound or experience something unusual and can’t quite understand it. But if you notice that your dog has no control over the head tilt or is doing it more than usual, you should ask the vet to see if there are any health issues.
lick the air
When you see your dog licking air, it can have many causes. This can, for example, mean that your dog is hungry or thirsty. If you’re home, check their water bowl and if you’re away, take a drink break. It can also become the dog’s way of asking for attention if you recognize the behavior every time. It can also mean that there is something wrong with your pet. If you notice your dog licking the air excessively or out of the blue, you may want to consult your veterinarian to make sure there are no health concerns.
Pressing on their head
Seeing your dog leaning his head against a wall or other firm surfaces is not too common. However, you should be vigilant if you see your dog taking such actions. Such behavior is a sign of several serious health problems – from toxic poisoning to brain disease. When you see your dog pressing his head against hard surfaces, you should see the vet as soon as possible to see what the problem is and how you can fix it.
chasing their tails
When dogs chase after their tails, it can be considered playful behavior. However, seeing that your pets can’t get away or start chewing their tails once they catch them can be a sign of a serious health issue. If the dog continues to run in circles, it may indicate an ear infection. Some dogs can also develop obsessive-compulsive disorder. When you see that going around in circles isn’t just a game anymore, take your dog to the vet for a check-up.
lick people
When a dog licks you, it is most often a sign of affection. However, that doesn’t always mean they kiss you. Sometimes when dogs lick you, they can groom you, just like when a mother cleans and cares for her puppy. It can make dogs more relaxed. But you should still read their posture. If dogs are licking you and having a tense posture at the same time, they could be signaling that you’re too close to them and they need more space.
Lean on people
Leaning on their owners is typical, mainly for large dogs. They are affectionate animals, and when they lean on your feet, legs, or body, they just want to be closer to you and get your attention. In some cases, it can also be a sign of insecurity. Being close to you helps them deal with the situation. They are not trying to dominate you in any way. In some cases, it can also be a sign of separation anxiety. And if dogs lean on you because they have trouble standing or sitting up straight, make an appointment with a veterinarian.
Panting
Panting is completely normal dog behavior. However, it is still useful to know the reason behind it. Dogs don’t sweat like people. To protect themselves from overheating or heatstroke, they must rely on the exchange of air in their mouths to cool their bodies. Nevertheless, you should try to keep your dog cool as this is not very effective. Other reasons for panting can be stress, anxiety, or fear. In this case, you should do your best to remove the dog from the situation to improve sensation. It can also be a sign of illness or injury. If panting seems to be a problem, seek advice from the veterinarian.
Sitting on your feet or between your legs
If your dog likes to sit on your feet or between your legs, that’s another sign of love and affection. It can also make them feel more secure when feeling anxious or nervous. They want to be closer to you and are just trying to deal with their feelings. They may also do this when meeting new people or other dogs. This way they show others that you are their human.
This article originally appeared on petbloglady.com
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