All dogs are different, and each has a different personality. However, they have some quirks and behaviors in common. Some of them might seem strange to their owners. To ensure that your dog is happy and healthy, you should be aware of behaviors that are common and learn to notice when something seems wrong. Our list of some of the dog behaviors will help you to get started on the journey to make the life of your pet better.
Tilting Their Heads
Tilting their heads is something you might see your dog do pretty often. You might see such behavior mainly with puppies. They look like they are questioning you. However, the small action can often mean that they are trying to see or hear better. Or they hear a new sound or experience something unusual and cannot quite understand it. But if you notice that your dog does not have any control over the head leaning or does it more than usual, you should ask the vet to see if there are not any health issues.Licking Air
When you see your dog licking air, it can have many causes. It can, for example, mean that your dog is hungry or thirsty. If you are at home, check their water bowl, and if you are out, take a break to drink. It can also become the dog’s way of asking for attention if you acknowledge the behavior every time. It can also mean that there is something wrong with your pet. If you notice your dog licking air excessively or out of nowhere, you might want to consult your vet to ensure that there are no health problems.Pressing Their Head
Seeing your dog pressing their head against a wall or other firm surfaces is not too common. However, you must be alert if you see your dog taking such action. Such behavior is a sign of several serious health issues – from toxic poisoning to brain disease. When you see your dog pressing head against hard surfaces, you should see the vet as soon as possible to see what the issue is and how you can rectify it.Chasing Their Tails
When dogs are chasing their tails, it can be seen as playful behavior. However, seeing that your pets cannot snap out of it or start to chew their tails once they catch them might be a sign of a severe health problem. If the dog keeps running in circles, it can indicate an ear infection. Some dogs can also develop an obsessive-compulsive disorder. When you see that running in circles is not just a game anymore, take your dog to the vet for a check-up.Licking People
When a dog licks you, it is most often a sign of affection. However, it does not always have to mean that they are giving you a kiss. Sometimes when dogs lick you, they might be grooming you, just like when a mother cleans and takes care of her puppy. This can make dogs more relaxed. But you should always read their posture. If dogs lick you and have a tense posture at the same time, they might be giving you a signal that you are too close to them and they need more space.Leaning On People
Leaning on their owners is typical, mainly for larger 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 instances, 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 straight, arrange a meeting with a vet.Panting
Panting is a completely normal dog behavior. However, it is always helpful to know the reason behind it. Dogs do not sweat as people do. To protect themselves from overheating or a heat stroke, they need to rely on the air exchange in their mouths to cool their bodies down. Still, you should try to keep your dog cool because it is not very efficient. Other reasons for panting can be stress, anxiety, or fear. In that case, you should try your best to remove the dog from the situation to make the feeling better. It can also be a sign of illness or injury. If panting seems to be an issue, ask the vet for advice.Sitting On Your Feet Or Between Your Legs
If your dog likes to sit on your feet or between your legs, it is another sign of love and affection. It can also make them feel safer when they feel anxious or nervous. They want to be closer to you and are just trying to deal with their feelings. They can also do this when they meet new people or other dogs. This way, they are showing others that you are their human.This article was originally published on petbloglady.com
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