Nice to meet you! As humans, we like to greet each other by waving, handshakes, or hugs. Each varying degree of greeting is determined by our relationship with a person.

However, with dogs, they really get up close and personal by sniffing each other’s butts! No matter if they are meeting another dog for the first time or if it is their best buddy, to each other’s rear ends, they go. Talk about making a first impression!

While we would never imagine greeting another person like this, this is “Etiquette 101” for our furry pals. It leads us to wonder, why in the world would you sniff there? Let’s chat about some reasons why our dogs like to sniff butts.

Sense of Smell

As a pet parent, you know the shenanigans your dog can get into when they follow their nose. Trash cans get overturned, holes get dug in the yard, and Houdini has nothing on some dogs if there is something out there they want to investigate.

Humans rely on their sense of sight to get to know the world around them, but your puppy uses their nose. Your dog’s sniffer is a powerhouse in the senses department, and it is the main sense they use to perceive information about the world around them.

A dog’s nose is hyper-sensitive — it’s 100,000 times more powerful than our smelling abilities. Our pups can be overwhelmed by scents we wouldn’t even pay attention to.

Let’s get into some reasons why dogs sniff each other’s butts and how that helps them learn about the world and other animals around them.

Greeting

While it’s easy to think that your dog is trying to smell another dog’s poop, that is certainly not the case. While the location is a bit unfortunate to humans, to dogs, it is just a part of nature. Dogs have anal glands, which are two sac-like glands that produce pheromones that give chemical signals that relay info about diet, health, gender, and mood.

By sniffing each other’s rear ends in greeting, dogs can exchange a wealth of information. Dogs can also remember each other’s scents and recognize when they have met a particular fluffy friend before.

Gathering Information

If you are old enough to remember chat rooms of the early days of the internet, you would remember being asked A/S/L, which stands for age/sex/location. This acronym helped to establish a little bit of personal information with whoever you were chatting with.

Dogs do the same when meeting new dogs or when they are in a new location. Canines use their sense of smell to gather information about the world around them. This even includes if things happened in the past, like another animal wandering through the area. A quick sniff gives them a multitude of important information.

When dogs meet each other, their smelling habits help to establish or reestablish their relationship. Even if your pups have met before, they will likely still sniff each other’s butts to get a status update on how your dog is doing. Like humans, dogs want to catch up with each other and get all the updated information since they last saw their pals.

Establishing Dominance

We know that dogs like to mark their territory, as this tells other dogs in the area that this particular patch of grass belongs to them. Urine marking helps your dog feel more secure in their space and that they are in charge.

When other dogs come into this space, they can smell that another dog has marked this territory. When the canines sniff each other’s rear ends, the connection is made that this dog’s scent matches the markings in the territory, and this helps to establish a social hierarchy.

While other types of body language help to establish dominance in dogs, you can see this dominance by order of sniffing. A dominant dog will initiate the sniffing, and the submissive dog will wait their turn.

If your dog is meeting another dog for the first time, watch this interaction closely. Some dogs do not like lengthy smelling sessions, and they may show aggression if it is going longer than they like. Watch for growling, raised hair on the back, certain tail positions, and raised lips. If this occurs, separate the dogs and try again later. Even dogs who have puppy play dates frequently should be monitored as they romp.

If things get a little hairy and you aren’t sure what to do next, check out our dog training resources for advice and training tips.

Get To the Bottom of Things With AskVet

While our dogs exchange information in ways that we may otherwise opt out of, we still want to get reliable and trustworthy information about our pets. Dog behavior can leave us scratching our heads sometimes. You may ask yourself, “Why does this behavior happen” or “Is this behavior normal?”.

AskVet is your go-to anytime you have a pet parent question. While sniffing butts is completely normal in the dog world, your human guests may not quite enjoy that same greeting when coming to your home. You may want advice on if there is anything you can do to get your dog from being the most personable welcome wagon ever, and our behavioral specialists can help you with that.

Whether you have a specific question or need to construct a personalized plan for your unique dog (or any other pet), book a virtual session with a Certified Pet Lifestyle Coach™ from AskVet who can help.

With personalized plans for your dog and the AskVet Clubhouse, you can feel like a well-prepared pet parent, no matter your dog’s breed or age. No need to go sniffing for solutions — we have them here!

Sources:

The Nose Knows: Is There Anything Like a Dog’s Nose? | AKC

Canine Olfaction: Physiology, Behavior, and Possibilities for Practical Applications | National Library of Medicine

Understanding Dog Appeasement Signals | Whole Dog Journal

Urine Marking in Dogs | UC Davis

Isn’t it funny to think about how our dogs can communicate with us and how we can communicate with them? We live with actual animals, but we can interpret and convey messages back and forth with each other. We love them so much, but the entire idea can be a wild one when you think deeply about it. We’re social, and so are they!

Our dogs understand “treats,” dinner,” “bath time,” “vet,” “walk,” and countless other words. We also know that they act accordingly to whatever word they hear. We witness this by our dog getting all tippy-tappy and excited when they hear a word they like or hiding behind a piece of furniture when they hear a word they don’t like.

It’s clear that our dogs understand us. We can see that they comprehend our words and actions through the canine training process (and their reactions to things we say and do).

The big question is, do we truly understand them? Dogs communicate in various ways, and the most famous way they make themselves known is through their bark.

Let’s dig in on what our dog’s barks mean and if there are ways that we can figure out what they are trying to tell us.

Why Do Dogs Bark?

Out of all the sounds in the animal kingdom, a barking dog is probably one of the most well-known and recognizable sounds. Dogs use their bark to communicate, and just like humans use their voices, barks can be used in a variety of ways.

Of course, barks can sound different from breed to breed. Larger dogs will have a more intimidating boom of a bark, while smaller breeds will have a high-pitched yap. As the relationship between you and your dog grows, you’ll recognize their barks and determine what they are trying to communicate.

Greeting

Do you have a built-in welcoming committee when you walk through the door every afternoon? Your dog is excited to see you, especially if you have been at work all day. You may see them act the same no matter if you’ve been gone for thirty minutes or eight hours.

Either way, it is a sweet way to be welcomed home, and we appreciate our furry best friends for always being excited about our presence.

With their happy barks, your dog is showing that they are thrilled to see you and have missed you. Their barks will be more high-pitched and can be compared to a cheerful “Hey! You’re home!” This is often seen with a wagging tail. Your dog may even hop around and jump on you during their welcome greeting.

Territory

Does your dog hang out by the window all day and bark whenever another person or animal passes? Your dog is telling the passer-by that they are encroaching on their territory.

These barks might go on for longer and be louder than the “I’m hungry” barks. This will likely be partnered with a stiffer stance with direct staring at the trespasser in question. Essentially, the more worked up your dog is about something, the more excessive the barking.

To our dogs, it doesn’t matter if it is a mail carrier dropping off a package or a cat slinking through the yard, someone is in their area, and your dog is going to tell them and you all about it.

Attention Grabbing

When your dog is trying to get your attention, they’ll use different sounds along with their bark to indicate that they want something. Maybe their food or water dish needs to be refilled, or they need to relieve themselves outside. Either way, your dog may have more of a commanding bark along with other vocalizations to indicate that they need something.

Your dog may pair their vocal calls with certain body language, like trying to lead you to the door or to their empty dish. Depending on the urgency, like the call of nature, dogs may whine to indicate that they are in a hurry.

Boredom

Do you ever catch yourself whistling or singing when you are doing a monotonous task? If your dog is bored, they may bark as a way to alleviate the silence and stillness that is around them if they are left alone for long periods of time. They are looking to release pent-up energy and seek attention from anyone or anything that will respond to their bark.

To ensure your dog doesn’t resort to barking to alleviate their boredom, give them ample opportunities to exercise and stimulate their mind. If you work out of the home, leave your dog with chew toys and treat puzzles to keep them occupied. You may also want to arrange a dog walker or take them to doggy daycare, depending on how long you’ll be away.

Bark Up the Right Tree With AskVet

As your relationship with your dog grows, you’ll be able to determine what your dog’s barks mean. You’ll know when they feel excited or when it’s time to take a potty break.

Sometimes though, our dogs may bark at things we don’t hear, see, or smell. While we know that a dog’s senses can differ from ours, sometimes it’s hard to tell if our dog is barking at something tangible or if there is a behavioral issue occurring.

Enter AskVet. Our experts can help out when you are having a ruff time with behaviors your dog is exhibiting. If excessive barking is giving you and your home a headache, our team of Certified Pet Lifestyle Coaches™ can help with tips and tricks to help reduce any unwanted barking.

Schedule a virtual session with a CPLC™ and see how our experts can help with not only problem-solving solutions but also creating wellness plans so you and your pet can enjoy all the time you have together.

Sources:

Ethology of Barking – Why Do Dogs Bark? | Australian Institute of Animal Management

The Meaning of Your Dog’s Barks | American Kennel Club

Do children understand man’s best friend? Classification of dog barks | ScienceDirect

Canine Olfaction: Physiology, Behavior, and Possibilities for Practical Applications | PMC

The more you get to know your dog, the more you will become familiar with their behaviors: one of them could be the stare-down. Most dogs have quirks that can notify you of changes or peculiarities, as a dog’s behavior is indicative of how they are feeling.

Staring at their human can be a dog’s way to communicate several different things. In general, your dog staring at you is exactly that: them trying to relay information. It’s generally the same reasoning for why cats stare at people as well. Using other context clues, you might be able to determine what your dog is trying to tell you.

Keep reading to learn more about why your dog is staring at you and how to guess what they are thinking.

Dogs Pay Attention To Dog Lovers

It’s no secret that dogs like to follow their humans. Not only are they intrigued by everything that you do, but you are their main source of — well, basically everything. You feed them, give them treats, pet them, take them outside for walks and bathroom breaks, and much more! If you’re at home and around your pet, their eyes are going to be checking in on you as much as possible.

Despite your dog’s eyes being on you all the time, they might not be trying to say the same thing to you with each stare. Every stare could mean something different, from needing to use the potty to simply showing you affection. You can usually figure out what their needs are by looking at the other behaviors they are exhibiting.

Reasons Why Dogs Stare 

There could be multiple reasons why your dog is staring at you. You know your dog best and might be able to figure it out quickly, especially after years of figuring out their communication style.

Being fluent in your dog’s body language and what certain changes mean can help you understand your dog better. However, if you’re a new pet parent or meeting a new dog, you might be wondering what their stares mean.

1. Your Dog Wants Something

The most common reason for your dog to be staring at you is that they simply want something. They might be standing and staring at you because they want you to get a toy that has rolled under the couch. Or they could be staring at you on the couch, wondering when you will make your way over to give them a good cuddle. Dogs use eye contact to express all these desires.

When you or a dog trainer are training your dog, you often reward them when they look at you. During dog training sessions, this becomes a learned behavior that teaches your dog that when they look at you, they might get a treat or a pat or some kind of positive acknowledgment.

Consider what is going on around your dog that might be an indicator of what they want. Is the food you’re eating during mealtime more appetizing than the dog food in their bowl? Is it your spot on the couch? Are they staring at the door because they need to go potty?

A dog’s stare (and the so-called “puppy eyes”) can be quite powerful and persuasive.

2. Showing You Affection

Dogs staring at you can be a sign of affection from them. When you know a pup personally, staring into your eyes could be a way for them to convey how they feel about you. Studies revealed that mutual staring between a human and their pet could cause an increase in the release of oxytocin, AKA the love hormone.

To reward them for their loving gaze, shower them with affection. It is what they deserve!

3. Expressing Aggression

While this isn’t always the case, sometimes a dog staring at you can be a sign of aggression. With your own dog, you might be able to sense when something is off with their behavior if they are staring at you and it’s making you uncomfortable. However, with dogs you don’t know, the stiff posture and hard stare can be intense and aggressive behavior.

You should never make prolonged eye contact with a dog that you don’t know or that is seemingly aggressive. This can send the wrong signal to that dog. Dogs that are staring you down while also being very still and seeming agitated are warning you to back off. At this point, listen and ensure your personal safety, as well as the dog’s comfort.

4. Your Dog Is Aging

As dogs enter their golden years, they might try to convey distress through an intentional stare.

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome can affect older dogs, and it can result in more confusion and disorientation. This stare might look blank as if searching your eyes for more guidance.

If your dog is staring at you with a glazed-over look, contact your veterinarian to seek help or possible treatment. They can help you treat any underlying conditions as well as make things easier by helping them to live in a stress-free environment.

Should You Be Concerned?

Unless you feel uncomfortable or sense that something is wrong with your dog, their staring and fixation with you is likely quite normal. They love you and don’t know how to say it in the same language we would with them. They want to look at you because they do genuinely like you and want to communicate with you.

When we say you know your dog best, we mean that! But that doesn’t mean that questions and concerns never come up. When you feel a question forming, chat with a Certified Pet Lifestyle Coach™ from AskVet for help.

You can get real-time responses that can help guide you to the next steps in understanding your pet’s staring behavior better. Schedule a virtual session with a CPLC™ for any assistance you need with every non-human member of your family.

With access to answers, a community of other pet parents, and resources for helping your pet, AskVet has got you covered.

Sources:

Oxytocin-Gaze Positive Loop And The Coevolution Of Human-Dog Bonds | Science

Communication In Dogs | NCBI

A Review On Mitigating Fear And Aggression In Dogs And Cats In A Veterinary Setting | NCBI

Cognitive Decline In Aging Dogs: What To Know | VMBS News

You turn your back for one second, and your dog is taking in a mouthful of grass. Why, you might ask? The reasons for your dog to be eating grass can vary. There is not only one reason for your dog to eat grass whenever you go outside, but it’s also not something to always be worried about.

In fact, the more you tell your dog not to eat grass, the more likely it is that they’ll think it’s a game. Before you rush your dog to the vet, read on to learn more about five common reasons why your dog is treating your lawn like a salad bar.

Is Eating Grass Bad For My Dog?

Most dog owners associate a dog eating grass with them having an upset stomach or simply being hungry. Unfortunately, it’s hard to determine what comes first: the upset stomach and then the eating of grass to soothe it, or the eating of the grass and it resulting in an upset stomach.

Eating too much grass might make your dog vomit if they aren’t used to eating grass. Additionally, it might be a sign that something else is lacking in your dog’s diet. Keep an eye on your dog’s grass intake, and don’t be afraid to interfere if it’s clearly making your dog sick. Some grass does include pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides that can make your pet sick.

Why Does My Dog Eat Grass? Common Reasons Why Dogs Eat Grass

Dogs eat grass for a number of reasons, none of which give a simple answer. Some dogs enjoy munching on the roughage and won’t overindulge to the point that it makes them empty out their stomach contents. A few might think that it’s a game of keep-away, doing it in a playful sense. For most, this form of plant-eating is a rather common and natural behavior.

Some canines will experience anxiety or stress ,and it can result in them nibbling on grass, similar to the way a person might bite their fingernails when anxious. Not every reason for your dog’s grass-eating behavior should concern you, but monitoring what your dog eats is wise.

Nutritional Deficiency

The literal term to define a dog who eats non-food items is pica. This can be associated with a nutrient, mineral, or vitamin deficiency. Most dogs get the recommended nutrition naturally in their well-balanced diets, so eating grass isn’t always a clear indicator of that being the problem. However, eating grass may signify that your dog needs to start a high-fiber diet to get the nutrients and roughage they need.

If your pup is eating grass frequently, consult with your DVM about the dog food you are feeding your pet. You might need to switch up your pet’s food and find something that has more vitamins, nutrients, and minerals.

Anxiety

Dogs — especially younger dogs — that are experiencing anxiety might eat grass to self-soothe. If your dog thinks you are going to be leaving soon, the taste of grass might calm their nerves.

If they know that eating grass is a frowned-upon behavior, they might begin to eat more of it as their anxiety increases, almost as a way to get attention from their humans. Sometimes bringing chew toys or a good-smelling shirt outside with you can ease your dog’s anxiety and limit their need to chomp on some grass.

Boredom

Dogs often get bored when they are outside and look for any sort of stimulation. To be fair, eating grass is probably better than them trying to eat rocks or sticks. At some point in our childhood, it’s likely we’ve put grass in our mouth as if it were a vegetable, so we can’t blame our dog for doing it themselves!

Most dogs would rather be entertained by their humans, and so if they are left outside alone for any amount of time, eating grass sounds like a way to entertain themselves.

Getting a Quick Snack

It may be that your dog simply enjoys the taste or texture of grass. They might have tried it once and figured out that it was a nice snack to get while outside. Many dogs will grab a mouthful while walking as if taking a snack on the go. Unfortunately, this curiosity and interest in food may motivate your dog to eat other gross stuff they find along the path (such as another animal’s poop).

Again, monitoring what your dog is consuming is your best course of action. That way, you can keep track of anything that might cause her an issue later on.

Instincts

Before wild dogs were domesticated, they scavenged for food. While they have always eaten both meat and plants, most people assume that dogs need meat and only meat to survive. Grass has a lot of fiber in it and can help with digesting food. Additionally, it’s easy to come across, so when you’re hungry, you’ll take what you can find.

Your dog might just be grazing because it’s a part of their instinct to scavenge for food. There’s no real reason to stop your dog from exhibiting normal dog behavior, only if it’s going to hurt them in the long run.

How Do I Stop My Dog From Eating Grass?

While it’s not necessarily the worst thing that your dog can do, you might not want your dog to eat certain types of grass or eat grass altogether. There are a few ways that you can limit the amount of grass that your dog eats when outside and on walks.

• Teach your dog the “Leave it” command. When your dog is eating grass, you can call out this command; over time, it should become known that grass is off-limits, and hopefully, your dog will pick up on that.
• When outside, keep him occupied with toys or playtime. If they start to eat grass, redirect them with a toy.
• Keep houseplants away from dogs; anything leafy and green might attract your dog. Recall that certain houseplants are toxic to pets.
• Feed your dog smaller and more frequent meals so that you satisfy their desire to eat high-quality food instead of grass.

Get Answers With AskVet

Whenever a question arises about a pet, it can send a person into a frenzy. Trying to find the best answers can be difficult, but not when you have AskVet. Any questions that you have about your animals can be answered by the Certified Pet Lifestyle Coach™ (CPLC™) at any time of the day.

Schedule a remote session to get started on building a 360° Pet Care plan unique to your animal. You can discuss your pet’s diet and nutritional needs, exercise needs, or any health concerns you might have with an expert only a few clicks away.

Plus, you gain access to a network of other pet lovers in the AskVet Clubhouse who are just trying to navigate being a pet parent. Sign-up today to learn more about AskVet and how it can be beneficial to you!

Sources:

Grass Eating Patterns In The Domestic Dog, Canis Familiaris | University of New England

Unusual Eating Habits in Dogs and Cats | UC Davis Veterinary Medicine

Why Do Dogs And Cats Eat Grass? | Research Gate

Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants | ASPCA

Without a doubt, chasing after things is a favorite activity of dogs all over. From the squirrel in the front yard to a frisbee in the park, our pooches love to be in pursuit of fun. We love watching our adorable goofballs, and they love providing us with joyful moments.

A familiar silly moment that’s been depicted in movies or TV time and time again is that of a dog chasing its tail. Watching a dog twirl round and round, chasing after the end of their body, is sure to provide some giggles.

We know that our dogs can be quite the smartypants, as evidenced by their uncanny ability to nab treats right off the counter or escape their doggy crates. Surely they know that they are chasing themself? Are they just being silly, or is there another reason why they are pursuing their own tail?

Let’s look at some of the most common reasons for this common dog behavior.

Boredom

Boredom can be one of the main reasons why your dog is chasing their tail. If they’re cooped up all day without a chance to have some physical or mental stimulation, they may take things into their own paws and figure out a way to let off a little steam. Enter chasing after that fluffy tail; they believe if they run fast enough, they will eventually catch it.

Bored dogs can become inquisitive dogs, and that can lead to trouble. If you sense that your dog needs a bit more stimulation, adding in more and longer walks can help get out all that pent-up energy in a more productive way. Bring a few dog puzzles home to engage your dog’s mind and keep it off their tail.

Genetics

According to animal behaviorists, certain compulsive behaviors can certainly be predisposed across dog breeds. Hounds will follow their nose to the ends of the Earth. Herding dogs, like collies, will herd anything in a group. Sheep, ducklings, and even groups of children have been pushed close together by herding dogs. One of the main reasons dogs engage in these repetitive behaviors is genetics.

One interesting fact about tail chasing is that some breeds are more disposed to tail chasing than others. German Shepherds, Anatolian Sheepdogs, and Bull Terriers are known for compulsive tail chasing. While the exact reasons for their tail chasing are unknown, if you have one of these breeds, ensure they have plenty of other ways to keep occupied.

If you are still bewildered by your dog’s tail chasing, you can contact AskVet, and our behavior experts will help you find alternatives that will promote healthy, happy behavior.

Attention Seeking

Our pups can be fast learners, particularly when one of their actions results in positive behavior from you. Your dog may see that tail chasing causes you to laugh, act excited, and shower them with affection.

This positive reinforcement incentivizes their behavior; they’ll keep doing it whenever they want to get a positive reaction out of you. Keep this behavior at bay by ensuring you devote some quality playtime to your furry best pal every day.

If your dog has already started to chase their tail to elicit a response from you, ignore the behavior until it stops. Once it stops, praise your dog. Eventually, your dog will learn that you will no longer show any response to this action, and they’ll stop chasing after their tail.

Medical Condition

An itchy tail or bottom can be a big reason your dog is chasing their tail. They may have fleas or intestinal parasites. Perhaps their anal glands need to be expressed, or your pup has a skin condition that can cause itchiness or discomfort.

If your dog cannot reach this uncomfortable or painful area with their paws, they may try to use their mouth. This can cause your dog to look like they are chasing their tail. But in reality, they are trying to soothe itchy or irritated skin.

When persistent tail chasing happens out of nowhere, this could be indicative of a medical issue, and a visit to your veterinarian is needed to rule out any serious medical conditions. If something is amiss, your veterinarian should diagnose the problems and prescribe any medications that will give your best buddy relief.

Cognitive Disorders

Anxiety and stress can cause your dog to become a persistent tail chaser. Dogs can experience obsessive-compulsive disorder, just like humans. Instead of nail-biting or persistent hand-washing, dogs will chase their tails. When dog parents notice behavior problems like tail-chasing, OCD is sometimes a contributor.

Whenever your pet is feeling anxious, maybe they are feeling separation anxiety whenever their best friend (you) leaves the house, they may choose to chase their tail as a way to soothe their emotions.

This is not healthy behavior if your dog constantly does this while you are away. Especially if they can catch their tail, your dog may choose to chew on it and damage the skin. This can lead to infections. As your pet continues to feel anxious, it can become an all-consuming cycle.

Chase Away Pet Parent Concerns with AskVet

Tail chasing can be a one-off cute behavior that your dog does from time to time. Just like the zoomies, it is laughter-inducing and provides wholesome entertainment. When this behavior occurs sporadically, it is a natural and normal behavior. However, if it starts to become a habitual behavior, it can be a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed by a DVM to rule out any concerning medical conditions.

A Certified Pet Lifestyle Coach™ (CPLC™) at AskVet could be your best first stop when you are concerned about tail chasing. Our experts are just the partners you want to have when it comes to your pet’s wellness journey.

Your pet’s personality is one of a kind, and when you schedule a virtual consultation with a CPLC™, our experts can help you create an equally unique Pet Lifestyle Plan to lay the best foundation for your best pal to thrive. From fish to felines and very fluffy or scaly companions in between, the AskVet team and community are here to lend a hand.

Sources:

A Vicious Cycle: A Cross-Sectional Study of Canine Tail-Chasing | PLOS ONE

Characteristics of compulsive tail chasing and associated risk factors in Bull Terriers | AMVA

Training and veterinary care | Britannica

Genomic Risk for Severe Canine Compulsive Disorder, a Dog Model of Human OCD | International Journal of Applied Research

Who here has been a victim of tripping over your dog after somehow forgetting that they are right behind us? Most of us who have dogs are used to having a canine shadow wherever we travel in the house, but that doesn’t mean we forget from time to time and end up bumping into them.

You might be wondering, “Why is my dog insistent on following me around?” “Why can I not go to the bathroom alone?” “Are they being clingy?” There are a few different reasons why your dog likes to be involved in everything you do, ranging from simply loving you to having separation anxiety.

Keep reading to learn more about why dogs trail after their humans so much:

My Dog Follows Me Everywhere. Why?

Dogs are loyal companions who are devoted to their humans. In general, dogs have a pack mentality and like to identify a leader to follow. If you’ve been able to train your dog and work with them to establish your reliability and authority, it’s likely that your dog views you as this leader.

Naturally, your canine companion is going to want to follow you and see what you’re up to because they like to spend time with you. They also rely on their humans for everything in their daily routines: food, water, playing, walks, bathroom breaks, and of course, treats.

If you’re moving about the house, they will be inclined to follow you from room to room simply to see what you are getting up to. You’re the center of your dog’s attention.

Remember: you are your dog’s best friend!

Your Dog’s Personality Has an Impact on Their Clingy Behavior

Not all furry family members are going to be as attached to their person as some will be. Dog breeds have different personalities that reflect how they act at home when with their pet parents. You might be a high-energy dog parent who ends up with a really lazy dog who wouldn’t move from their spot on the couch unless food was guaranteed!

Working and herding dogs like border collies are often deeply attached to their person, and the same goes for older dogs who rely on their humans for additional assistance. Smaller dogs like chihuahuas also like to stay close to their humans. Some puppies might be more rambunctious and ambitious, leaving your side to find trouble to get into, but more often than not, if you walk the opposite way, your puppy will come next.

What Is Separation Anxiety? How Your Dog Reacts to You Leaving.

There is such a thing as a velcro-dog. These dogs are attached to their human’s hips and prefer to spend all of their time next to them. The difference between a velcro dog and a dog with separation anxiety comes down to whether or not your dog suffers from anxiety.

Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety can experience it in multiple different ways. When they are away from their person, even for a short period of time, they go into a true panic attack and make themselves ill or show signs of destructive behavior.

If you’re worried that your dog pursuing you around is becoming an issue, more so for them than you, consider talking with their veterinarian about ways to help. The best way to combat separation anxiety is to work on building confidence in your dog. The sooner you get your dog’s help, the happier they will be.

Reasons Dogs Follow Their Humans

Your dog relies on you for most things. They anticipate that you will give them food and water at set times, take them out for bathroom breaks when they need to go, and play and snuggle throughout the day. Even if they are getting all of that and more, they will still want to be close by when you’re home.

While most reasons that your dog is following you are harmless and quite sweet, there is always the possibility that your dog is feeling unwell or looking for you to help them.

They Love You

Dogs are incredibly social animals that like to spend as much time as possible with their humans. Whether you are playing with them, snuggling on the couch, or more, it’s a sign that they adore you.

Dogs release the hormone oxytocin when they interact with a person that they like. This hormone gives the feeling of happiness and draws your dog closer to you.

If your dog has chosen you to follow, it’s because they know that you will fulfill their needs and provide them with safety and security. Having a dog that is attached to your hip is not a bad thing; some might even say it is quite the compliment.

They’re Bored

When a dog is simply looking for something to do, they might tag along to see if you are getting into anything interesting. If your dog is following you, they might be bored. To address this behavior, keep plenty of toys available for your dog to play with throughout your house.

You can also spend time working on training with your dog. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical stimulation. Having puzzles, learning new tricks, and interactive toys can help limit your dog’s boredom.

They Might Be Looking for a Reward

As much as your dog loves you, they all know that you are the person who gives them what they want. Often it’s taught during dog training that listening and paying attention to their human is enough to reward them with a treat. Your dog might be following you because they think they can get something out of it based on positive reinforcement.

This is something that your pet will pick up on the longer they spend time with you. How do you react when your pet follows you? Do you give them a treat, do you ignore them altogether, or do you give them a pat on the head?

If you reward them when they follow you, they will continue to do so as they age. This is a dog behavior that is more learned than anything in this case, so you might have had a hand in teaching your dog to track you through the house.

Your Dog Might Need Something

Dogs communicate in multiple ways that are much different from how humans communicate with each other. Your dog knows that they need something but might not know the best way to ask for it. Can you blame them?

If your dog is trailing behind you, they might be in need of something. From attention to a bathroom break to needing physical activity, your dog might be trying to tell you what they need. You might be able to tell if this is the case if your dog is whining, pacing, and barking at you or acting strange compared to their usual self.

They Might Be Feeling Anxious

Dogs with separation anxiety are more glued to your side than others. However, separation anxiety isn’t the only cause of general anxiety. If your anxious dog is worried about something or thinks they must be alert, they might become more anxious and look to you for security.

If your dog is anxious or afraid, they might pin their ears back or give you “whale eyes” — when their eyes widen and their pupils dilate as your dog stares at you. If your pup is afraid of thunderstorms or fireworks, you’ve likely seen this reaction before.

Your dog’s body language might significantly change, including a tucked tail or even intense shaking. If your dog feels anxious, they’ll likely stick closely behind you or even hide in the darkest corner of the house. Separation anxiety usually requires some assistance from a professional dog trainer.

It’s a Natural Instinct

It is a part of a dog’s social behavior to stick close to someone they trust. If that happens to be you, then congratulations! You’re likely your dog’s favorite. Your dog might be nosy, but they truly just want to know what you’re up to.

As mentioned before, dogs are pack animals, and it’s in their nature to imprint on a leader and follow them. They will look to you to make sure that there are no threats, that they will be sure to eat, and will be fulfilled in a variety of different ways.

However, sometimes we don’t want our dogs following us. For example, we might not want older dogs climbing down the stairs to the basement. This is when pet-proofing additions like baby gates are a smart purchase.

Ask Questions Through AskVet

When you have a dog, there’s no such thing as a silly question. Being a dog parent can be anxiety-inducing, so it’s always nice to find others who are dealing with similar issues. When you sign up with AskVet, you can gain access to a community of other pet lovers looking to form connections.

After setting up a virtual call with a Certified Pet Lifestyle Coach™, you can ask any question that you have and have an intelligent and helpful response given back to you. Sign up today in order to learn more about your pet and how you can improve their life.

Sources:

Canine Separation Anxiety: Strategies For Treatment And Management | NCBI

Communication In Dogs | NCBI

A Review of Domestic Dogs’ (Canis Familiaris) Human-Like Behaviors: Or Why Behavior Analysts Should Stop Worrying and Love Their Dogs | NCBI

The Role of Oxytocin in the Dog–Owner Relationship | PMC

Dog zoomies are an adorable and entertaining form of energy that simply can’t be contained by dog parents. If you are a pet parent, you are likely familiar with your dog’s random bursts all around the house and yard. They will sprint around you, spin around, and zig-zag between objects, all with a crazed look in their eye.

You may be familiar with these acts, but are you positive about why your dog has them? There are several reasons that dogs get zoomies, so keep reading to learn more!

What Is a Case of the Zoomies?

Zoomies are known as random bursts of energy, but they have a scientific name. Frenetic random activity periods (FRAPS) is the technical term for this excess energy, and they can happen for a number of reasons.

It is a normal phenomenon that all dogs will have at some point in their life, especially dog breeds that are happy and comfortable. They are very common in young dogs, who tend to have more energy than other ages, but that doesn’t mean senior dogs won’t get the zoomies and show you that they are still young at heart.

Should I Be Concerned When My Dog Goes Wild?

Zoomies are rarely canine behavior to be concerned about, especially in puppies in high-energy dogs of all ages. Still, if your dog is doing zoomies relentlessly, they might need more attention and enough exercise. It’s likely they have too much pent-up energy and need to find new ways to release it. Zoomies are the easiest way to do so.

Mental stimulation and physical exercises are good for a dog who has a lot of zoomies. Both can tire out your dog in a good way without overworking them or putting them in any danger. Your dog needs exercise anyway, so change it up and offer them several avenues to do so! Who knows? Maybe you’ll each find a new hobby, like agility or herding!

6 Reasons Dogs Get Zoomies

When it comes to the zoomies, the simple reason for them is that your dog has a lot of energy pent up. This is true, but there could be other factors involved that influence your dog’s zoomies. From warming up, releasing anxiety, and even relieving pain, there are plenty of reasons that your dog might be running around the living room like crazy.

1. They Are Trying To Warm Up

If your dog is feeling particularly cold or it’s a chilly day, they might do the zoomies to help warm up quickly. They might do them in the backyard a few times or when they get back inside from a walk. Zoomies allow them to get their blood pumping and warm up easier than if they were to stand still.

This might also happen to dogs who get out of a lake or bath and are looking for a way to dry off.

2. They Are Releasing Anxiety or Tension

Some dogs who have a build-up of stress or tension will do zoomies once they are feeling a bit better. It’s kind of like the zoomies will help to shake off their anxiety and get all of the tension out of their adorable bodies.

If your dog is in a stressful situation, the zoomies might happen right afterward. For dogs that hate bath time, releasing their nervous energy and needing to warm up is the perfect reason for zoomies.

3. They Are Feeling Super Excited

According to animal behaviorists, zoomies are a tell-tale sign that your dog is happy and excited. They might need to release that excitement, and an appropriate way for them to do so is to run around like a madman in the dog park — or start jumping over the coffee table.

If your dog has specific people or dogs they are in love with, they might get the zoomies when they see them. You might arrive at grandma’s house and watch the zoomies unleash straight out of the car.

When your dog gets the zoomies because they are excited, don’t be afraid to egg your dog on and keep them in that mode! They will love it if you begin to play with them.

4. They’re Celebrating After Going to the Bathroom

Some younger dogs will have a quick zoomie if they have finished going to the bathroom. For some reason, after having a nice poop, your pooch’s first instinct might be to run around as if in celebration.

Be sure they don’t run directly into their fresh business, or else a real mess will be on your hands.

5. They’re Following Their Daily Cycle 

You might notice that your dog gets the zoomies at specific points in the day. This might be based on the built-in biological rhythm that your dog experiences. They might get sudden bursts of energy in the early morning and later on in the evening, usually accompanied by dinner.

6. They’re Trying To Relieve Pain

The last reason that your dog might be experiencing zoomies could potentially be a cause for concern. Some dogs will experience zoomies after feeling a sharp pain, specifically in their legs or behind. Dogs with arthritis or flea bites might feel pain and instinctively start moving quickly.

If your dog has zoomies accompanied by other issues like limping, itching, whining, or extensive licking in one area, there might be something wrong. Reach out to your veterinarian if this seems to be an issue.

Zoom Over to AskVet for Virtual Help

No question is a bad question, but sometimes they can feel a bit silly. Like, “Why do dogs get zoomies?” The answer might seem obvious, but often there is more to it than you might be aware of!

When you sign-up for a virtual session with AskVet, you gain access to chat services available 24/7. With AskVet’s Certified Pet Lifestyle CoachesTM (CPLC), you can ask a dog expert any question you have. Not only that, but your CPLC can come up with a 360-degree lifestyle plan that encompasses nutrition, behavioral, and dog training resources.

Having a pet can be a lot of work, but with AskVet, you can join a community of other pet parents who just want the best for their animal friends. And we are sure you’ll be able to share zoomies stories.

Sources:

What Are Zoomies? | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

Stress-Related Behaviors in Companion Dogs Exposed to Common Household Noises, and Owners’ Interpretations of Their Dogs’ Behaviors | Frontiers

Daily Rhythms of Serum Lipids in Dogs: Influences of Lighting and Fasting Cycles | NCBI

Any dog is capable of letting out a random howl every here and there, and some dogs like to howl whenever they are given a chance to. Howling is a behavior that comes naturally to all dog breeds, and they utilize their voices for a few reasons. When you learn more about your dog as you grow together, you will come to figure out their unique habits — howling might be one of them.

When your dog is howling, your first instinct is going to be to figure out why. There could be a few different reasons for this, and with some deductive reasoning, you’re likely to figure out the culprit.

To learn more about why dogs howl and what their howling means, keep reading!

Dog Vocalization 101 What Dog Owners Need To Know

According to animal behaviorists, dogs can’t communicate with their humans in one specific way, and vice versa. For your dog to get their point across, they are going to use their voice.

Your dog might howl, whine, bark, bay, or growl to let you know how they feel about a certain situation. Each form of communication listed above may have been passed down to your pooch from their wolf and coyote ancestors.

A dog howling is often to alert the people or other animals around them of their presence, for attention-seeking, or to alert them to some kind of danger. Another reason your dog might be howling is that they are experiencing pain. If this might be the case, contact your dog’s veterinarian immediately.

Dogs are known to be pack members, not lone wolves, and it’s likely that they are using their instincts to try to communicate, even if they are not sure who is on the receiving end.

What Is Your Dog Trying To Say When Howling?

Your dog might just howl for the fun of it, especially if they are a basset hound, Alaskan malamute, or similar breed. If this is the case, you probably have given up on trying to figure out why your dog howls. They simply do because it’s in their blood (they might also be a husky or beagle).

If your dog howls randomly, there might be more intention behind it. For this reason, getting to the bottom of it and distinguishing howls, barks, and bays from each other can help us to understand our dogs better.

Responding to the Environment

Sometimes something in your surrounding environment will set off your dog and result in them howling. A loud or high-pitched sound, like a siren wailing or the backfiring of a car, another dog howling in the neighborhood, musical instruments, or loud noises on the TV might trigger a reaction from your dog. High-pitched noises are known as one of the key reasons dogs howl.

In this case, the howling is in response to something that’s off-putting to your dog. You will likely recognize the correlation because you will hear the sound they are reacting to.

If your dog is howling consistently based on a reaction, you might want to work on desensitizing them to these noises to avoid constant howling. Your dog is likely howling because they’re startled by stimuli and confused as to where the sound is coming from. Be patient and work to teach them that what they are reacting to is not a threat.

Needing Attention

Dogs will howl when they are looking for attention from their humans. They might learn that when they howl, you come to their attention and give them what they want — whether that be pets, a dog treat, or an action like going outside.

While we do want our dogs to alert us if they need something, like going out for the bathroom, excessive howling can be disruptive. When it’s not directed towards anything other than needing attention, it is a behavioral issue that should be corrected.

Rewarding a dog when they are quiet and ignoring them when they are howling at you for attention is the first step in changing their howling behaviors.

Alerting to Danger

Another reason for your dog to howl is if they feel like they are in danger due to potential predators or other threats. They might feel the need to alert you and others around them of the potential threat. This type of howling also makes their presence known to that specific danger to hopefully ward them off.

Dogs might howl if someone is approaching them who the dog is scared of. They might howl if someone tries to get into your house to tell them to back off. Many people and other animals will view a dog that is loud and rambunctious as a potential threat and will opt to stay away.

In these cases, it’s never a bad thing to have a dog who is howling by your side. It’s for this reason that teaching your dog when it’s appropriate to bark is so important.

Separation Anxiety

Many domestic dogs that come from rescues, have experienced trauma, or have severe attachments to their parents can suffer from separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is when a dog is left for time alone in the home or without their owner, and the result is acting out. Dogs might pair the howling with scratching, whining, or pacing and cause damage to objects around them.

Some dogs are not used to time spent without their humans, so when they are left alone for any amount of time, it can feel like an eternity. Medication can help this issue, but training and building up confidence in your dog will be key in teaching them how to manage their bark.

You may not be aware of this if you leave your dog when it’s happening, so talking to neighbors or even setting up a camera to see what your pet does when you’re gone might give you some better insight.

Medical Issues

The last thing that you want your dog to be howling because of is a medical issue. If your dog is not a howler, then their howling might signal that something is wrong with them physically. They could be hurt and trying to signal to their human that they are experiencing pain.

Keep note of your dog’s behaviors so that you can easily point out when something is off. If howling is odd for your dog and they have been doing it more than usual, you can reach out to your vet and see what your options are.

Hopefully, this is not the case, but if it is, you will want to take your dog to the emergency veterinarian immediately.

AskVet Has Answers for You!

When you can’t get to the bottom of your dog’s behaviors, AskVet is there to give you some answers. Sign-up for a virtual session and gain access to our Certified Pet Lifestyle CoachesTM (CPLC) around the clock to answer any question you may have whenever you have it.

You know the feeling of being a crazy dog parent? And wondering if you’re the only person who has this many questions and concerns about your (probably very healthy) dog? You can now feel that way but surrounded by like-minded pet parents with AskVet’s Clubhouse.

The AskVet Clubhouse is a simple (and fun) way to gain access to a community of pet parents who want a space to learn more about their pets and hear from other people who struggle with the same concerns. We are sure you’ll find other howling dog parents who are looking for solutions to their very loud (but adorable) problems.

Sources:

Communication in Dogs | NCBI

Canine Separation Anxiety: Strategies For Treatment And Management | NCBI

Howling | ASPCA

It’s one of the trademark signs of canine affection: Big, slobbery kisses. Whether you’re a dog owner yourself or a dog lover, you likely know the experience of going up to say hello to a furry companion and being greeted by enthusiastic licking. But why is that? What makes dogs lick their human family members so much?

Keep reading for this and more questions about our furry companions decoded:

Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much?

Dogs are known for their affectionate behavior: Helicopter tails, jumping on us to say hello, and licking are some of the many ways they show their love. Licking behavior might be their favorite, though. From giving us a slobbery kiss on the cheek to frantically licking our faces when we come home, it’s clear that dogs love to lick.

But why do they do it?

Communication

Licking is a behavior inherited from wild dogs. Adult dogs and puppies lick for many different reasons, including showing affection and for attention-seeking purposes. It could also be a sign of submission or to show their respect. However, the overarching reason dogs lick is to communicate.

Adoration

When dogs lick, it often conveys a message to other dogs or to humans. For example, a mother dog will lick her puppies to both clean them and show her affection. Similarly, a dog may lick its owner as a way of saying hello, as a sign of affection, or to signal that it’s time for dinner.

Exploration

But dogs don’t just lick other dogs and humans. They also lick objects, such as toys or furniture. There are many reasons for this; one thought is that it’s a way for dogs to learn more about the world around them. By licking an object, a dog can get a sense of its texture, taste, and even its scent.

Relaxation

Licking can be a self-soothing behavior for dogs that releases endorphins. Just like humans, dogs can get stressed or have separation anxiety, and licking can be a way for them to calm themselves down.

For example, if a dog is feeling anxious, it may lick its paws or lick the air to relieve the anxiety. This type of licking often occurs when their owner leaves for extended periods of time (separation anxiety) or when exposed to new environments. (Licking paws might also be a symptom of allergies which will require a vet visit.)

When To Talk to a Vet

Not all licking is normal or healthy. Excessive licking, or licking that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, can be a sign of a health problem. If your dog is licking excessively, talk to your DVM to determine the underlying cause and to get appropriate treatment.

How Can I Tell If My Dog’s Licking Is Normal Or Not?

If you’re concerned about your dog’s licking behavior, pay attention to the context clues that might help you figure out why this dog behavior is occurring. For instance, are they licking primarily as a greeting to other dogs, their pet parents, and other people?

In this case, it’s most likely a standard sign of affection. Are they fond of licking your exposed skin, such as on your legs and arms? Human skin is slightly salty, so perhaps your pet is simply enjoying the taste of extra salt.

Take note of when and where your dog is excessively licking and similar behavioral issues, and use context clues to determine whether their behavior is normal or cause for concern. In the case of the latter, definitely bring up the issue to your vet or an animal behaviorist. They’ll be able to take a look at your pup and figure out what’s going on.

Sometimes, licking might become a social issue for your dog — after all, not everyone enjoys being covered in doggy slobber. In that case, reach out to dog trainers or behaviorists. With some treats, tips, and positive reinforcement, qualified experts can help guide your family in the right direction.

Caring for an Anxious Dog

If you think separation anxiety or stress is a possible reason for your dog’s excessive licking, there are a few things you can do to help. Dogs can become anxious in new or unfamiliar environments; they need a place where they can feel safe and secure. This could be a crate, a bed, or a quiet room where they can retreat to when they’re feeling overwhelmed. Creating a safe environment that your dog has access to is step one for building a sense of safety and security.

If your dog is anxious around loud noises or new people, perhaps try practicing desensitization to help them slowly overcome this fear. With this, positive reinforcement is critical and expert advice is usually recommended.

Gradually expose them to their triggers in a slow and safe way, such as by having one new person over at a time and rewarding them with praise and treats throughout the whole encounter. This can slowly cause them to associate new people (or any other trigger) with positive experiences, such as treats.

Interpreting Your Dog’s Body Language

Licking behavior can provide insight into your dog’s mood and state of mind. But other body language signs can help you understand how your doggy is feeling, too.

Understanding your dog’s body language is an integral part of being a responsible pet owner. There are many ways that dogs communicate through body language.

The way they move and position themselves, the way they wag their tails, and even the way they make eye contact can provide clues to what they’re thinking. By learning to interpret your dog’s body language, you can better understand and address their needs, which is step number one in having a happy and healthy pet.

Posture

One of the things to look for when interpreting your dog’s body language is posture. Sometimes their posture is clear:

A confident dog will stand tall with their tail held high, ears perked up, and eyes focused. A scared or anxious dog may crouch low to the ground with their tail tucked between their legs, ears flattened against the head, and their eyes wide and fearful.

Other times, the tells in posture may be more subtle and less obvious. Every dog is unique. By keeping an eye on your dog’s moods and postures in various environments, you can start to get a feel for your puppy’s unique body language and how to interpret it.

Tail Movement

Another critical aspect of your dog’s body language is the tail. In fact, your dog’s tail might be the fastest giveaway to what they’re thinking and feeling at any given time.

A wagging tail is often thought to be a sign of happiness, but it may be a bit more complicated than that. A wagging tail can indicate a range of emotions, from excitement and happiness to fear and aggression. Interpreting your dog’s tail position requires you to look at the whole picture.

For example, a happy dog may wag their tail vigorously with their whole body, while a fearful dog may wag their tail slowly and tentatively. Pay attention to your pup, and you’ll soon learn what their different tail movements and positions may mean. Your dog’s way of telling you something may not be what you expect.

Ears and Eyes

In addition to posture and tail wagging, you can learn a lot about a dog’s emotional state by watching their ears and eyes. A relaxed dog will have their ears perked up and their eyes soft and gentle. A tense or aggressive dog may have their ears flattened against their head, and their eyes narrowed.

By paying attention to your dog’s ears and eyes, you can get a sense of how they’re feeling and whether they’re likely to be friendly or aggressive.

It’s important to remember that you can’t always rely on body language to interpret your dog’s emotions. Some dogs may have atypical body language due to a medical condition or past trauma, while others may be more tricky to read due to their individual personality.

Spend time with them, observe them closely, and learn what their unique signals mean. Dogs are incredibly smart, and throughout this process, they will likely learn how to better communicate their needs with you and their other pack members, too. (They’re called man’s best friend for a reason!)

Learning To Speak a New Tongue? The AskVet Experts Can Help.

Whether we’re talking about licking, tail-wagging, or any other aspect of your dog’s body language, with some time and practice, you’ll soon be able to understand your dog like a pro. Every dog is different, and the best thing you can do to understand what your dog is trying to communicate is to pay attention to their specific behaviors and needs.

However, dogs and people don’t share much of a common language. Besides some commands and words like “treat,” your pets and you will need a translating dictionary from time to time.

The Certified Pet Lifestyle Coaches™ at AskVet can be that dictionary. After joining AskVet, sign up for a virtual appointment with a CPLC™ who can guide you through your animal family members’ behaviors and quirks. Cats, fish, reptiles, dogs, and more — we can work with them all!

Sources:

Separation Anxiety | ASPCA

Too Much Licking | Academy Animal Hospital

Why Is My Dog Licking Me? Tips To Identify And Alleviate Problem Licking | American Kennel Club (AKC)

Why Do Dogs Like to Lick? | Rocklin Park Veterinary Hospital

Are Allergies Making Your Dog Lick Their Paws? | Animal Allergy and Ear Clinic

Does your dog like to make sure everyone around them knows they are there with loud, incessant barking? How about when the doorbell rings on the TV or whenever someone comes to your actual door? As much as you love your dog, this behavior is not always wanted.

[To all dogs: we get it. A stranger is a stranger is a stranger. But not every stranger is an enemy!]

Training dogs about the appropriate times to bark will save your eardrums a whole lot of pain and will help you and your home seem more inviting. Whether your dog is in their golden years or in puppyhood with bundles of energy, you can guide their behavior in a variety of situations.

Keep reading to learn more about why dogs bark.

Why Do Dogs Bark? The Different Types of Barking

Barking is a natural behavior that all dogs do — as dog parents everywhere know. When, where, and directed at who is a different question. Regardless, your dog might be one to utilize their voice more than others. You know your dog best, so you will likely be able to pick up on what kind of barking your dog is doing.

There are many types of barking: alert/alarm barking, demand barking, frustration barking, boredom barking, stress barking, play barking, and greeting barking. Additionally, dogs can bark out of a lack of socialization.

Recognizing what kind of barking your dog is doing could help you to examine the situation and know how best to respond to it.

Alert/Alarm Barking

Does your dog bark from the window or porch whenever a stranger or new dog walks onto their property? Do they tense up, hair raised on their backs, with more stiffness in their body language than you are used to?

This aspect of your dog’s behavior could be due to your dog feeling like they need to protect their territory and make their presence known. They might also be trying to get another dog’s attention.

You don’t want your dog to perceive every person or dog that walks by or comes to your door as a threat — especially if you live in a very social and busy setting or have friends and family who frequently stop by. You don’t want the neighbors to start complaining because your dog is ready to yell at anyone who dares enter their domain.

Having a self-appointed guard dog can have its pros, but only if that is what you are seeking. If you’re reading this, you’re likely not interested in having a guard dog and want to learn how to curb the behavior while also teaching them how to trust.

Excitement

When dogs see other dogs and family members, they might bark out of pure excitement. Many barking dogs are not trying to be threatening or dangerous but instead extremely excited.

Note that not all people or other dogs want to approach a dog who is barking at them, regardless of how friendly the barking is intended to be. Your dog might find they are having trouble making friends when on their morning walks, and barking might be to blame.

Many puppies display this behavior of extreme excitement that they can’t understand how to contain. Puppies learn to communicate through their barks and wines with their siblings and mother.

It’s also a way that they communicate with their new human parents when they first arrive. While it is adorable to hear their tiny baby barks, if you don’t correct the behavior early, you could find it more challenging to do as they form their own barking habits.

Stress Barking

Some dogs might bark out of fear, and there are likely underlying causes for this. Some rescued dogs from not-so-great backgrounds might be more anxious and nervous, becoming scared more quickly when they see strangers or hear loud noises.

Some of this extra fear could be due to separation anxiety or an increased attunement to potential threats. While this bark is unlikely to be aggressive, it could lead to that if a dog feels the need to protect themselves. This kind of bark is more likely to be used to make the dog seem bigger and hope to scare the threat away.

Fear-induced barking can also be a result of a lack of socialization. If you get your dog when they are a puppy, it’s so important to socialize them with a variety of different people and dogs so that they can learn to be unfased in new situations.

New situations can be unsettling for dogs and can therefore lead to barking. So it’s no surprise that a dog that hasn’t been in many social settings would find the existence of other people and dogs startling.

Obedience Training Techniques To Remember

Before we get into some of the methods to stop dog barking, we have a few tips to share:

If you have a puppy, know that starting as early as possible can only benefit you. Regardless of age or background, patience is essential. Our dogs will learn to trust that we won’t put them in dangerous scenarios and will begin to open up.

Redirection Will Be Key 

If you can figure out ways to keep your dog distracted and engrossed in a toy or game, barking out of boredom is unlikely to occur in the first place. They might end up barking at a toy or at you when you come to play, but if they are paying attention to the toy, they aren’t thinking about barking.

Ideally, you want to redirect them from practicing the act of attention-seeking barking or barking out of boredom so that it doesn’t become a habitual thing for them. However, some forms of barking — barking to be let out, for example — can be beneficial. Thus, it’s not recommended to train your dog out of barking in any and all circumstances. Instead, it’s ideal to redirect your dog’s attention away from something that shouldn’t warrant barking.

Remove the Motivation To Bark

Dogs that like to bark at people who walk by from the safety of a window might need to be cut off from window lurking. Closing curtains or making it more difficult for your dog to watch out of the windows eliminates the need for barking. Your dog can’t see the stimulus they are looking for and, therefore, won’t react to it.

After a while, your dog might not consider barking as something they need to do. They might huff and puff occasionally when a stranger approaches. But because they’ve never been allowed to bark non-stop at a person, they won’t think to do it when they make eye contact with a passerby in the future.

Ignore the Barking

This can be tough, especially on days you come home from work and want to relax, but try ignoring the barking. If your dog is staring at you barking, they clearly want your attention, but you shouldn’t reward them for the behavior by giving them what they want.

This goes for crate training too. You don’t need to coddle your dog every time they cry or bark from their crate. Instead, you can work to teach them that being quiet gets rewarded and barking doesn’t — the powers of positive reinforcement.

Give them a treat every time they are quiet in their crate. Ignore them while they bark, and if they quiet down for even a split second, come over and hand them a treat.

Desensitization to Triggers

If there is a specific person, dog, or object that your dog is barking at, you want to desensitize them to it.

Let your dog become accustomed to the trigger on their own terms. At first, the trigger should stay at a far-away distance. When dogs no longer feel threatened, up-close triggers can offer high-value treats. This teaches dogs the lesson that triggers lied to high-value items, and if not, at least they are generally harmless.

Reward them with treats when they don’t bark, and if they do bark, move further away until they stop and reward them again. This may take many days or weeks to accomplish, but baby (or puppy) steps are still steps.

Simple Ways To Teach Your Dog Not To Bark

There are a few different methods that teach your dog how to not bark. These are not something that your dog will master overnight (at least the majority of them won’t), so don’t be discouraged!

1. The Quiet Method

When your dog is barking at the mailman or another dog passing by, interrupt them with a click of your tongue or another similar noise. When they respond to the noise, tell them the command: “Quiet.” Don’t yell at them or even raise your voice a tiny bit. Instead, tell them quietly to be quiet.

Once you’ve done this, reinforce their behavior with a treat. If they remain quiet, you can reinforce with another treat. If they bark, repeat the same action.

Make sure to reward them each time that they are quiet so they begin to see the correlation between being quiet and getting a treat. In order for them to understand that “Quiet” is the command, begin waiting for longer periods of time to reward them once they are quiet. You might start rewarding them immediately after at first, but the verbal cue might not be fully understood yet.

Give them the command. Once they go quiet, wait for five seconds before rewarding, then ten seconds, then 20 seconds. See if they can stay quiet for as long as possible but only reward them when they remain quiet.

2. Distraction Method

If there is a noise or object that your dog is obsessed with or intrigued by, use that to distract your dog when they bark. It should be that the sound or object they see is more interesting to them than a stranger is. Once their attention is on you, you can tell them to sit or lie down and reward them with a treat.

If their eyes begin to wander, keep them preoccupied with the distraction and reward them if they look back at you. If they bark, repeat the same process. This should teach them that barking doesn’t produce a reward but paying attention to their human does.

3. The “Spot” Method 

When new people come into your home, your dog might not know the proper etiquette for greeting behaviors. They might bark because a stranger in their home, or they may bark and jump because they are happy to see someone coming in.

Either way, you don’t want your dog bombarding your guests as soon as they enter. By teaching your dog to go to a specific spot in your house, you can hopefully teach them that when someone comes in, rather than barking, they can be rewarded for calmly waiting.

Start by saying, “Go to your spot,” and tossing a treat wherever that may be. It might be the couch, their dog bed, or settling down next to the living room couch.

Repeat this several times until your dog starts moving to the spot instinctively to receive the treat. Practice doing this from all over your house so that they understand there is a specific place they should be going to each time, and they’ll only get rewarded if they do it right.

4. Divert Attention in Public

Dogs can get really excited, but it’s not always manageable. As your dog grows larger and stronger, the more excitable they get out in public, the more tricky it is to control them.

When your dog notices a stranger or other dog, they may instantly become alert. You will want to turn them away from the person or dog and have them focus on you. As long as your dog doesn’t bark or engage, make sure to give them plenty of well-deserved treats.

Not only will they see that barking is not rewarded, but it also teaches them that when they bark, they don’t get to go say hi to the person they saw. If your dog wants to interact with a human or another dog, they need to do it in a respectful way!

Something Smart To Bark About

Training dogs can sometimes be challenging — which is why experts are here to help.

Sign up for a virtual session with AskVet and gain access to chat with our Certified Pet Lifestyle Coaches (CPLCs), who can help craft a personalized behavioral plan for your pet. Questions may arise at any given time during your training process, and having access to our CPLCs makes getting answers easier. Plus, with your AskVet account, you can chat with a vet 24/7 on the mobile app!

Sources:

How To Get Your Dog To Stop Barking | Humane Society

Decoding Your Dog’s Excessive Barking | Veterinary Medicine at Illinois

Improving Dog Training Methods: Efficacy And Efficiency Of Reward And Mixed Training Methods | NCBI

Helping dog anxiety | The Humane Society of the United States

How to Teach Your Dog to Ring a Bell to Go Outside | AKC

FEARFULNESS AROUND STRANGERS | Richmond SPCA

Your dog could be really big on communication and likes you to know what they think throughout the day! If this is the case, you are quite familiar with your dog’s whine and might even be able to distinguish your dog’s specific whines from each other.

This aspect of your dog’s behavior is a common form of communication. It’s true that a dog’s whine can mean a multitude of things, but they may have different inflections or behaviors associated with specific whines that they use to help get their point across.

Not all whining is negative or something to be concerned about. Your dog might excitedly whine whenever they see their best friend on their daily walk, or they might whine because they are feeling discomfort. Monitoring their other behaviors can help you to determine what your dog’s whine might be about.

If you’re thinking, “Why is my dog whining?” and want to know when to take it seriously, keep reading:

Why Do Dogs Whine?

Puppies and adult dogs whine for a variety of common reasons. Because they can’t communicate with their humans in a normal way, our dogs rely on their body language and their voice to communicate their needs.

While moderate or excessive whining isn’t really a learned behavior, it can be a learned reaction. For many dogs, they learn that when they whine, they are given attention — this is a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “appeasement whining.”

If our pups are bored and in need of some mental stimulation, they might use vocalization. Vocalizing can be a tactic to get their human to pay attention to them and provide them with what they need, whether that be a favorite toy, a potty break, or some extra playtime with you, their pet parent.

Of course, dogs don’t always whine because they want something. If a dog is excited enough, whining might be the way that an excited or anxious dog expresses the anticipation of what’s about to come next!

1. Seeking Attention

According to animal behaviorists, one of the main reasons your dog is whining is because they want your attention. If you have a particularly needy dog, you know what we are talking about! Maybe you are typing away at your computer at home for too long, and your dog is staring at you, whining or whimpering because they want pets and cuddles.

You can tell when a dog is seeking your attention because of other behaviors like swatting with their paws and nuzzling into you. If you aren’t giving them the attention that they want, these behaviors will only progress until they give up and sulk in their beds (probably still whining).

2. Appeasement Behavior 

When a dog is meeting a new dog or person, they might whine as a submissive response. This will usually be accompanied by other submissive behaviors, like ears back, tail tucked, and head down.

It might be mixed with excitement or anxiety, depending on the situation that you are in. If your dog is meeting up with their best friend (human or animal), it might be as a result of their excitement. If your dog is in a new setting, it might be influenced more by anxiety.

3. Anxiety

Dogs can become anxious for a variety of reasons. No two dogs are exactly the same in this regard (or in any category — it’s one of the reasons we love them so much!)

If you are wondering if your dog is whining because of stress, you might want to take note of other anxious behaviors like lip licking, averting their gaze, and yawning.

If your dog is anxious or suffers from separation anxiety, the whining might be involuntary and not something they can stop easily. If your dog is extremely stressed out, they might not be able to control their whining unless the trigger is eliminated.

4. Greeting Behavior

If your dog is a people and dog lover, they might whine when greeting both new and old friends. This is a sign that your dog is extremely excited and truly can’t contain themselves. They will likely be wagging their tail, mouth open, and “smiling.” Some will even jump around or bow as a way to show their friendliness and invite the other dog or human to play!

This behavior is also connected to seeking attention, so while it’s adorable and good to see a happy pup, this might not be the behavior you are looking for.

5. Asking for Something

Whining might also be the way that your dog communicates they are in need or want something. The clock strikes six o’clock, and your dog starts whining for you to feed them. They might need to use the potty and combine whining and running to the back door to let you know.

There could be a toy that has gotten stuck underneath the couch, and your pet needs you to get it for them so to let you know they whine while staring between the sofa and you. Of course, your pet won’t always be able to tell you their exact needs, but as you learn more about your pet’s personality and unique behaviors, it becomes easier to guess what they want!

6. Expressing Pain or Discomfort

The worst-case scenario to explain why your pet is whining is because they are in some sort of pain. If your dog is whining, but it’s not accompanied by any of the above situations, it might be related to pain or an injury.

If you are able to eliminate the reasons above, you might want to consider taking your dog to their veterinarian to do further testing to find the cause.

When To Worry About Dogs Whining

If you think that there could be something wrong with your dog, whether it be anxiety or pain, you should take your pet to their veterinarian. Your pet could be under a lot of stress or discomfort that only you can help to fix. Your dog cannot communicate what their issue is exactly, but their whines are the best way for them to indicate a problem.

Additionally, if the whining is beginning to become disruptive to your daily life, you may want to correct the whining behavior. There are plenty of ways to do this, and it can help your dog’s overall relationship with you and others.

How To Stop Dogs From Whining

Whining can sometimes be annoying, especially when it’s persistent and uncontrollable. Many dogs whine as a reaction when they can’t contain their excitement or needs. While it can be cute, it is not always a desirable behavior.

Depending on what your dog is whining about, there are different ways for you to correct the behavior and teach your dog what the right reaction should be.

• If your dog whines when you don’t give them attention, make it a point to only give attention, pets, or treats when the dog is not whining, jumping, or pawing at you. In other words, don’t give your pet attention if they are making a fuss. You can dramatically turn away from them, fold your arms, or turn your head whenever you make eye contact.
• In turn, make sure you are giving your dog plenty of attention, enrichment, exercise, and treats when they are not whining. This can help reinforce good behavior and teach them that whining for attention doesn’t work.
• With anxiety, it’s a bit harder to train the whining out of your dog. To relieve them of their stress, you need to eliminate the stressor. These stressors can include separation, new people and pets, changes in the home, and differences in routine, etc. If the behavior is severe, your dog may need the help of medication prescribed by their veterinarian.

Dog Whining? It’s Time To Call.

You might be wondering what a specific behavior means when paired with whining, and for every dog, the reasoning for the whine might be different. When you sign up with AskVet, you gain access to Certified Pet Lifestyle Coach™, who can help work on these behaviors with you.

The best way to help your dog correct their whining behavior is to train them out of it and work on it from a young age. It’s easier to train a dog the right way to act the first time around than to correct bad behavior later on (though it is possible!).

Whether you have a new puppy or an older dog, your dog uses whining as a form of communication. Knowing what your dog needs can lessen your dog’s anxiety and have them feel confident and happy with you as their person. Schedule a call with an animal expert today and learn more about your pet and how you can better their life every day!

Sources:

Communication in Dogs | NCBI

Canine Separation Anxiety: Strategies For Treatment And Management | NCBI

Pain and Problem Behavior in Cats and Dogs | NCBI

Is your dog trying to tell you something? Whining and how to make it stop | Bayview Seven Animal Hospital

Why Is My Dog Whining? | AKC