Having a dog comes with countless rewards. These furry companions provide unwavering love, loyalty, emotional support, and endless cuddles, especially when you’re feeling low. While people may leave, dogs remain by your side for their entire lives. With over 450 million pet dogs worldwide, their popularity in households is undeniable.
Being a dog owner requires patience, time, and understanding. Since dogs cannot communicate verbally, misunderstandings between humans and their canine companions are common and can sometimes lead to frustration for both.
Fortunately, there are many ways to enhance communication and strengthen your bond with your dog. Below are 41 tips to help you better understand and interact with your furry friend.
#1 Not giving treats at the right time
Giving your dog treats is more nuanced than it appears. Experts suggest treats should only be given when your dog is calm, preferably while sitting or lying down quietly.
Avoid giving treats during meals as they shouldn’t replace a nutritious diet. Timing is key—don’t offer them too soon or too late. A few minutes after a meal is ideal for a tasty reward.
#2 Leaving your dogs for a bit
Leaving your dog at home while heading to work, school, or on trips is often unavoidable. However, dogs don’t understand these obligations and may feel abandoned when left alone.
Unlike humans, dogs lack a sense of time, making even short absences feel lengthy. Understanding this can help you take steps to ease their loneliness.
#3 The low growl
Dogs are affectionate and loyal, but they can also be territorial, especially over their favorite people. A low growl is not necessarily a precursor to a bite—it’s often a warning signal.
When your dog growls softly, it’s likely expressing discomfort or unwillingness to share toys, food, or even attention. Respect this cue and step away calmly.
#4 The meaning of howling
Howling is a natural behavior for dogs, often used to announce their presence, attract attention, or communicate with others.
It doesn’t always indicate something ominous. Sometimes, it’s triggered by irritation, like the smell of citrus fruits. Be prepared to investigate the cause when your dog howls unexpectedly.
#5 Sleeping on the stomach
Dogs adopt various sleeping positions, each revealing something about their comfort or environment. The tummy-sleeping position, similar to the lion’s pose, is often chosen to cool off.
Veterinarians note that while this position helps with temperature regulation, it may not provide the deepest rest.
#6 The right amount of exercise
Like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy. The recommended duration varies from 30 minutes to 2 hours daily, depending on the breed and age.
Quality matters as much as quantity. Simple activities like daily walks can help your dog release energy and strengthen your bond.
#7 Side-sleeping pooches
When dogs sleep on their side, it’s usually a sign they feel safe and relaxed. This common position indicates trust and contentment.
In this posture, their vital organs are exposed, further emphasizing their sense of security in their environment.
#8 Rules that can be bent or broken
Dogs thrive on consistency. Setting and sticking to rules helps establish boundaries and ensures they don’t become confused or stressed.
Avoid letting them break rules one day and enforcing them the next, as this inconsistency can lead to misbehavior.
#9 Knowing they bark
Not all barks signal distress or threats. Pay close attention to the pitch and pattern of your dog’s bark to understand its mood.
A gradually rising bark often means excitement and a desire to play. A higher-pitched bark indicates happiness and enthusiasm.
#10 Understanding puppy eyes
Puppy eyes are one of the most endearing expressions dogs make, conveying love and trust toward their owners.
When your dog looks at you this way, it’s their way of showing affection and seeking your attention.
#11 Chasing tails
Tail-chasing is a common behavior in younger dogs, who may not realize the tail is part of their body.
However, for older dogs, it could indicate boredom or pent-up energy. Providing physical activity and mental stimulation can help prevent this habit.
#12 Changing your smell often
Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell, which is far superior to that of humans.
Frequent changes in your scent, such as wearing new perfumes, can confuse them. Stick to familiar scents to maintain their sense of security.
#13 Allowing your dog to nip your hand
While playful nipping may seem harmless, it can lead to confusion for dogs about boundaries.
Dogs may not distinguish between nipping and biting, which could become problematic, especially around children. Teaching them early to avoid this behavior is crucial.
#14 Sleeping back-to-back with other dogs
Another fascinating canine sleeping position to observe is the back-to-back style. Similar to the cuddler position, the difference here is that your dog chooses to snuggle up back-to-back with another dog rather than a human.
This posture demonstrates trust and affection between the dogs. It’s a sign they feel safe and comfortable with each other. Isn’t that simply heartwarming?
#15 The proper way to deal with stressful situations
Stress doesn’t just affect humans; it impacts pets too. Dogs may exhibit stress through whining, barking, pacing, shaking, panting, shedding, or even changes in their body posture. Common triggers for stress in dogs include loud noises, such as fireworks.
It’s crucial for pet owners to manage their dog’s stress correctly. Avoid whispering comforting phrases, as this can inadvertently reinforce fear and encourage unwanted behaviors.
#16 Being too handsy for comfort
Overextending your hands in front of a dog’s face can confuse or alarm them, potentially leading to problems. While people often extend their hand for a dog to sniff, some dogs may interpret this gesture negatively.
This misunderstanding could result in a defensive reaction, such as biting. Always be cautious with your hand placement around dogs, remembering their instincts and boundaries.
#17 Sleeping with their legs spread
Dogs have some of the most endearing and puzzling sleeping positions. One such position is lying with their legs sprawled open, which might seem odd to humans.
This position signifies trust and relaxation. A dog that sleeps like this feels safe and comfortable in its surroundings, as it’s willing to be in a vulnerable state.
#18 Not letting things go
As a dog owner, it’s important to forgive and move on from your pet’s occasional misbehavior. While it’s natural to feel upset for a while, holding onto grudges only confuses your furry friend.
Dogs don’t dwell on past actions, and neither should you. Letting go fosters a positive and trusting relationship with your pet.
#19 Making sense of your dog’s high ears
When a dog’s ears perk up, it usually means something has caught their attention. If the ears are paired with a relaxed tail and open mouth, it indicates curiosity rather than caution.
An open mouth is a sign of relaxation, so there’s no need to worry if you observe all these cues together.
#20 Choosing the right name
Naming your dog is a thoughtful process that requires consideration. Avoid names that sound similar to commands like “no,” “heel,” or “sit,” as these can confuse your dog.
Opt for a simple name with two syllables ending in a vowel, as this tends to be easier for dogs to recognize and respond to.
#21 Dealing with dogs other than yours
Not all dogs are trained or socialized the same way, so it’s important to approach unfamiliar dogs with caution. What works with your dog may not work with others.
Different hand signals or gestures might carry varied meanings for different dogs, so proceed carefully when interacting with a strange dog.
#22 The language of gift giving
Dogs have their own unique way of showing affection, and gift-giving is one such method. They may bring you items from the yard, like sticks or even less pleasant surprises.
While their gifts may not be fancy, they carry heartfelt intentions.
#23 The squint of love
A dog’s squinting is not always due to discomfort. If your dog is relaxed and squinting while looking at you, it’s expressing affection.
As long as there are no signs of discomfort, such as pawing at the eyes, you can enjoy this sweet display of love.
#24 The fox sleeping position
When a dog curls up tightly, resembling a fox, it’s trying to conserve heat while protecting its vital organs. This position is common when they feel a bit chilly.
Consider providing your dog with a cozy blanket or adjusting the room temperature to keep them comfortable.
#25 The act of snarling
Snarling, characterized by a raised lip and bared teeth, is a clear signal of aggression. This behavior is not playful and indicates that a dog feels threatened.
If a dog is snarling, it’s best to give them space and avoid provoking them further.
#26 Before hugging your dog
While humans see hugs as affectionate, dogs may not feel the same way. For many dogs, hugs can feel confining or threatening.
Pay attention to your dog’s comfort level before embracing them, as they may simply tolerate hugs rather than enjoy them.
#27 Things to consider before pointing
Pointing can be an effective communication tool, but inconsistent usage may confuse your dog. For instance, don’t use pointing to signal both positive and negative messages.
Be clear and intentional in your gestures to avoid mixed signals or misunderstandings.
#29 Obedience should have its rewards
A key principle for dog owners is to consistently reward their furry friends for good behavior. If your dog doesn’t receive any positive reinforcement for following commands, they might start questioning the value of being obedient.
Rewarding obedience can include treats, petting, toys, or verbal praise. While many dogs favor treats, especially during training, it’s important to figure out what works best for your pet, as every dog is unique. Just remember to reward them regularly!
#30 Not letting them be
Dogs are naturally messy creatures, and trying to make them perfectly tidy isn’t realistic. Pet parents should accept that their pups will sometimes bring in dirt or objects from outside. This behavior is simply part of their nature.
While cleaning up can take time and effort, it’s part of the responsibility of having a dog. If this commitment seems overwhelming, you may want to reconsider owning a pet.
#31 Dogs on alert
When dogs are on alert, their body language gives it away. You’ll notice a tense or forward stance, wide eyes, forward-pointing ears, and a closed, firm mouth. Their tail may stand tall and sometimes wag.
This alert posture often happens when dogs encounter something that grabs their attention, and they’re trying to learn more about it. Their ears move forward to catch specific sounds. As long as they aren’t constantly anxious, there’s no need for concern.
#32 The Superman pose
Have you ever seen a dog lying flat on its belly with its front legs stretched out ahead and its back legs extended behind? This playful position is known as the “Superman pose” or a sploot, often seen in energetic pups.
This posture signals that the dog is tired yet still ready for action. It’s their way of resting while staying prepared for playtime at a moment’s notice.
#33 Communication through butt sniffing
Though it may seem odd to humans, butt sniffing is an essential form of communication for dogs. Even the subtlest change in scent can reveal a lot—where the other dog has been, what they’ve eaten, or what they’ve been doing.
In addition to being informative, this behavior has a calming effect on dogs, reducing stress. It’s akin to humans shaking hands and helps dogs assess compatibility with one another.
#34 Giving doggos equal love
Even though dogs aren’t as emotionally complex as humans, it’s still important to treat them equally. Contrary to popular belief, dogs can sense favoritism, and feeling less loved can lead to depression.
If you own multiple dogs, ensure they all receive equal attention and care. For example, if you give a treat to one dog, make sure the others get one too. Fairness matters in maintaining harmony among your pets.
#35 Training your dog properly
Training a dog requires patience, effort, and consistency—qualities that make this task far from easy. Many pet owners invest in professional trainers to ensure their dogs learn properly.
One crucial tip for effective training is to stick to consistent keywords to avoid confusing your dog. For instance, if you use the word “potty” for bathroom breaks, use it consistently rather than switching terms.
#36 Know when your dog is exhausted
Although dogs are known for their energy, they can still get tired. Recognizing when your pup needs a break is essential for their well-being. Look out for signs like excessive yawning, overexcitement, or simply passing out on their back.
Giving your dog the rest they need ensures they stay happy and healthy, ready to play and interact when they’re recharged.
#37 Dogs seek approval
Dogs naturally seek approval from their owners, whom they view as their leaders. This behavior is normal, but it’s important to set boundaries and keep it in check.
If your dog seeks validation after following a command, reward them with praise or treats. This positive reinforcement strengthens obedience and your bond with your pet.
#38 The floppy tongue
If your dog’s tongue is hanging out, there’s no need to worry—it often means they’re relaxed and comfortable. As long as it doesn’t hang awkwardly to one side, it’s perfectly normal.
However, if your dog experiences jaw trauma or has missing lower canine teeth, consult a vet. For breeds like the Pekingese, a floppy tongue is a common feature.
#39 Eating hacks
Not all dogs eagerly dig into their food. Some may sniff it cautiously, while others might eat quickly and look for more. The latter behavior should be discouraged to prevent bad habits.
Encourage your dog to eat only from their bowl, but be prepared to stay firm if they use their charm to beg for extra treats.
#40 Forcing doggy friends
Not all dogs enjoy socializing with others, and that’s okay. Forcing your dog to interact with other pets can lead to anxiety and stress.
Instead, focus on building your dog’s confidence and rewarding calm behavior. A gradual and patient approach works best for nervous dogs.
#41 Sweet but shy
Does your dog often sleep in the fox position with their tail tucked and paws close? This adorable sleeping style may indicate that your furry friend has a sweet yet shy personality.
While this posture might seem restrictive, it’s a sign of their reserved but affectionate nature, especially around new people. They may be shy, but they love snuggling up with their trusted owners.
#42 Sitting on your lap
If you’re a woman, you might enjoy the feeling of sitting on your partner’s lap—it creates a sense of closeness. Interestingly, this feeling extends to the canine world. While not all dogs exhibit this behavior, many love doing it.
When your dog decides to sit on your lap, it may be their way of seeking your attention or simply wanting to feel closer to you. Dogs often view their owners as members of their pack, seeking warmth and companionship. Additionally, this behavior might stem from a sense of insecurity, with your dog looking to you for comfort and reassurance.
