It’s a well-known fact that dogs, similar to many other animals, rely on licking themselves as a natural way to keep their bodies clean. So, if your furry companion gets dirty or messy, it’s highly likely that they will instinctively lick themselves to restore cleanliness. However, it’s essential to be aware that excessive licking can also serve as a sign of pain or discomfort.
If you observe your dog frequently licking their legs and paws, especially in the vicinity of their joints (a common occurrence in dogs with arthritis), it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian. Seeking professional attention ensures that you can address any underlying issues and ensure your beloved companion’s well-being.
Why They Tackle You to the Floor
Does your dog tackle you to the floor right when you walk through the door? This isn’t their way of annoying you or trying to get your attention. They are just so happy to see the person they love the most in the world.
They’ve been waiting around the house all day for you to get back from work and are so happy that you are finally home! Just like humans jump for joy or embrace each other with big hugs, dogs also jump for joy. Jumping in other situations may be a sign of something less joyous, like your dog trying to assert dominance over you.
Flicking Their Ears
Ears are a really important entry into your dog's soul. It can tell you a lot of how they are feeling at any given time of day. When a dog flicks their ears, it means that they’re listening. This is actually what most animals do to listen.
When they hear a sign which isn’t familiar to them and they’re trying to figure out what it is, this is how they react. If you see your dog flicking their ears, let them figure out for a second what it is that they’re listening to. It’s also adorable for you to see your dog being so observant and inquisitive.
Wrinkling Their Muzzle
It goes without saying, but dogs have different ways of showing their varying moods. And it also goes without saying that not all of them are positive. After all, they get angry, sad, and worried like any other mammal. When a dog wrinkles their muzzle, it is most likely a sign of them being aggressive.
If they show their teeth and snarl, you should take this as a sign that you need to remove them from the situation they are in. These kinds of actions can mean that your dog is prepared to attack if they feel it is necessary.
Playing Detective
Have you ever been on a walk with your dog when they suddenly stop dead in their tracks and put their foot up in the air? While you may think that they stepped on something and hurt themselves, this behavior is completely normal. What they are doing is actually trying to figure something out that caught their attention.
It’s a sign that their brains are working. While lifting their paw they might also start to sniff like crazy. So, you can just chalk this behavior up to your dog being Inspector Gadget. They really are the secret service of the animal kingdom.