Why My Dog Yawns a Lot
Some people believe that dogs yawn in order to cool down their brains. Others think that they are tired and yawning helps them to stay awake. There are many reasons why dogs yawn, but there is no definitive answer.
Why is my dog yawning so much?
Stress. Most trainers and behaviorists will advise owners to watch out for signs of stress in their dogs, and one of these signs is often excessive yawning. This is accurate information, as dogs do seem to yawn when they are feeling anxious.[1]
Should I be worried if my dog yawns a lot?
Yawning is perfectly normal in dogs. In fact, it is normal behavior in most vertebrates, including primates, horses, penguins, fish, cats, and even snakes, among many others. You’ve no doubt seen your dog settle in for a nap with a big, satisfying yawn just before they rest their head and drift off to sleep.[2]
Why does my dog yawn so much around me?
A study outlined in the New York Times found that dogs can “catch” yawns from humans, which researchers believe may be a sign of bonding between canines and people. So, if you notice your dog yawning, it might just be because they’re taking a cue from you.[3]
Do dogs yawn when happy?
They Are Excited Dogs will sometimes yawn when they are overly excited or happy. Similar to yawning in stressful situations, your pup may also yawn when they are excited.[4]
What are signs that a dog is stressed?
Ears back, lip-licking (unrelated to expectation of food) Pausing with ears back, tail lowered, paw lifted. Leaning back with tail tucked, ears back. Lowered body posture, tail tucked.[5]
Why does my dog stretch and yawn so much?
Why does my dog keep yawning and stretching? It’s believed that dogs yawn and stretch for similar reasons as we humans do! Humans and hounds alike will most often yawn and stretch after waking up or after a rest. It’s a sign of the body shifting from a relaxed state to an awake and alert one.[6]
Why do dogs yawn when you kiss them?
Why Do Some Dogs Yawn or Sneeze When You Kiss Them? You may have noticed your dog yawning when you kiss him, but it’s probably not because he’s sleepy. “Yawning also serves as an appeasement signal.[7]
How do dogs say sorry?
Dogs say sorry by expressing physical signs like the tail-between-the-legs pose, dropped ears, wide eyes, reduce panting, rubbing their face against the paw or wagging the tail. Usually, it’s the dog’s way to accept that they made a mistake and it is a submissione expression rather than saying sorry.[8]
Why does my dog lick me then yawn?
This type of lickings means: ‘be kind to me, I mean you no harm!’ Dogs sometimes also lick their own lips. Often this is accompanied by other calming signals such as yawning. This means: ‘I’m feeling some stress coming up and I want to ask you to leave me in peace’.[9]
Do dogs know when they are loved?
According to Dr. Brian Hare, a canine cognition specialist, our dogs do know we love them. Dogs and humans have the ability to form a special neural connection. This connection is the same human oxytocin bonding pathway used by parents and babies.[10]
How do I know my dog is depressed?
The symptoms of depression in dogs are similar to those experienced by people. Common symptoms include low activity levels, a loss in interest in the things they once enjoyed, and a change in eating and/or sleeping habits. Some dogs may also show signs of aggression, including uncharacteristic howling or whining.[11]
What are the warning signs your dog is crying for help?
Show signs of agitation. Cry out, yelp or growl. Be sensitive to touch or resent normal handling. Become grumpy and snap at you. Be quiet, less active, or hide. Limp or be reluctant to walk. Become depressed and stop eating. Have rapid, shallow breathing and an increased heart rate.[12]
