Dog Behavior Guide

Dogs wag their tails to communicate various emotions and intentions.

Barking is a primary vocal communication method for dogs, used to express various needs and emotions.

Digging is a natural instinct for dogs, often related to hunting, comfort, or entertainment.

Jumping up on people is a common social behavior, especially in puppies and excited dogs.

Licking is a natural dog behavior with various meanings depending on context.

Chewing is a natural and important behavior for dogs of all ages.

The play bow is a distinctive posture where the dog lowers their front end while keeping their rear up.

Resource guarding is when a dog protects food, toys, spaces, or people from others.

Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), commonly called "zoomies," are sudden bursts of energy.

Many dogs circle one or more times before settling down to rest.

Dogs often tilt their heads when listening or trying to understand something.

Dogs yawn in various contexts, not always because they're tired.

Growling is an important warning signal that should never be punished.

Whining is a vocal communication expressing needs, excitement, or distress.

Dogs use their paws to communicate and get attention.

Mounting is normal dog behavior with various non-sexual meanings.

Sniffing is how dogs explore and understand their world.

Panting serves multiple functions and isn't always about temperature.

Door scratching can indicate a need to go out or separation anxiety.

Dogs lean against their owners for various affectionate or anxious reasons.

Spinning behavior can be normal excitement or a compulsive disorder.

Grass eating is common and usually harmless behavior.

Dogs love to roll in foul-smelling substances - a confusing behavior for owners.

Eating feces is a disturbing but relatively common behavior.