#dog-behavior

#dog-behavior

Every dog owner will be familiar with the puppy eyes given at mealtimes. Whether it's a juicy piece of steak or a slice of cheese, nothing escapes their nose. But if they lick their lips it could be cause for concern, experts have warned. This behaviour doesn't always mean they're hungry - and it's actually a sign of stress or discomfort.

So I have a little chocolate toy poodle, Buddy. He's 5½ years old. Every evening at exactly 7:30 he starts staring at me, talking to me and notifying me that it is time for his "Greenie." He can hardly contain his excitement until it is placed securely in his mouth and then he is off to enjoy his favorite treat.

To be honest, there are plenty to choose from, but perhaps the most egregious, and the one I settled on in this case, is the erroneous advice that some dog trainers used to give (and sadly, some still do) that you should not let a dog growl at you. Unfortunately, this advice puts people at risk of dog bites and, therefore, dogs at risk of being rehomed or euthanized.

Whether your pup is super expressive or more stoic in their vibes, dogs just never really hide how they're feeling. You always know where you stand with man's best friend and, sometimes, that can be a little alarming. Like when you walk in the door after work and are met by your dog peeking around the corner with their ears back.

Every animal has a right to safety, dignity, and meaningful connections, emphasizing the importance of understanding their experiences and emotions.

As with any change in behavior in a pet, it's always an excellent idea for a check-up at the vet's office to make sure there isn't a physical explanation.

Interesting findings of this study highlight that stress from work can have a significant impact on dogs, as they pick up on their owner's stress levels.