The yawning dog

Yawning for dogs is one form of body language.  You might be mistaken for thinking he stayed up watching Tour De France with you, however for him it can be used as a form of communication.

Aswell as when he’s ‘dog tired’ or just waking, a dog uses a yawn as a gesture of appeasement or calming signal.  If he yawns when he feels anxious or threatened it is to convey ‘I’m anxious but don’t want to attack.’  This is a good time to consider he would appreciate some space from whatever is making his nervous.  Especially if it is combined with other signs such as squinted eyes, lowered ears and muscle tension.

Humans can even communicate to a dog and help calm by yawning and looking away.  It’s just saying Ok, all good, nothing to worry about here.’

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)