Dogs are known for their loyalty, playfulness, and unconditional love towards their owners. However, just like humans, they also display different behaviors. Submissive behavior in dogs is one of these behaviors that can be observed in certain situations. Understanding the signs of submissive behavior in dogs is crucial for dog owners to ensure their furry friends are happy and healthy.
What Is Submissive Behavior In Dogs?
Submissive behavior in dogs is when they display signals of appeasement or submission, indicating they are not a threat. It is a natural behavior that dogs display to avoid conflict with other dogs or humans. Dogs that display submissive behavior are often seen as friendly, easy-going, and non-threatening.
Submissive behavior in dogs can vary depending on the situation and the dog’s personality. Some dogs may display more submissive behavior than others, while some may not display submissive behavior at all.
Signs Of Submissive Behavior In Dogs
Here are some common signs of submissive behavior in dogs:
1. Tail Tucked Between Legs
A dog that tucks its tail between its legs is displaying a sign of submission. This behavior is often observed when a dog is afraid or feels threatened. It is important to note that some dog breeds have a naturally curled tail, so this behavior may not always be an indication of submissive behavior.
Source: bing.com2. Avoiding Eye Contact
When a dog avoids eye contact, it is a sign of submission. Eye contact can be seen as a challenge or a threat to dogs, and avoiding it is a way of showing respect and submission.
Source: bing.com3. Licking Lips Or Nose
Licking their lips or nose is a way for dogs to calm themselves down and show submission. This behavior is often observed when a dog is nervous, anxious, or stressed.
Source: bing.com4. Rolling Over
A dog that rolls over onto its back is displaying a sign of submission. This behavior is often observed when a dog is playing or wants to be petted. However, it can also be a sign of fear or submissiveness.
Source: bing.com5. Cowering
Cowering is when a dog lowers its body and tries to make itself smaller. This behavior is often observed when a dog is afraid or feels threatened. It is a sign of submission and a way for dogs to show they are not a threat.
Source: bing.com6. Submissive Urination
Submissive urination is when a dog urinates when it is scared or feels threatened. This behavior is often observed in puppies or dogs that have not been properly trained. It is a sign of extreme submission and can be a difficult behavior to correct.
Source: bing.com7. Yawning
Yawning is a way for dogs to communicate their stress levels. When a dog yawns, it can be a sign of anxiety, stress, or submission. It is important to note that dogs also yawn when they are tired, so this behavior should be observed in conjunction with other signs of submissive behavior.
Source: bing.comWhy Do Dogs Display Submissive Behavior?
Dogs display submissive behavior for various reasons, including:
1. Fear
When a dog feels threatened or afraid, it may display submissive behavior to avoid conflict.
2. Lack Of Confidence
Dogs that lack confidence may display submissive behavior as a way of avoiding confrontation.
3. Respect
Dogs that respect their owners or other dogs may display submissive behavior as a sign of respect.
How To Address Submissive Behavior In Dogs?
Addressing submissive behavior in dogs is crucial to ensure their happiness and well-being. Here are some tips to address submissive behavior in dogs:
1. Consistent Training
Consistent training is crucial to address submissive behavior in dogs. Positive reinforcement training can help build a dog’s confidence and reduce submissive behavior.
2. Socialization
Proper socialization is crucial to address submissive behavior in dogs. Exposing dogs to different people and situations can help build their confidence and reduce submissive behavior.
3. Exercise And Play
Regular exercise and play can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs, which can lead to less submissive behavior.
Conclusion
Submissive behavior in dogs is a natural behavior that can be observed in certain situations. Understanding the signs of submissive behavior in dogs is crucial for dog owners to ensure their furry friends are happy and healthy. By addressing submissive behavior through consistent training, socialization, and exercise, dog owners can help build their dog’s confidence and reduce submissive behavior.
