Dogs may be man’s best friend, but sometimes they do things that seem so weird we may wonder why the relationship works. From incessant licking to just plain staring at you until you’re uncomfortable, today LazyPaw Animal Hospitals is taking a closer look at some common canine behaviors and what reasons your pup may have for repeating them again and again.
Licking—and licking and licking and licking
Mmmm… Slobber. There’s nothing quite like waking up to a greeting from an enthusiastic pup who wants nothing more than to display their boundless love by coating you in slime. Dog licks are a way of showing affection, a habit likely learned when mothers groom and socialize their litters. Some veterinarians also think dogs use licking as a sensory tool similar to touch. Whatever the reason, consider them kisses!
Tail chasing
Dogs can be pretty funny when they chase their tails. Pups attempt to catch the uncatchable when they have extra energy that needs to find a way out. It can be cute from time to time, but if your dog chases her tail constantly, it may be a sign of a larger issue that needs to be checked out. Constant tail chasing could indicate dermatitis due to a flea allergy or anal gland problems (which you can sometimes take care of at home—it’s not that bad, I promise!). She may even have emotional trouble and is chasing her tail to soothe herself. If chasing persists despite efforts to distract the dog, make an appointment with your local animal hospital to get Fido checked out.
Staring at you
LazyPaw Animal Hospitals’ favorite talking seagull, Scuttle from Disney’s Little Mermaid, once said, “The snarfblatt dates back to pre-hysterical times when humans would sit around and stare at each other all day.” Though humans in polite society may have evolved out of the habit of staring at each other, dogs don’t mind gazing at you one bit. Why? Your dog is probably hoping you’ll give her something or do something for her. Whether it’s a treat, a shower of affection, or the need to go outside, your dog wants something. However, since dogs may consider direct eye contact a threat, make sure Fido isn’t showing signs of fear or aggression before you stare back.