Why Do Dogs Sigh? 6 Explanations
It’s finally the best part of the day: snuggle time with your dog! You each take your spots on the sofa and are ready to turn into couch potatoes! Then, you both let out a sigh. Wait, what? Yes, your dog let out a sigh, too! A thought crosses your mind: why do dogs sigh?
While the answer may seem simple, it could depend on the situation. Are they sighing while laying down? Are they sitting next to you in peace or on the floor with nothing to do? Based on their body language and their environment, you can figure out the reason behind why your dog sighs.
6 Common Reasons Why Dogs Sigh
Why do dogs deep sigh? Is their tail wagging or neutral? Is your dog huffing and sighing? Are they being dramatic or are they trying to tell you something? Discover some common reasons behind this funny behavior.
Reason #1: Happiness
There are a few ways to recognize the triggers for an enthusiastic sigh! It’s reflected in the feeling your dog expresses when you come home from work, when they’re receiving pets, or when you’re telling them what a good boy or girl they are. Other signs your dog’s sigh indicates happiness include soft body language like loose ears, a relaxed or wagging tail, a soft expression in the eyes, or a slightly open mouth.
Reason #2: Relaxation
Like signs of happiness, your dog sighs when they lay down because they’re experiencing that calm feeling—a release of stress. Reasons for a relaxed sigh may include spending time with you (their favorite pet parent!), settling down after a successful play session, or getting a satisfying scratch behind the ears or on the belly! Sighing before sleeping is something dogs and their pet parents both have in common.
Reason #3: Boredom
Has it been a minute since you last played with your pup? Or have you just played with your dog, and they’ve decided they want more? If your pooch is always sighing, they might be letting you know they’re bored. Try entertaining them for longer periods of time with a mentally stimulating treat toy. Treat toys, chew toys, and training your dog with treats are great ways to cure your dog’s boredom in a healthy way.
Reason #4: Anxiety
Do you have an anxious dog? From thunderstorms to fireworks, every dog has their own triggers when it comes to what makes them scared or anxious. Be sure to pay attention to their body language if you think your dog has anxiety. Sighing paired with a tucked tail, ears flat against the head, trembling, or panting are common stress indicators.
Reason #5: Frustration
If your furry friend hasn’t gotten their way, you may find that your dog sighs loudly out of frustration. Maybe they are upset because they want to go outside for a walk when it’s not their usual time or maybe they want more attention. If you sense your dog’s deep sigh is due to frustration, there is usually no major cause for alarm. A brain game can help get their energy out!
🐕 Related: 5 Brain Games for Dogs You Need to Try
Reason #6: Pain
It’s sometimes hard for pet parents to discern when their pups are in pain since dogs cannot speak for themselves. Your dog may sigh loudly because they’re in pain, and they’re letting you know they need attention. If they are limping, lethargic, restless, or show a change in behavior like becoming overly aggressive, contact your vet as soon as possible.
A Sigh of Relief
If you've ever wondered why your dog sighs when they lie down or after playing, you can breathe a sigh of relief: it is usually normal. Surprisingly, dogs and humans often sigh for similar reasons. Next time you see a long breath come from your pooch, put yourself in your dog's place to figure out what they may want or need.
Ready to learn about other common dog behaviors? Explore below:
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