If you have a dog, you’ve probably wondered: Do Dogs Smile?
Many people have this question, as they usually look at their dogs and notice a smiling expression, especially after a walk or a game.
It’s hard to believe that your puppy isn’t smiling at you, but do dogs smile like we do? Do they really express feelings of happiness in this way?
To find out if dogs smile, read on! We share in this blog some explanations for this behavior.
Do Dogs Smile?
We humans tend to smile automatically when looking at a beautiful dog or when we meet someone we like. Our smile shows satisfaction, happiness, and other positive feelings. But do dogs smile this way? Do dogs also show positive feelings through smiling?
The reality is that there are many debates on this subject. Many experts claim that a dog’s smiling expression means he is panting or tired. Other researchers say that the smile of dogs is a sign of submission, like that of chimpanzees. In addition, there are scholars who interpret the canine smile as a behavior learned from the observation of human behavior.
According to the last explanation, dogs don’t smile instinctively, but their smile works as a learned response. What does that mean? Dogs imitate the human smile to get some response from it, such as a treat or affection.
Why do Dogs Smile?
After a long play session, you are sure to notice your dog’s mouth open and relaxed. This happens because the heat exchange of dogs is done through breathing. They open their mouths to balance their body temperature and release heat.
In that case, you can offer your dog fresh water and take him to a more ventilated place.
If your dog isn’t tired, he may be smiling to make you happy. If you smile at your dog, he will likely smile at you. This is because dogs are always attentive to our body language. It is common for them to copy our smile, especially when we react positively to it.
Read more: Why Do Dogs Howl?
How Do I Know if my Dog is Happy?
It is important that you, the dog owner, are familiar with your puppy’s body language. To know if your dog is really happy, it is necessary to analyze his whole body, not just his facial expression.
To better understand your dog’s body language, be aware of a few body parts, such as:
The Tail
To understand what your dog is feeling at any given moment, it is important to analyze the position and movements of his tail. Some examples include:
– Loose tail and wagging high in the air: Can mean happiness and tranquility.
– Stiff or bent tail: It can be a sign of discomfort.
The Ears
Your dog’s ears can also help you understand if he’s happy, sad, or uncomfortable. Some examples include:
– Neutral ears: Can signal happiness and tranquility.
– Folded ears: Can indicate discomfort.
The Eyes
See if your dog’s eyes are soft or hard. The first option indicates that he is happy. The second may indicate that he is angry.
The Snout
An open, relaxed muzzle can be a sign of happiness, while a tighter mouth can indicate discomfort or anger.
Body posture
When your dog is happy, he shows a more relaxed and calm posture. A tense posture shows that he is probably uncomfortable or agitated.
Dogs are intelligent animals that communicate through their body language. So always remember to analyze all these signs to make sure that your dog is really happy.
Dog Walker Astoria
A great way to contribute to your dog’s well-being and happiness is through socialization. If you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily socialization walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria!
Follow us on Instagram!
