Vet explains the real reason dogs wag their tails - and it doesn't always mean they're happy

 

• Dr Julian Norton, aka the Yorkshire vet, explained why dogs nuzzle their humans

Dogs can display a range of adorable behaviours - from tilting their heads to chasing their tails.

And those who have dogs seem to be increasingly interested in what these different actions mean.

Searches for 'dog communication signals' have surged by 200 per cent in the last three months, according to Pure Pet Food.

Among their most misunderstood behaviours is nuzzling, which is common for canines.

Now Pure Pet Food's resident veterinary expert, Dr Julian Norton aka the Yorkshire vet, has revealed why dogs love to nuzzle people.

He said: 'People sometimes ask why dogs nudge and nuzzle with their noses. 

Part of the reason is that dogs really feel part of the family and part of the tribe, and they're trying to get attention by nuzzling you.'

He described the behaviour as 'quite endearing', and added: 'I think it's a bit like when dogs come and lick us on our face or hands or that sort of thing. 

According to Dr Julian Norton - aka the Yorkshire vet - dogs often nuzzle people as they want to get some attention (stock image)

'They're just really wanting to be part of the family and get some attention.'

However, nuzzling is not the only way dogs try to get attention, according to experts at Pure Pet Food.

They have revealed three ways dogs might be trying to communicate with humans,  and what these behaviours mean.

Tail wagging

Many people assume that a wagging tail always means a happy dog. 

But in reality, a dog's tail is a powerful communication tool that can signal a range of emotions.

Dr Julian Norton described the nuzzling behaviour of dogs as 'quite endearing' (stock image)

Look at the height, speed and stiffness of the wag. 

A high and loose wag often means a dog is pleased to see their human, while a low, tense wag could signal uncertainty or fear.

Learning what a wagging tail really means can help people get a better sense of their dog's mood.

Licking

When dogs lick people, it is often considered to be the animal trying to bond with that person (stock image)

Dogs lick for all kinds of reasons, but it is most commonly a social behaviour. 

In the wild, dogs lick the mouths of other pack members to show submission or affection, and the same instinct applies to humans.

If a dog licks a person's face, hands or even your feet, it may be their way of bonding with that person or checking in to see how they are feeling.

Smiling

People might think their dog is smiling at them  - and they are not imagining it. 

While dogs don't smile in the same way humans do, some do pull their lips back in a way that looks remarkably like a grin.

When this expression is paired with relaxed, playful body language like a wagging tail it means that they are feeling happy and ready to play.

10 signs your dog really loves you - according to a vet

Natasha Watson, a vet at Vetfone, previously revealed several ways in which your dog shows you love, including:

1. Wagging their tail

While dogs use their tail to communicate many different emotions, a slightly upright side-to-side slow wag may indicate happiness and contentment, according to Natasha. 

If your dog greets you when you walk in the room with this kind of happy tail wag, that's a clear sign that they love you and are happy to see you.

And if you get a 'helicopter' tail - where a dog's tail moves in a rapid, circular motion - then they are more than a little excited to see you.

2. Eye contact

Dogs that feel trust and affection toward their owners often make prolonged eye contact. 

Research has found that when a dog looks at you, it can trigger the release of oxytocin, the 'love hormone,' in both the dog and the owner. So, when your dog looks at you with gentle eyes, it's a clear sign of their love.

3. They present you with toys

According to research carried out by Tesco Insurance, 31 per cent of dog owners report that their pup shares their toys with them. 

Most dogs are good judges of character so if your furry companion brings you a toy to play with, then it is a sign that you have reached an unconditional level of trust and love with them.

4. Being close

Dogs will cuddle in and lean on people they feel comfortable with.  

In fact, 39 per cent of dog owners report that their pup will shower them with cuddles and kisses - and this rises to 41 per cent when owners are upset. 

This is because cuddles bring back feelings of maternal closeness and release pheromones that soothe the dog. 

5. They follow you

If your dog follows you from room to room, they're likely showing affection. 

This behaviour signifies that they want to be near you and, since dogs are naturally pack animals, it's a sign of attachment or loyalty. Whilst this can be cute, your dog should still be able to have some alone time.

6. Protectiveness

Dogs are naturally protective of those they love.  Natasha explains that if your dog shows signs of guarding you or their home, it can be a sign of affection. They want to keep you safe and are demonstrating loyalty and love.

7. 'Talking' to you

Dogs communicate with their owners in various ways, and vocalisations are one of them, according to vet Natasha Watson. 

While some breeds are more vocal than others, many dogs will 'talk' to their owners with barks or whines to get attention or express emotions. 

If your dog barks or makes sounds when they see you or during moments of excitement, it could be a sign of love and attachment.

8. Jumping up

While jumping up can sometimes be seen as a sign of excitement or a way to get attention, it's also a common way dogs show affection. 

When your dog jumps on you, they may simply be expressing their joy at seeing you or seeking closeness. 

Similarly, almost half (45 per cent) of dog owners say their furry companion sits on them when they want attention.

9. Recall and training

Natasha says that dogs that respond well to recall and commands are often eager to please their owners.  Their willingness to obey shows trust and a desire to make you happy. 

Training strengthens your bond as dogs enjoy the positive reinforcement and the satisfaction of making you proud. 

Your dog wants to please you as well as receive their reward so next time they come back when called, give them an extra special ear rub.

10. Mirroring your emotions 

Dogs are remarkably empathetic creatures. If your dog mirrors your emotions, it's a sign they love you. 

Natasha points out that they may sense when you're upset or happy and adjust their behaviour accordingly. 

For instance, if you're feeling down, your dog might come and sit by you or offer comfort.

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