Why is My Dog Doing That? Dog Behaviors Explained
While they’re not as mysterious as cats, dogs definitely have their peculiarities and unexplainable dog behaviors. It’s something we see all the time at our Waltham MA dog daycare center.
Here are Some Common Dog Behaviors Explained
In this blog post, we’ll try to answer some common questions about a few unexplainable dog behaviors.
1 – Why does my dog like sticking her head out the car window?
Aside from just being fun, having their head out the window allows your dog to bask in the sights and smells of a host of new environments. After a day indoors, they’re experiencing something new (or at least new to them).
And remember that your dog has an incredibly powerful nose, thousands upon thousands more times sophisticated than what we’re capable of. Sticking their heads out the window lets them sample countless smells all at once.
2 – Why does my dog get so excited by sticks?
One of the funniest/strangest/cutest things we can picture is a small dog walking around, proudly holding a big stick in its mouth.
While dogs like to chew a lot of things, sticks tend to be a favorite, possibly because they look like bones (even if they don’t taste like them). It’s worth noting that if your dog transitions from just chewing sticks to actively eating them, it could be a cause for concern, indicating digestive issues or dental troubles. Consult your vet if you see this behavior.
3 – Why does my dog seem so happy after he does his business?
You take your dog out, he poops, and it seems like the greatest thing ever. All of the sudden, he’s running around the yard like a new puppy.
There are a few reasons for this behavior, including relief at finally being able to “go” after holding it in. But if your dog has gotten used to praise or a reward for pooping in the proper place — i.e. not in the house — he might be excited because he’s expecting a treat.
4 – Why Do Dogs Like Tennis Balls?
There are countless chewy dog toys on the market, but for some reason, the thing a lot of dogs want to play with more than anything else was something designed for people: the tennis ball.
Why do dogs like tennis balls so much? Because even though they’re domesticated, they’ve still got the hunting instinct of their wild ancestors. Chasing a tennis ball around and catching it replicates the feeling of going after, say, a wild rabbit.
5 – Why Will My Dog Sometimes Sleep on His Back?
If you see your dog sleeping happily on their back, that’s a sign that they feel safe and comfortable in their environment.
Again, this goes back to their ancestors. Dogs in the wild had to remain alert for predators, which meant sleeping on their stomachs to guard against attack and to be able to stand up quickly in dangerous situations. If your dog sleeps belly-up, that shows he feels secure around you and in your home.
Dog Behavior Training in Waltham, MA
Not all dog behaviors are cute and charming. If your four-legged friend has some habits you wish she didn’t, The Dog Retreat and Spa can help.
Our Dog Daycare Center in Waltham MA Will Help Your Dog Be More Responsible
Dog training is one of the many services we offer at our Waltham MA doggy daycare. From puppy training to agility classes to Canine Good Citizenship courses, our experts can help you and your dog strengthen your bond for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our Waltham MA dog daycare.