Puzzled by your dog’s behaviour? Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s body language is the first step to managing pet behaviour effectively.
From excessive barking and digging holes to snapping at imaginary flies, our canine companions leave us scratching our heads in confusion. It’s one of the reasons we adore them!
Companionship, affection, and comfort are some of the top reported reasons for owning a pet in Australia. That’s why it’s important to be more than just their advocates—we should strive to be their best friends too.
What is your dog trying to tell you?
“Bad” dog behaviour doesn’t exist because dogs aren’t “bad” by nature. Rather, your dog’s body language is often a reflection of how they’re feeling, both physically and emotionally.
Barking, digging, chasing, growling—these are all considered natural dog body language. However, they can also be signs of stress or health issues.
For example, a potty trained dog that pooped inside could be a sign of dog dehydration. There could be even worse conditions linked to different dog behaviours.
That’s why it’s so important for dog owners to observe their pets rather than simply correcting their behaviour.
For a deeper dive into what drives your dog’s actions and how to meet their needs, check out this video from Laura Vissaritis, a professional pet behaviourist, covering 5 things your dog needs you to know.
3 ways your dog’s body language tell about their health
Here are some common “bad” dog behaviours that could signal an underlying health issue:
1. Peeing in the house
If a dog has been toilet trained but suddenly starts peeing indoors, this could be a cry for help. Reasons could be anxiety or stress, an infection, cognitive decline in older dogs, or even a tumour that requires immediate attention.
Try going back to basics with dog obedience training. Establish a consistent routine for bathroom breaks and reward your dog for going outside. If this issue persists, it’s best to consult a vet.
2. Aggression
If a dog is unusually aggressive without being provoked, it’s often a sign of fear or anxiety. One of the most overlooked reasons for aggression is pain. Dogs in pain are often more reactive and quick to snap.
That’s why it’s crucial to consult a vet and discuss any aggressive behaviour. They may suggest blood or urine tests, or even a neurological exam, to find out what’s triggering the aggression. Routine checkups and timely veterinary care can do wonders for your pet!
3. Begging for food
Dogs who dig through bins, rip open wrappers, or constantly beg for food might not just be hungry—they could be suffering from an underlying disease.
One of the signs of Cushing’s disease, for example, is insatiable hunger. Cushing’s syndrome involves the overproduction of the stress hormone cortisol. A major symptom of this syndrome is an unending appetite.
To rule out health issues, it’s best to observe your pet and discuss these behavioural changes with your vet.
Beyond dog body language: How pet insurance for dogs helps
All dog behaviour has a purpose. While some of these quirky habits may be perfectly normal, some may indicate a problem. By closely observing their dog’s body language instead of just trying to correct them, pet owners can gain valuable insights into their pet’s health and wellbeing.
With Knose’s award-winning dog insurance, you can choose coverage that goes beyond standard health conditions to include behavioural support or specialised therapies like physiotherapy, or even acupuncture.
One of the key benefits of insuring with Knose is access to consultations with veterinary behaviourists. They can diagnose and recommend tailored programs for issues like aggression, anxiety, or compulsive behaviours.
Our focus is to help your dogs lead happier, healthier lives. Because at Knose, we believe in supporting your pet’s health holistically, from physical wellness to emotional wellbeing.
