17: Wagging Tails & Wiggly Butts: The Secret Language of Your Dog

Learn about how PAW-some your dog REALLY is by barking up the FUN tree!

Pic above: Janine Driver’s middle son. Charlie (10 yrs) getting a right-handed handshake from JoJo, their 2-year old lovable Lab (January 26, 2024)

Hey there, dog enthusiast & furry friend aficionado!

Ever wondered what your dog is really saying when they expose their belly? I’ve got the answers!

I'm thrilled to invite you on a playful and enlightening journey into the *ruff* and tumble world of canine communication, inspired by my lifelong love affair with dogs. My story begins with Shadow, a lovable lab-beagle mix from the pound, igniting my passion for understanding our four-legged companions. As life unfolded, Hamilton, a Jack Russell terrier, came in with my ex-husband, teaching me the quirky joys of terrier life. After his sad passing we found solace in welcoming not one, but two more Jack Russells, T-Rex and Elsie - doubling the FUN and chaos. And then came a subsequent divorce, and my doggie dream came true – I got JoJo, a beautiful yellow lab, who has filled my life - and my three sons’ - lives with boundless joy and slobbery kisses.

While I’m not a dog trainer, I have several friends who are, and I’ve been the keynote speaker at the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) three times!

Welcome to my newsletter, IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT, where a wag isn't just a wag, and a sniff is worth a thousand words. Today, we're DRIVING nose-first into the fascinating (and often hilarious) realm of dog body language and behavior. From the perky ears of curiosity to the frenzied frolics of the zoomies, we'll decode what our canine pals are trying to tell us.

Whether you're a seasoned dog parent or just starting your pup journey, there's something here for everyone. So grab your leash, fetch your furry friend, and let's em-BARK on this tail-wagging exploration together! 🐕🐾🎉

Video above: Janine Driver has her two-year-old Labrador, JoJo, give her a handshake. The handshake is always with her right paw, although JoJo has a left paw preference in general (you’ll discover more about right and left paw preferences in the 10 FUN facts video below) - January 26, 2024

10 Fun Facts About Your Dog’s Behavior

Get ready for a tail-wagging journey! In our FUN-filled (3-minute) video, we reveal the top 10 amusing facts about your dog's behavior. Perfect for a quick laugh and delightful insights, this is a must-watch for every dog lover. So, grab your furry friend, hit play, and let's uncover the quirky world of our beloved pups! 🐾🐶💕

The Tail Wag - More Than Just a Happy Dance

Did you know that when your dog wags its tail to the right, it’s like a thumbs-up, but a left-wag is more like a subtle side-eye?

Research from the University of Trento, Italy, suggests dogs have emotions tied to their tail-wagging direction. This study found that dogs show different emotional responses to left- or right-asymmetric tail wagging. This behavior is associated with different activation in the left and right brain structures that control tail movement.

Interestingly, dogs observing other dogs with a left-biased tail wag showed higher cardiac activity and signs of anxious behavior compared to when they observed right-biased tail wagging (and the GIF above, the dog on the left of the picture has a right-biased tail wag). This suggests that the direction of tail wagging in dogs is not just a random act but is linked to their emotional state and brain activity.

Then there’s the dog who wags its tail back-and-forth from left to right (like the dog on the right-side of the GIF above), which generally indicates a state of happiness or excitement. This type of tail wagging is commonly seen when dogs are in a relaxed and comfortable state or when they are greeting their owners or other dogs. It's a sign of friendliness and contentment, often accompanied by other positive body language like a relaxed posture and a happy expression. However, it's important to consider the entire body language of the dog, as context can affect the interpretation of tail wagging.

So next time you see that tail going left, maybe check if your dog's just watched you eat the last piece of steak without sharing.

Ears: The Satellite Dishes of Emotions

Dogs’ ears are like their personal emotional barometers. Ears flat against the head? Your pooch might be feeling scared or submissive—possibly a reaction to your questionable choice of singing in the shower.

Seriously, the neurobiology of facial expressions in dogs reveals that during threatening situations, such as encountering an unfamiliar person or another dog, dogs might flatten their ears as part of a fear response. This response involves the amygdala and the secretion of catecholamines, which stimulate the motor cortex and affect facial expressions, including ear positioning.

On the other hand, perked-up ears? Alert and ready for action (or maybe just the sound of a treat bag opening). Pleasant emotions can lead to different ear positions. When dogs experience positive emotions, such as the joy of being with humans or other dogs, there can be an increase in certain hormones like oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. This hormonal change can activate facial muscles, potentially leading to more relaxed or perked-up ear positions, as part of a more general “happy” expression.

Keep in mind, it’s important to consider the overall context and other body language cues to accurately interpret a dog's emotional state.

The Art of the Sniff - Doggy Handshakes

Sniffing is the doggy equivalent of scrolling through a friend's social media profile. It’s their way of catching up on the latest gossip - “Ah, Max was here, and he had chicken for lunch!”

This behavior is deeply rooted in their extraordinary olfactory abilities. Dogs' sense of smell is estimated to be 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than ours, enabling them to pick up on a vast range of information from their environment. They use their noses to identify individuals, understand the health status, age, and emotional state of other dogs, and learn about their surroundings. When dogs sniff each other, it's like they're getting a detailed profile of the other dog, including details about what they've eaten and even their mood!

Furthermore, research has highlighted the importance of sniffing in dogs' emotional wellbeing. A study demonstrated that dogs who engage in nosework, which allows them to use their sense of smell freely, exhibited signs of increased optimism compared to those who didn't. This suggests that sniffing not only helps dogs gather information but also contributes positively to their mental health. It's a form of “foraging” for them, an essential and natural behavior that enhances their welfare.

So, the next time you see your dog with their nose to the ground or keenly sniffing another dog, remember, they're not just being nosy. They're scrolling through their version of social media, catching up on the latest neighborhood “posts” and “updates”!

The Belly Up - Trust or a Cunning Trap?

Is it a sign of trust, or just a clever ruse for belly rubs? When your dog goes belly up, it's not just an adorable pose for belly rubs; it's a language of its own in the doggy world! Let's decode what our furry friends might be saying with this gesture.

Firstly, it's a sign of trust and comfort. When a dog exposes its belly, a very vulnerable part of their body, it's often a signal of trust towards you. It's their way of saying, "I feel safe around you." This behavior stems from their ancestral traits where showing the belly could be a submissive gesture to avoid conflict.

But of course, who can ignore the obvious?

Many dogs absolutely love getting their bellies rubbed. It's a mutual pleasure thing – you enjoy petting them, and they relish the attention and affection. Belly rubs can be a form of bonding, enhancing the special connection between you and your pooch.

It's also worth noting that not all belly exposures are an invitation for a rub. Sometimes, it's a sign of submission. In the dog world, rolling over and showing the belly can be a way to appease more dominant dogs, or in the case of our pets, to show respect and acknowledgment of our role as their caregivers.

Also, on hot days, exposing the belly helps them cool down as the fur is thinner and the skin is more exposed to the air.

So, the next time your dog rolls over, it could be a mix of trust, a clever ruse for some pampering, or just a practical solution to cool down!

Barking - The Good, The Bad, and The “Please Stop”

Barking is like your dog's own personal Twitter account, where every woof is a tweet. Some barks mean “Hey, I'm here!”, while others are more “Intruder alert! Squirrel on the lawn!” Then there are those 3 AM “just thinking about life” barks that leave us all wondering.

Just as we use different tones and words to convey our emotions and information, dogs use various types of barks. Research indicates that the nuances in a dog's bark can convey different messages. For instance, one study found that dogs can distinguish between barks from familiar and unfamiliar dogs, and they respond differently based on the context of the bark.

This suggests that dogs are not just barking randomly; they are communicating specific messages, just like we do with our words on social media.

The Zoomies - Furry Tornados of Joy

Ah, the zoomies, or as they are scientifically known, Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), are indeed a whirlwind of joy and energy in the canine world. These bursts of energy are a fascinating aspect of dog behavior, resembling a furry tornado racing around your living room or yard.

According to Dr. Pamela J. Perry from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University, there isn't a specific known cause for FRAPs in dogs. However, they are commonly understood as a way for dogs to release pent-up energy or alleviate stress. For instance, a dog that has been alone all day might zoom around to expend that energy and relieve the boredom of under-stimulation. FRAPs can also happen when dogs become overly excited, like when an owner returns home after a long absence. While more common in puppies and young dogs, even adult dogs can have their zoomie moments, especially in response to certain triggers like play or exciting events.

Interestingly, the occurrence of zoomies can also be a way for your dog to tell you something. If your dog frequently gets zoomies, especially at odd times, it might be an indication that they need more physical exercise and mental stimulation.

It's important to ensure they have a safe space for their zoomies to avoid injuries. For instance, avoiding stairs and slippery floors during these high-energy episodes is recommended. If zoomies happen frequently, it might also be a sign that the dog is not getting enough exercise throughout the day, and you might want to consider increasing their physical activities or engaging them in mentally stimulating games.

So, the next time your dog gets the zoomies, remember it's a normal, joyful expression of their energy and happiness. Just make sure they're zooming safely!

Training Tips - Patience, Treats, and Belly Rubs

Training your furry friend with the 3 Ps: Patience, Praise, and Plenty of treats is like tapping into their doggy dream world, where every good deed is celebrated with a delicious cookie! It turns out, this FUN and rewarding approach aligns perfectly with the wag-worthy world of positive reinforcement.

Picture this: your dog's training session as a joyful game show, where every correct move wins them the jackpot treat! This method isn't just a carnival of FUN; it's scientifically sound. Studies show that dogs who are trained with this positive, treat-filled approach end up being more obedient and happier. It's like training them with a constant stream of “good doggo” tweets, where every right action gets a virtual heart or, even better, a real tasty treat!

But patience is key. Imagine teaching your dog not to bark at guests; it's like waiting for the kettle to boil - it takes time bitch (#SaidWithLove), but the result is worth it. You reward them for those precious moments of silence, starting with a treat for a second of quiet, then gradually increasing the wait time. It's like a FUN patience game, where silence is golden (and delicious!).

And let's talk about the treats - the doggy equivalent of finding a hidden stash of candy. The best treats are like doggy gourmet cuisine - small, soft, stinky (the meatier, the better), and novel. It's like having a variety of secret weapons in your treat arsenal.

For an extra sprinkle of FUN, enter the clicker - a nifty little gadget that marks the spot-on behavior, making training precise and clear. It's like having a 'That's it!' button. Not into clickers? No problem! A happy, enthusiastic "Yes!" works wonders too.

So, in the delightful world of dog training, it's all about being a cookie-wielding, praise-giving, patience-having superstar. Your dog learns best when life is a joyful, treat-filled party!

To DRIVE into the science and FUN of positive reinforcement training, with some wicked cool tips and tricks check out my favorite TikToker… Bo Harrison!

Bo is like the party planner for your dog's training fiesta! 🐶🎉🍪

Conclusion: The Fetching Finale

In conclusion, our dogs aren’t just pets; they’re master communicators, tail-wagging therapists, and our loyal, furry friends. Understanding their body language opens up a whole new world of bonding and hilarious insights.

Well my two-legged friend, I’m off to let JoJo outside one last time before I call it a night! And before I head downstairs, remember… The next time you’re hanging out with your four-legged pal, take a moment to appreciate the wags, sniffs, and zoomies. They’re trying to tell you, in their own goofy way, “I love you bitch!”

P.S. Wait until you read my next newsletter, I’m analyzing someone super famous who’s been in the news a lot lately!🐾

Resources

Quaranta, A., Siniscalchi, M., & Vallortigara, G. (2013). Seeing left- or right-asymmetric tail wagging produces different emotional responses in dogs. *Current Biology*, 23(22), 2279-2282. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2013.09.027

Beerda, B., Schilder, M. B. H., van Hooff, J. A. R. A. M., de Vries, H. W., & Mol, J. A. (1998). Behavioural, saliva cortisol and heart rate responses to different types of stimuli in dogs. *Applied Animal Behaviour Science*, 58(3-4), 365-381. doi: 10.1016/S0168-1591(97)00145-7

Riemer, S., Assis, L., Pike, T. W., & Mills, D. S. (2016). Dynamic changes in ear temperature in relation to separation distress in dogs. *Physiology & Behavior*, 167, 86-91. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.09.004

Jezierski, T., Adamkiewicz, E., Walczak, M., Sobczynska, M., & Ensminger, J. (2021). Canine Olfaction: Physiology, Behavior, and Possibilities for Practical Applications. *Animals*, 11(8), 2463. doi: 10.3390/ani11082463

Duranton, C., & Horowitz, A. (2018). Let me sniff! Nosework induces positive judgment bias in pet dogs. *Applied Animal Behaviour Science*, 207, 61-66. doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.07.006

[Why Dogs Sniff Each Other: The Science behind Canine Behavior](https://www.mydogsaremykids.com/why-dogs-sniff-each-other-the-science-behind-canine-behavior/). My Dogs Are My Kids.

AnimalWised. (n.d.). My Dog Is Showing Its Belly - Why They Expose Their Bellies. Retrieved from [AnimalWised](https://www.animalwised.com/my-dog-is-showing-its-belly-why-they-expose-their-bellies-3583.html)

Gibeault, S. (2023, July 25). Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs? American Kennel Club. Retrieved [AKC](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/why-do-dogs-like-belly-rubs/)

Figo Pet Insurance. (2023, April 7). Why Do Dogs Love Belly Rubs? Retrieved from [Figo Pet Insurance](https://figopetinsurance.com/blog/why-do-dogs-love-belly-rubs)

Peter, P., Eva, S., Anna, K., Andras, P., & Adam, M. (2014). More Than Noise?—Field Investigations Of Intraspecific Acoustic Communication In Dogs (Canis Familiaris). Applied Animal Behavior Science, 159, 62-68.

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (n.d.). What are zoomies? Retrieved from [Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/what-are-zoomies).

DOG by Dr Lisa. (n.d.). The science behind zoomies. Retrieved from [DOG by Dr Lisa](https://dogbydrlisa.com/blogs/tips/the-science-behind-zoomies).

Todd, Z. (2016). Positive Reinforcement and Dog Training VII: Summary and Conclusions. Companion Animal Psychology. Retrieved from [Companion Animal Psychology](https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/2012/08/positive-reinforcement-and-dog-training.html).

K9 of Mine. (n.d.). Positive Reinforcement Dog Training 101: The Science-Backed Method! Retrieved from [K9 of Mine](https://www.k9ofmine.com/positive-reinforcement-dog-training/).