As a dog parent, you’re constantly trying to decode your dog’s body language. If you notice that your dog sighs a lot, you may be wondering what it means. Here’s what the experts say.
If your dog sighs, i.e., lets out a deep, long breath when you pet her, it’s a sign that she’s feeling relaxed and happy. Dogs will lie down, put their head on their forepaws, partially close their eyes, and sigh when they’re content. This behavior indicates that the dog is happy, content, and relaxed.
Humans sometimes sigh when they are frustrated, tired, or angry. But dogs usually sigh to convey contentment and pleasure. Sometimes, however, your dog may sigh when she’s disappointed. As in “why won’t you play with me?”
Some dogs may sigh when they want attention or something else from you, but this is less common. The clue is usually in the eyes. If the sigh is accompanied by half-closed eyes, it indicates contentment. If the eyes are fully open, the sigh may indicate disappointment or attention-seeking behavior. Your pet’s overall body language will tell you whether they are happy and content or distressed and upset by something.
Yawns, moans, and panting can all sound similar to sighs in dogs. However, a yawn, which is a deep breath, is also accompanied by a wide, open mouth. Moans are low-pitched sounds that come from your dog’s vocal cords rather than her breathing. Panting is a breathing sound, but it consists of many short breaths in contrast to a sigh which is a single long breath.
If your dog sighs a lot, it is nothing to worry about. In all likelihood, it means your pooch is relaxed, happy, and content and living his best life.
06 December, 2022