When a dog is trained, it typically follows its owner’s suggestions without hesitation, whether it’s going for a walk or taking a bath. However, there may be rare occasions when a dog says “no” by refusing to comply with its owner’s commands. It’s important for pet owners to recognize these situations to prevent them from escalating. This article will explore some of the ways dogs express their refusal, so you can better understand your own dog or puppy.
Refusing Eye Contact
If your dog is saying “no” by not responding to your commands, they may be avoiding you by not making eye contact. This could be due to feeling overwhelmed or not wanting to deal with an issue at the moment. It is best to give your pet some time to calm down. After a break, they may be more receptive to your commands.
Intently Staring at a Person
When you’re at a park with your dog, its common for strangers to approach and want to pet them. However, your dog may not be receptive to it. If your dog responds by staring intensely at the stranger, it’s usually a sign that they are feeling threatened according to the American Kennel Club. To prevent your dog from trying to repel the stranger, it’s important to take immediate action. You can use dog training tips to calm your pet down and ensure the safety of both your dog and the stranger.
Wide Eyes
You may be able to tell that your dog is about to become defensively aggressive even before they start to stare intently. Another sign to be aware of is your dog’s eyes appearing wider than normal. If the whites of their eyes are on display, you should interpret that as a sign of fear. Ask the stranger to leave your dog alone immediately to avoid your dog displaying defensive aggression. Give your pet time to calm down before you do anything else.
Excessive Panting
During hot weather, dogs pant to regulate their body temperature. It’s normal to observe panting in dogs during summer afternoons. However, if your dog is panting in a cool environment, it may signify discomfort or distress. In such a scenario, your dog may use panting as a way to express their discomfort with the current situation.
Frequent Lip Licking
If your dog or puppy is in an uncomfortable situation, they may show it by frequently licking their lips. This behavior is similar to panting and can be a sign of distress. However, it may be harder to notice because it’s a subtle motion. Therefore, you need to pay close attention to your pet’s body language to detect any signs of discomfort. Keep an eye out for excessive lip licking, as it could indicate your pet is in distress. By being vigilant and watching out for these signs, you can take better care of your furry friend.
If you’d like to learn more about how your dog says “no”, our dog trainer Cathy would be more than happy to help. Schedule a complimentary call today: https://app.10to8.com/book/zxznlfrciytyebkoug/. To learn more about her dog training approach, watch the short video on our dog training page.
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