What does it mean when a dog licks its lips or yawns in non-sleepy situations?
1. Lip Licking
Lip licking in dogs is a subtle but significant behavior. It is often a calming signal, a term coined by Norwegian dog trainer Turid Rugaas. Calming signals are behaviors dogs use to communicate with other dogs or humans to reduce tension or avoid conflict. Lip licking can indicate that a dog is feeling stressed, anxious, or uncertain about a situation. For example, if a dog is being scolded, approached by an unfamiliar person, or placed in a new environment, it may lick its lips to signal discomfort.
Lip licking can also occur in response to physical discomfort, such as nausea or dental issues. If your dog is licking its lips excessively and there are no obvious stressors in the environment, it may be worth consulting a veterinarian to rule out medical causes.
2. Yawning
Yawning in dogs is another common calming signal. While humans yawn primarily when tired or bored, dogs yawn in a variety of contexts, often to communicate stress or to diffuse tension. For example, a dog may yawn when it feels overwhelmed, such as during a loud noise, a visit to the vet, or an encounter with an unfamiliar dog. Yawning can also occur when a dog is trying to calm itself or others in a tense situation.
In some cases, yawning can be a sign of anticipation or excitement. For instance, a dog might yawn while waiting for a treat or before going for a walk. However, in most non-sleepy situations, yawning is more likely to indicate stress or discomfort.
3. Practical Tips and Recommendations
To better understand your dog's behavior, observe the context in which lip licking or yawning occurs. Look for other signs of stress, such as panting, pacing, or avoiding eye contact. If you notice these behaviors, try to identify and address the source of your dog's discomfort. For example, if your dog licks its lips when meeting new people, it may need more time to adjust or a quieter environment to feel safe.
When your dog displays calming signals like lip licking or yawning, avoid pushing it into situations that make it uncomfortable. Instead, give your dog space and time to relax. Positive reinforcement training can also help your dog feel more confident in stressful situations.
4. Potential Risks or Concerns
Ignoring these signals can lead to increased stress or even aggression in some cases. If a dog feels that its calming signals are not being acknowledged, it may escalate to more obvious signs of distress, such as growling or snapping. It is important to respect your dog's communication and take steps to reduce its stress.
5. Additional Related Information
Dogs also use other calming signals, such as turning their head away, sniffing the ground, or shaking off. These behaviors are part of a broader repertoire of body language that dogs use to communicate. Learning to recognize these signals can improve your ability to understand and respond to your dog's needs.
6. When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog frequently displays stress signals like lip licking or yawning, or if these behaviors are accompanied by other signs of anxiety, such as destructive behavior or excessive barking, it may be helpful to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess your dog's behavior and provide tailored strategies to reduce stress and improve well-being.
In summary, lip licking and yawning in non-sleepy situations are often calming signals that indicate stress, anxiety, or discomfort. By paying attention to these behaviors and responding appropriately, you can help your dog feel more secure and build a stronger bond based on trust and understanding.
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