Why do dogs sometimes yawn when they’re not tired?

Dogs yawn for a variety of reasons, and while yawning is often associated with tiredness in humans, it can signify different things in dogs. Understanding why dogs yawn when they’re not tired requires a closer look at canine behavior, communication, and physiology.

1. Communication and Social Signaling
Yawning in dogs is often a form of communication. Dogs use body language extensively to convey their emotions and intentions, and yawning is one such signal. When a dog yawns in a social context, it can indicate stress, anxiety, or discomfort. For example, if a dog is in a situation that makes them uneasy, such as meeting a new person or being in a crowded environment, they may yawn to signal that they are feeling overwhelmed. This is known as a "calming signal," a term coined by Norwegian dog trainer Turid Rugaas. Calming signals are behaviors dogs use to diffuse tension and communicate non-threatening intentions to other dogs or humans.

2. Stress and Anxiety
Yawning can also be a sign of stress or anxiety in dogs. When a dog is in a stressful situation, such as during a visit to the vet, being scolded, or experiencing a change in their environment, they may yawn as a way to self-soothe. This is similar to how humans might take deep breaths to calm themselves. The act of yawning increases oxygen intake and can help regulate the dog’s nervous system, providing a momentary sense of relief.

3. Empathy and Contagious Yawning
Research has shown that dogs can exhibit contagious yawning, which is when they yawn in response to seeing a human or another dog yawn. This phenomenon is thought to be linked to empathy and social bonding. Studies suggest that dogs are more likely to yawn in response to a familiar person yawning, indicating a level of emotional connection. This behavior is not fully understood, but it highlights the complex social nature of dogs and their ability to mirror human emotions.

4. Displacement Behavior
Yawning can also be a displacement behavior, which is an action performed out of context when a dog is conflicted or unsure how to respond to a situation. For example, if a dog is unsure whether to approach or avoid something, they might yawn as a way to cope with the internal conflict. This type of yawning is often seen in training sessions or during interactions where the dog is trying to figure out what is expected of them.

5. Physical Reasons
While yawning is often behavioral, it can sometimes have physical causes. For example, a dog might yawn if they are experiencing mild discomfort, such as a headache or jaw tension. In rare cases, excessive yawning could be a sign of an underlying medical issue, such as respiratory problems or neurological conditions. If a dog is yawning excessively and showing other signs of distress, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to rule out any health concerns.

Practical Tips and Recommendations
To better understand why your dog is yawning, observe the context in which it occurs. If the yawning seems to be linked to stress or anxiety, try to identify and address the source of their discomfort. Providing a calm and predictable environment, using positive reinforcement training, and ensuring your dog has plenty of opportunities for mental and physical stimulation can help reduce stress-related yawning.

If your dog yawns frequently in social situations, consider whether they might be feeling overwhelmed. Giving them space and allowing them to approach new people or environments at their own pace can help them feel more secure. Additionally, learning to recognize other calming signals, such as lip licking, turning away, or sniffing the ground, can help you better understand your dog’s emotional state.

When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog’s yawning is accompanied by other concerning behaviors, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in breathing, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Excessive yawning could indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. Additionally, if your dog’s yawning is linked to chronic anxiety or behavioral problems, working with a certified dog behaviorist or trainer can help address the root cause and improve your dog’s overall well-being.

In summary, dogs yawn for many reasons beyond tiredness, including communication, stress relief, empathy, and displacement behavior. By paying attention to the context and accompanying behaviors, you can better understand what your dog is trying to communicate and provide the appropriate support.