Many dog owners notice that dogs often sneeze when they are playing or excited by something. This is called “play sneezing” and it's normal and harmless. It just means that your dog is having loads of fun! Dogs sneeze when playing to signal that their behaviour is only play, and that they're enjoying themselves.
Sometimes dogs sneeze as a sign of excitement or playfulness. This “play sneeze” is another way your dog expresses themselves, just like wagging their tail or barking. Some dogs experience “reverse sneezing” which is irritation of the soft palate, throat, nose or sinuses.
Normal Dog Communication
Dogs may sneeze when they are excited, happy, or showing submission to other dogs, for example. If your dog's sneezing seems to happen most often when they're excited about a walk or greeting you at the door, then there likely isn't any cause for concern.
When dogs play together, they constantly communicate through sneezes. Dogs will also use sneezes as a “calming signal” to show that they need to slow down, take a break, or express that they are comfortable with what's happening.
Your dog might sneeze when they come into contact with a strong smell, but they may also be anxious. In addition to sneezing, a dog may cough as a way of releasing the built-up stress they're feeling.
Huffing and Puffing: Huffing, puffing, or (in our house) “chuffing” is when the dog rapidly exhales a small amount of air, that sounds like a cross between an exhale and a bark. It's a form of stress relief, and can also be a precursor to escalating aggressive behaviors.
Many dog owners notice that dogs often sneeze when they are playing or excited by something. This is called “play sneezing” and it's normal and harmless. It just means that your dog is having loads of fun! Dogs sneeze when playing to signal that their behaviour is only play, and that they're enjoying themselves.
Most of the time dogs sigh when they are sleeping or are feeling relaxed. However, sometimes dogs will also sigh when they are bored or upset about something. Of course, dogs will sigh if they have learned that sighing gets their owner's attention.
In the language of dogs, the yawn is often used as a calming signal. It's a way of saying, I've had enough and my patience is running out. For example, in a training session, your dog may yawn to deal with frustration and to give himself a mental break.
Dogs need roughage in their diets and grass is a good source of fiber. A lack of roughage affects the dog's ability to digest food and pass stool, so grass may actually help their bodily functions run more smoothly.
Dogs will usually sleep 12-14 hours spread throughout the day, with puppies clocking in even more hours of slumber. In fact, it's not uncommon for a dog to sleep up to 20 hours a day in their first few months of life. Sleep allows the body to recharge and repair, so it's important to let your pet enjoy their downtime.
Your dog licks you to show they care, to get attention, to understand you better and because they enjoy it. However, the reason they may prefer your feet could be because they're bursting with scent information that tells them a lot about you, where you've been and what you've been doing.
Dog behavior experts believe this particular sneeze is part of a set of a communication tools dogs use to relate to one another—to signal cooperation, warning, deference, or an invitation to play. The sneeze in this context is a reminder to the playmate that the scrimmage is just play, not a true fight.
If caught unaware by another person's sneeze, a dog may be startled. Some dogs may jump up or jump on the owner and bark in alarm. When your dog jumps on you after you have sneezed, he may also be looking you over to make sure you are OK. From his perspective, it might be a cry of pain or for help.
It can sometimes be difficult to know when your dog is play-fighting and not actually fighting, thanks to its aggressive head shaking, chasing, growling and barking. The regular sneeze is your dog's way of letting you know it's all in good fun and that it isn't agitated.
Dogs are social creatures and can very easily get bored if not provided with enough attention. Bored dogs will find interesting things to do, but what's great fun for the dog can often be destructive to your home and even dangerous for your pet.
A dog will lay his head over your neck to feel close to you. It is a sign of affection. So give your dog some love and then gently shift them away, so they learn that isn't a permanent place to stay.
Just like you imagine, doggie kisses are also forms of affection. That is, it's affectionate when combined with butt wiggles and other signals of happiness.
"As for the sneezes—that's a kind of dog laugh,'' says Shojai. "So maybe the dog feels amused or puzzled and laughs off the strange-to-him gesture." Sneezing can also be used as an appeasement signal. Bottom line, these actions are likely your dog's way of asking you to please stop with the kisses.
Growling during play does not mean your dog is aggressive. It simply means they're having a great time. Your dog might even growl during a particularly pleasing cuddle or patting session. Many dogs growl talk to communicate contentment or as a greeting.
When dogs get excited, like when they're playing with you or you've just gotten home after work, dogs will often shake. This is actually a natural reaction in their body to exert excess energy and calm them down.
The 'Rule of Three' means that you can gauge the time it might take for your dog to fully acclimate to his home in threes: three days, three weeks, and three months. Think of your new dog's first 3 days as their time to decompress as they transition from a shelter or foster home into your home.
If your dog follows you everywhere then it's most likely a sign that they love and adore you. When dogs interact with someone they like, the hormone oxytocin is released. Oxytocin is often referred to as the 'love hormone' and makes you feel that warm glow when you're around someone you like.
They might make an effort to cuddle with you more or follow you around the house. Your dog may also approach you in a non-threatening manner. For instance, they might approach you with their tail lowered instead of active and alert. They might also put their paw or head on yours to show support.