Why do dogs yawn?
I know that dogs sometimes yawn to alleviate stress, so if a dog yawns when a small child is fussing around it, it might be a good idea to intervene. Small humans don’t understand dog signals and dogs can only communicate in non-linguistic ways. Because of this, it is never a good idea to leave young children alone with dogs of any size. A dog disciplines its puppies by biting and shaking, but puppies have protective fur, not delicate skin, and will not be harmed. Humans have no such protection and can and will be severely damaged.
I’ve never been bitten in anger, but once was caught by Frodo’s teeth when he was unaware during a seizure. It hurt – a lot – and it bruised badly. He would have been mortified, my Velcro dog.
I looked up other reasons for canine yawning. Tiredness can cause it, but my dogs were anticipating an enjoyable outing. Dogs may yawn to calm themselves or each other, or to indicate submission and that they are not presenting a threat. Roxy and Gilbert know each other very well and do not have to compete for their position in the pack. In any case, they are working Labradors, bred to cooperate with people, and other dogs.
Dogs may also yawn in an attempt to regulate their body temperature, in much the same way as panting. They can also show contentment through yawning when they are being caressed. Sometimes, they will yawn in response to their people yawning.
None of these causes fitted the situation, so it was clear that they were yawning because they were excited. Now, a few hours later, they are relaxed and sleeping, Roxy spread out in a dog bed and Gilbert keeping my feet warm. I don’t think he will ever grow out of that endearing puppy habit of seeking refuge next to me.
I just yawned before commenting. I assure you, it is weariness in my case because i found your post interesting. Also the hockey game that I am watching isn't thrilling me.
ReplyDeleteIt's miserable when sleep is interrupted - it affects everything the next day.
DeleteI've seen puppies yawn after a good bout of rough and tumble but haven't noticed dogs yawning.
ReplyDeleteI think all mammals yawn, especially when tired. Some days I seem to do nothing but yawn 😟
DeleteYour thoughtful observations beautifully capture the subtle language of dogs. How their yawns reveal everything from excitement to calm, reminding us to always listen closely and care deeply for our furry companions.
ReplyDeleteIf I were to embark on a career again, I might choose the study of animal behaviour. I admire vets - their patients can't verbally express their ailments.
DeleteSometimes we yawn even if we are not tired or bored. I assumed dogs were much the same as us in that regard.
ReplyDeleteThey are.
DeleteHi Janice - I know I yawn often ... and always yawn if I'm reading aloud to a group, or as was the case my mother ... if another, including a dog, yawns I'll follow suit - who knows??!! Cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteYawns are most contagious, more so than smiles, sadly.
DeleteWhat a lovely and insightful piece! I really enjoyed this gentle dive into dog behavior—especially the way you mix personal anecdotes with thoughtful observation. The image of Roxy and Gilbert yawning in anticipation was both sweet and intriguing, and your explanation about the different meanings behind a dog’s yawn was genuinely fascinating. I also loved the mention of Frodo—so touching and honest. Your writing always feels like a cozy conversation with a fellow dog lover, and it’s a reminder of how much there is to learn from our four-legged companions. More stories like this, please—they’re a joy to read!
ReplyDeleteAh, you're too kind. There are many dog and cat tales in my archives.
DeleteGilbert evidently is very much his mother's puppy. I'll have to look up why cats yawn. Precious does but I always figure it's from waking up from a nap. I didn't know about dogs in the different reasons why they would. Fun things to learn.
ReplyDeleteI haven't noticed our cats yawning as much as our dogs, although they do seem to yawn just before I feed them. Anticipation, perhaps?
DeleteHow interesting. I'll have to take note of the situation the next time I see Gibbs yawning.
ReplyDeleteGibbs is so sweet. 😊
DeleteBeau yawns when we talk about him and he yawns when I aim the cell phone at him.. your dogs are soooooooo sweet
ReplyDeleteDogs are great, aren't they?
DeleteThis was a lovely read. Our Jas yawns when I'm stroking her head when settling her in her bed for the night - it's usually accompanied by a funny little contented squeak.
ReplyDeleteAlison in Wales x
Aww, that's so sweet.
DeleteI haven't lived with a dog for years, but I assume cats have similar reasons for yawning.
ReplyDeleteYou're probably right - after all, we're all mammals.
ReplyDeleteI'm fighting the urge to yawn. 🐱
ReplyDelete🤣😂
ReplyDeleteThat's all very interesting to know. I never knew of the yawn and its different meanings. I think if ever we had another dog and it's doubtful now as we age, I would definitely pay more attention to such things.
ReplyDeleteWe live in such close proximity to our pets that we notice a lot of what goes on. It's interesting to see how they act and react.
DeleteThey are both very cute. My dog is 11 years old and starts yawning around bed time. lol He has ways of letting me know he wants me to go to bed. He won't go to bed alone.
ReplyDeleteAww, bless him! He's looking after you and making sure you get enough sleep.
DeleteThey are both such pretty dogs. I've seen my daughter's dog yawn, but I guess I never paid much attention to it...This is interesting to know the causes. Have a great weekend.
ReplyDeleteI think we notice because we spend so much time with them.
DeleteMy fox-terrier would always yawn if I did. I was closely watched, I think she would have made a good medical assistance dog.
ReplyDeleteSome dogs - and cats - are more attuned than others to their owners. Fox terriers are lovely dogs.
DeleteNice to see Gilbert and Roxy in your photographs.
ReplyDeleteYawns are very contagious and even reading about them I find I'm yawning!
An interesting read though, thank you.
All the best Jan
I wish we caught smiles as readily as we catch yawns!
DeleteMy husband will yawn if he reads; I yawn in a warm bath. Both times I think it is caused by relaxation. Animal non-verbal communication can be quite a fascinating topic.
ReplyDeleteI'm yawning now, reading your comment. I would like to have been an animal behaviourist.
DeleteI had no idea why dogs yawned. I wonder would it be similar for cats?
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I am yawning as I type this :-) xxx
🤣😂
ReplyDeleteI often yawn when I'm out walking. I thought it was to get extra oxygen into my lungs. Maybe the same for dogs?
ReplyDeleteThere is that, too, of course.
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