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.
