Have you ever wondered why your dog spins around before he lies down? Or why he insists on burying bones in the couch instead of in the yard?
Dog behavior seems strange until you find out what is behind it.
These actions are not just whims, but the legacy of thousands of years of evolution, mixed with attempts to adapt to life next to humans.
Take, for example, the ritual of whirling before bed. In the wild, dogs' ancestors, wolves, would knead grass and leaves to create a soft bed. And at the same time, they would check the area for insects or snakes.
Your pet, even if he sleeps on an orthopedic mattress, still performs this ancient dance. It is an instinct that has not disappeared, despite the comfort of the apartment.
What about "digging" in the air after eating? Some dogs paw the floor near their bowl, as if trying to bury the remains.
This is how their distant relatives hid food in reserve so that other predators would not find it. Modern dogs do not need to store food, but the instinct has been preserved.
If your dog does this, it may be because the portion is too large, or because he doesn't like the food. Or he may simply be "securing" resources for the future.
Many owners get annoyed when their dog drags sticks, pine cones, and other trash from the street into the house. But for a dog, this is not trash. He shows you the "trophies" to share the joy of discovery.
In the wolf stage, puppies would bring prey to their elders so that they could appreciate their skills. Your pet may see you as the leader and expect praise for his find.
Why do dogs lick their faces? Puppies do this to beg for food from their mother, and adults do this to show their submission.
When your dog licks you, he's not only expressing love, but also reminding you, "I'm part of your pack, you're in charge." He's also remembering your taste and smell—a way to strengthen the bond.
Another mystery is rolling on smelly objects. It seems that the pet specifically wants to become unbearable.
But in the wild, animals mask their scent to sneak up on prey or hide from enemies. For a dog, the smell of rotten fish or droppings isn't disgusting, it's perfect camouflage.
In addition, she can “bring” the smell as a trophy to show to her relatives.
Some habits are linked to anxiety. If your dog chews furniture when he's alone, it could be boredom or stress from being alone.
And chasing the tail is not always a game. Sometimes it is a way to release excess energy or even a sign of neurosis. It is important to observe the context: if the behavior becomes obsessive, it is worth contacting a veterinarian.
How to react to oddities? Don't scold your dog for instincts - it's like being angry at the rain. It's better to channel the energy into a peaceful channel. Give your dog toys for digging, allow him to "hide" treats in a special mat.
If she drags trash, teach her the command "Give" by offering a treat in return. Remember: her actions are an attempt to communicate with you in a language she knows.
Dogs can't talk, but their actions speak volumes. You just have to want to hear them.
Author: Igor Zur