If dogs could talk, boy would they have stories to tell…

Every dog owner has at some point looked at their furry friend and wondered what they were thinking.

We’ve all had that moment when they give you that look, and you’re convinced they’re about to speak!

Unfortunately, as much as we’d like to, we’ll never get to hear our pals talk.

However, that doesn’t mean they can’t communicate.

Dogs have many ways of trying to speak with us, and of the most common (and cute) is sighing.

Unlike humans, there are many reasons why dogs sigh, so let’s look at the most common ones, and get one step closer to understanding our beloved companions.

Five reasons why dogs sigh

1/ Attention Seeking

Dogs love our attention. Whether it’s showing off their new toy, nudging at an empty bowl, or just looking for their favourite belly rub- they want your recognition!

And if they feel you’re not giving it to them, get ready for a grumbling sigh! Dogs often use their eyes, to signal they want something from us. If they don’t feel seen, they’ll try to be heard!

Like most habits with dogs, the more you respond, the more you can expect to hear it. When they find out what works, they’re going to stick to it – so be warned!

2/ Deep Sleep

You’re chilling on your sofa, book in hand; it’s quiet and it’s getting late.

Suddenly, a hefty sigh echoes across the room from your dog’s bed! These deep slumber sighs mean that your dog is getting in some high-quality sleep.

Those sighs often mark the moment your dog slips into a deeper state of sleep. They’re totally relaxed and drifting through their doggy dreamscape.

This means you don’t have to worry about any late-night cries for spoiling, that is until tomorrow comes…

3/ Disappointments

I guarantee you’ve heard this one.

Causes include empty treat presses, unwalkable weather, and preoccupied owners.

Queue… the disappointed sigh.

Dogs aren’t very good at hiding their emotions. When they’re bored or disappointed, they will let out big sighs. This is usually accompanied by similar downbeat body language like when their tail is down or when they feel sorry for themselves in the corner.

However, don’t feel too bad. Sighing isn’t a sign of genuine sadness, it’s just minor boredom. We recommend a tickle behind the ears, a deep belly scratch or a chase around the table with their favourite toy.(Busterbox link)

4/ Relaxation

The rattle of paws on the tiles, the hover over the bed, the dive into the comfort zone. All before the deep sigh of contentment travels across the room.

These heavy exhales are a sign that our dogs are totally relaxed and in a state of doggy bliss. Dogs love their comfort, and they express that happiness through long drawn-out sighs.

5/ Discomfort and Pain

When our dogs sigh, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, we must remember that sighing is a form of communication and there are instances where dogs do sigh for more worrying reasons.

Consistent sighing at regular intervals may be a sign that your friend is experiencing discomfort or pain of some sort.

Check for:

• If they’re unable to get comfortable.
• They’re avoiding food and water.
• They’re exhibiting other signs of uncomfortable body language.
• They’re behaving unusually.

Sighing coupled with these signs may indicate a number of issues including arthritis, sickness or tumors.

Thankfully, this is rare and it’s far more likely to be something benign.

Feeling worried? Consult with your vet. They have all the answers you seek when it comes to your furry friend’s health and wellbeing.

Final Bark

Dogs can’t talk but they love to communicate. Sighing is one of their most common ways of catching our attention and letting us know how they’re feeling and what they’re thinking.

There’re many reasons, the trick to finding out which one is through the other tell-tale signs of body language, behavior and circumstance.

By knowing more about our dogs, we can understand them better and grow closer to them.

That rounds up this week’s BusterBox blog. Keep your eyes peeled for more interesting canine content as we continue to delve into what makes our furry friends tick.

Turn those sighs into ones of pleasurable contentment. Be sure to check out our BusterBox goodies and give your dog the love they deserve.