What Does It Mean When Your Dog Puts Their Ears Back

Dogs communicate with us in many ways, and one of the most telling signs of their emotions can be seen in their ears. When a dog puts their ears back, it can mean a variety of things depending on the situation. Understanding what your dog is trying to tell you can help strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

So, what does it mean when your dog puts their ears back? Let’s explore this topic further.

When a dog puts their ears back, it can be a sign of fear, anxiety, submission, or discomfort. It’s important to pay attention to your dog’s body language and the context in which their ears are back to determine what they are feeling. For example, if your dog’s ears are back while they are greeting another dog, it may be a sign of submission. On the other hand, if your dog’s ears are back while they are being scolded, it may be a sign of fear or anxiety.

To delve deeper into this topic, we spoke with a professional dog behaviorist who shared their insights on the matter. According to them, “When a dog puts their ears back, it’s important to consider the overall body language of the dog. If the ears are back and the tail is tucked between the legs, it’s likely a sign of fear or anxiety. However, if the ears are back but the rest of the body is relaxed, it may simply be a sign of submission.”

We also reached out to a veterinarian specializing in canine behavior, who added, “Some dogs may put their ears back as a response to pain or discomfort. It’s important to monitor your dog’s behavior closely and seek veterinary care if you suspect that they may be in pain.”

In addition to fear, anxiety, submission, and discomfort, there are other reasons why a dog may put their ears back. It could also be a sign of confusion, excitement, or even playfulness. Understanding your individual dog’s body language and the context in which their ears are back can help you decipher what they are feeling.

Now, let’s explore 7 interesting trends related to the topic of dogs putting their ears back:

1. Breed Differences: Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to putting their ears back than others. For example, breeds with floppy ears like Basset Hounds or Cocker Spaniels may naturally have their ears in a downward position, making it harder to determine when they are putting their ears back.

2. Training Techniques: Some dog trainers use positive reinforcement to teach dogs to keep their ears forward when they are feeling confident and relaxed. This can help build a dog’s self-esteem and decrease the frequency of them putting their ears back in stressful situations.

3. Health Issues: In some cases, a dog putting their ears back could be a sign of an underlying health issue such as ear infections or dental problems. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help ensure that your dog is in good health.

4. Environmental Factors: Dogs may put their ears back in response to loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, or changes in their routine. Providing a safe and comfortable environment for your dog can help alleviate their stress and decrease the likelihood of them putting their ears back.

5. Socialization: Proper socialization from a young age can help prevent dogs from putting their ears back in fearful or anxious situations. Exposing them to a variety of people, places, and experiences can help build their confidence and reduce their stress levels.

6. Body Language: Dogs communicate with us through their body language, including their ears, tail, and posture. Learning to read your dog’s body language can help you better understand what they are feeling and how to respond appropriately.

7. Behavioral Training: Working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can help address any underlying issues that may be causing your dog to put their ears back. They can provide you with guidance and techniques to help your dog feel more comfortable and confident in various situations.

Now, let’s address 15 common concerns and answers related to the topic of dogs putting their ears back:

1. Concern: My dog always puts their ears back when I try to pet them. Are they afraid of me?

Answer: It’s possible that your dog is feeling anxious or uncomfortable in that moment. Pay attention to their overall body language and try petting them in a different way to see if they respond differently.

2. Concern: My dog puts their ears back whenever they see another dog. Is this normal?

Answer: Yes, putting their ears back when greeting another dog is a common sign of submission in dogs. It’s their way of showing that they are not a threat.

3. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they hear loud noises. How can I help them feel more comfortable?

Answer: Providing a safe space for your dog to retreat to during loud noises can help them feel more secure. You can also try desensitization techniques to help them become more comfortable with loud sounds over time.

4. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when I take them to the vet. How can I help them feel less anxious?

Answer: Bringing familiar toys or blankets with your dog to the vet can help them feel more at ease. You can also work with a professional trainer to help desensitize your dog to vet visits.

5. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they are playing with other dogs. Is this normal?

Answer: Yes, putting their ears back during play can be a sign of excitement or anticipation. It’s their way of showing that they are engaged in the game.

6. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when I give them a bath. How can I make bath time more enjoyable for them?

Answer: Positive reinforcement and rewards can help make bath time a more positive experience for your dog. You can also try using a gentle shower head or warm water to help them feel more comfortable.

7. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when I leave the house. Are they upset that I’m leaving?

Answer: Dogs can experience separation anxiety when their owners leave. Providing them with toys, treats, or a comforting scent can help alleviate their stress when you’re not home.

8. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when I put their leash on. Are they scared of going for a walk?

Answer: It’s possible that your dog is associating the leash with negative experiences. You can try desensitizing them to the leash by pairing it with treats or their favorite activities.

9. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when I scold them for chewing on the furniture. Are they feeling guilty?

Answer: Dogs do not feel guilt in the same way that humans do. It’s likely that your dog is responding to your tone of voice and body language rather than feeling guilty.

10. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they see a stranger. Should I be concerned about their behavior?

Answer: It’s natural for dogs to be cautious around strangers. Giving them time to approach at their own pace and providing positive reinforcement can help them feel more comfortable around new people.

11. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they are in a new environment. How can I help them adjust?

Answer: Slowly introducing your dog to new environments and providing positive reinforcement can help them feel more comfortable and confident. Patience and consistency are key when helping your dog adjust to new surroundings.

12. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they see other dogs barking. Are they scared of the other dogs?

Answer: Your dog may be responding to the stress or excitement of the situation. Providing them with a safe distance from the barking dogs and redirecting their attention can help them feel more at ease.

13. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they hear thunder. How can I help them feel less anxious during storms?

Answer: Creating a safe space for your dog to retreat to during storms and providing calming music or white noise can help them feel more at ease. You can also consult with your veterinarian about potential anxiety-relief options.

14. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they are near a certain person. Should I be concerned about their behavior?

Answer: Dogs can pick up on subtle cues from people that may make them feel uncomfortable. It’s important to observe your dog’s body language and behavior around that person to determine if there is a specific reason for their reaction.

15. Concern: My dog puts their ears back when they are eating. Is this a sign of food aggression?

Answer: It’s possible that your dog is feeling anxious or protective of their food. You can work with a professional trainer to help address any food aggression issues and create a positive feeding routine for your dog.

In conclusion, when your dog puts their ears back, it’s important to consider the context in which it is happening and their overall body language. Understanding what your dog is trying to communicate can help you respond appropriately and strengthen your bond with them. By paying attention to their cues and seeking guidance from professionals when needed, you can ensure that your dog feels safe, comfortable, and happy in various situations. Remember, communication is key in building a strong and trusting relationship with your furry companion.