Why Do Dogs Ears Go Back When You Pet Them

Dogs are known for their expressive nature, and one common behavior that owners often notice is when a dog’s ears go back when they are being petted. This can leave many dog owners wondering why their furry friends react this way. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this behavior and explore the fascinating world of canine communication.

One of the main reasons why a dog’s ears may go back when being petted is due to their natural instinct to show submission. When a dog is being petted, they may perceive it as a form of praise or affection from their owner. In response, they may lower their ears as a sign of submission and respect. This behavior is often seen in dogs that have a close bond with their owners and view them as the pack leader.

According to a canine behavior specialist, “Dogs are pack animals by nature, and they have a strong sense of hierarchy within their pack. When a dog lowers their ears while being petted, it is a way of showing respect and submission to their owner. It is a sign of trust and affection.”

Another reason why a dog’s ears may go back when being petted is due to a feeling of discomfort or anxiety. Some dogs may be sensitive to touch or may not enjoy being petted in certain areas of their body. In these cases, the dog may lower their ears as a way of signaling their discomfort or unease.

A veterinarian specializing in canine behavior explains, “Some dogs may have a lower threshold for touch or may be sensitive to certain areas being petted. When a dog’s ears go back while being petted, it could be a sign that they are feeling uncomfortable or anxious. It’s important for owners to pay attention to their dog’s body language and adjust their petting style accordingly.”

Interestingly, some dogs may also lower their ears when they are feeling happy and content. Just like humans, dogs have different ways of expressing their emotions, and for some dogs, lowering their ears while being petted is a sign of relaxation and happiness.

A dog trainer with years of experience working with various breeds says, “Dogs have their own unique ways of expressing their emotions, and for some dogs, lowering their ears while being petted is a way of showing contentment and relaxation. It’s important for owners to observe their dog’s overall body language to understand how they are feeling.”

There are also certain breeds that are more prone to lowering their ears when being petted. Breeds such as Greyhounds, Whippets, and Italian Greyhounds, which have thin and delicate ears, are known for their sensitive nature and may lower their ears more easily when receiving affection.

A breed-specific behavior consultant explains, “Breeds with delicate and thin ears, such as Greyhounds and Whippets, are more likely to lower their ears when being petted. These breeds tend to be more sensitive and may show their emotions more visibly through their body language, including their ears.”

In addition to breed-specific tendencies, a dog’s past experiences and socialization can also play a role in why their ears may go back when being petted. Dogs that have had negative experiences in the past or have not been socialized properly may exhibit signs of anxiety or discomfort when being petted.

A certified dog behavior consultant states, “A dog’s past experiences and socialization play a significant role in how they respond to being petted. Dogs that have had negative experiences or have not been properly socialized may exhibit signs of anxiety or discomfort, including lowering their ears. It’s important for owners to be patient and understanding with their dogs and to create positive associations with touch.”

Common concerns related to why a dog’s ears may go back when being petted include:

1. My dog’s ears go back whenever I try to pet him. Is he scared of me?

– It’s possible that your dog may be feeling anxious or uncomfortable due to past experiences or sensitivity to touch. Try to observe your dog’s body language and adjust your petting style accordingly.

2. Why does my dog only lower his ears with certain people?

– Dogs may lower their ears in response to different people based on their individual preferences and comfort levels. It’s important to respect your dog’s boundaries and allow them to choose who they feel most comfortable with.

3. Can I train my dog to not lower his ears when being petted?

– While you can work on desensitization and positive reinforcement training to help your dog feel more comfortable with touch, it’s important to understand and respect your dog’s individual preferences and boundaries.

4. My dog’s ears always go back when I try to pet him. Is this a sign of aggression?

– Lowering ears while being petted is typically a sign of submission or discomfort, rather than aggression. It’s important to observe your dog’s overall body language and consult with a professional if you have concerns about aggression.

5. How can I tell if my dog is enjoying being petted?

– Look for signs of relaxation, such as a loose body posture, wagging tail, and soft eyes. If your dog seems happy and content while being petted, it’s likely that they are enjoying the interaction.

6. My dog’s ears go back when I pet him, but he seems to be wagging his tail. What does this mean?

– Tail wagging is often a sign of happiness and excitement in dogs, while lowering ears can indicate submission or discomfort. It’s important to observe your dog’s overall body language to determine how they are feeling.

7. My dog’s ears only go back when I pet him in a certain spot. Why is this?

– Dogs may have sensitive areas on their body that they prefer not to be touched. If your dog’s ears go back when petted in a specific spot, it’s possible that they are sensitive or uncomfortable in that area.

In summary, a dog’s ears may go back when being petted for a variety of reasons, including submission, discomfort, happiness, breed tendencies, past experiences, and socialization. It’s important for owners to be attentive to their dog’s body language and to respect their individual preferences and boundaries when it comes to touch. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior, owners can strengthen their bond with their furry companions and ensure that they feel safe and comfortable in their interactions.