Understanding Dogs' Emotions and Natural Behaviours

Understanding Dogs' Emotions and Natural Behaviours

By Advanced Animal Care Shop

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Dogs have been our companions for thousands of years, evolving from wolves into the diverse breeds we know today.

As a result, their emotions and behaviours are a fascinating blend of ancient instincts and adaptations to human life.

Scientific studies in ethology—the study of animal behaviour in natural settings—reveal that dogs experience real emotions and exhibit behaviours rooted in survival.

However, while they feel joy, fear, and affection deeply, their emotional range is simpler than ours, comparable to that of a human toddler (around 2-2.5 years old).

Do Dogs Have Emotions?

Yes, dogs undeniably experience emotions. Brain scans show they have the same structures and hormones (like oxytocin and dopamine) that produce feelings in humans. Research confirms dogs feel basic emotions such as:

• Joy and excitement: Evident in playful bouncing, tail wagging, and "play bows."

  
  

• Fear and anxiety: Shown through cowering, trembling, or avoidance.

  
  

• Anger or frustration: Growling or stiff posture in threatening situations.

  
  

• Contentment and love: Relaxed body language and bonding behaviors like leaning or gazing.

  
  

  

  
  

Dogs don't experience complex emotions like guilt, shame, or pride—the "guilty look" after mischief is often fear of punishment, not remorse.

They excel at reading human emotions too, responding differently to happy versus angry faces or voices, and even showing functional understanding by adjusting behaviour (e.g., approaching less when we seem upset).

Interestingly, recent studies suggest humans sometimes misread dog emotions due to our own moods or context biases, highlighting the need to observe dogs objectively.

Natural Behaviours: Instincts from Their Wolf Ancestors

Dogs' behaviours are shaped by ethology—instincts honed for survival in packs. Domestication has softened some traits, but core patterns remain:

• Social pack structure: Dogs are highly social, forming bonds and hierarchies. In wild relatives like wolves, packs are family units cooperating for hunting and protection.

  
  

• Scent marking and exploration: Sniffing is a primary way dogs gather information about their world—far more detailed than our vision.

  
  

• Hunting and play: Chasing, pouncing, and digging stem from predatory instincts, often seen in play.

• Communication: Tail wags, ear positions, and vocalizations convey emotions and intentions.

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These behaviours fulfill mental and physical needs. Denying them (e.g., no walks for sniffing) can lead to frustration or anxiety.

Why It Matters for Dog Owners

Understanding emotions and natural behaviors helps us provide better care. Allow sniffing on walks, encourage play, and read body language accurately to strengthen your bond.

Positive reinforcement aligns with their social nature, building trust without fear.

Dogs may not ponder philosophy, but their emotional world is rich and genuine. By respecting their instincts, we honour the remarkable partnership we've shared for millennia.

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