At Dogby, we're curious about dogs and always try to learn more about dogs in general and about our own dogs! That's why we love learning everything we can about dog body language and really digging in beyond the basics.
Did you know that you can tell a lot about how your dog feels by the position in which they lay down? And that laying down doesn't always mean a dog is relaxed? Keep reading to learn more about what a few common positions might signal.
Note: When trying to read a dog's body language, it's best to look at their whole body and not hyper focus on one aspect. So remember to look at your dog's face, body, and tail to get a full picture.
Sphinx Pose
Dogs who are laying with all four paws on the floor and their back legs on either side of them are ready to pop up at a moment' notice. This could signal that a dog is excitedly anticipating something, struggling to feel calm, or feeling worried about something.
Rolled Onto One Hip
This is a more comfortable position, and it takes a little longer to get up from it, so dogs in this position are usually feeling more relaxed, content, and settled.
Flopped Onto One Side
This is a vulnerable position, so it suggests that your dog feels safe in their environment. It also may mean that they are bored, relaxed, or tired.
This is not the same as when dogs lay on their side and expose their bellies during social situations that worry them. That is almost always a sign of social anxiety and is not a way to ask for a belly rub, even though it looks like that.