You’ve probably looked at your dog and thought ‘what are they thinking?’. And whilst they can’t exactly speak to us, there are ways they can communicate what they’re thinking without using the same language.
From barking and zoomies to the cold shoulder, TrustedHousesitters has teamed up with vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan to reveal what your pet’s reactions really say about your relationship – and how best to respond to keep your time apart (and return home) healthy.
Whether it’s your dog, cat, or feathered friend, here’s what their welcome home behavior is telling you:
Does your arrival home call for fanfare from your beloved pet? This is a telltale sign of strong attachment and pent-up energy. “Your arrival home can send their excitement into overdrive, especially if you greet them with a high-pitched voice and enthusiastic body language,” says Dr. MacMillan.
“Some dogs will accidentally pee when they are overexcited, especially puppies and young dogs.”
How to respond: Keep greetings low-key to help prevent overexcitement. A calm entrance and delayed affection can encourage more relaxed behaviour over time.
If your usually confident pet suddenly acts shy when you return home, it might just be their polite way of saying that they’re grand you’re back. “Some [pets] are a bit more subtle, but just as pleased,” explains Dr. MacMillan.
“Acting shy or bashful may even be a form of submissive behaviour. Your [pet] sees you as their leader, and they are greeting you in a respectful manner.”
How to respond: Get down to their level and use a soothing tone to reassure them.
Dogs often bring toys as a request to play while cats might deliver “presents” as an expression of affection. “It’s their way of trying to engage with you immediately”, the expert said. “They may have even been a bit bored while you were out and are now ready for a play session or some exercise.”
How to respond: If it’s safe, accept the offering – even if it’s not exactly your idea of a welcome-home gift. MacMillan explains: “The way you react can also reinforce this behaviour as if they know bringing you a toy is likely to elicit a good response from you, they will continue to do it each time.”
Believe it or not, this is often a good sign. “It shows that they don’t consider your arrival and departure as a big deal and that they are happy in their own company.”
Dr MacMillan says that in good news, “this means behavioural issues like separation anxiety are less likely to affect them.” However, if the behaviour is new or accompanied by other signs of depression, it may warrant a check-in with your vet.
How to respond: Don’t take it personally. Let them come to you on their terms.
Is your pet especially vocal when you walk through the door? Every sound is a form of communication. Cats may trill, chirp, or meow in various tones to show affection—or even a bit of annoyance. Dogs might bark, whine, or howl as a way to let out built-up emotions.
How to respond: Pay attention to the tone and body language accompanying it. Happy tail wag? They’re excited. Pinned ears or pacing? They may need some comfort or space.
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