Why Do Dogs Cover their Faces?
Unfortunately, we can’t communicate directly with our dogs no matter how much we wish we know what they are saying. Because of this, our pups rely on body language to communicate how they are feeling to us. Here are some common reasons that your furry friend may cover their face.
An Itch
Your pal may simply be scratching an itch when they appear to be hiding their face. Dogs commonly use their front paws to scratch their face. They also use them to wipe their fur and substances that may get stuck in it. If you notice that your dog wipes or scratches their face a lot, check for redness or irritation on their skin or eyes. Regular rubbing could be a cue that your furry friend is experiencing discomfort and needs to see a vet for help. If you are in need of a vet or are in the market for a new one, here are some tips for choosing the right vet.
Fear or Anxiety
If your pal feels stressed or scared they hide their face with their paws. This is their way of communicating with you that they are upset. Try to determine the source of their fear, remove it, and assure your furry friend that they are safe. Consider creating a room for your dog to set aside space that is completely theirs to make them feel secure at home.
Submission
Dogs often cover their face to show respect and submission to the leader of the pack. If they show this behavior to you, this means that they want you to know they are not a threat and that they trust you. Similarly, they may also roll over to show you their belly to convey this.
Amusement
Your four-legged friend is highly perceptive of your behavior and feelings as well. Our dogs love to make us happy and are likely to repeat something that they know entertains you. They may be hiding their face just to make you smile! This is just another reason we love our fur babies so much. If you are looking for other ways you and your pal can have fun together, here are some ideas.
Pay attention to your dog’s body language as a form of communication. Knowing why your pal acts the way he does will help you better determine his feelings and mood. Communication is key, even with our pets.