Dogs look super cute when they mimic the expression of a smile. However, does this mean that your dog is actually smiling?
A smirking dog looks like he is smiling. But is it real?
Science says that dogs do not smile. If that is the case that what does the wide mouth grin, lolling tongue and soft face and eye expression mean?
Dogs can feel emotions just like humans.
When dogs see their guardians, they release oxytocin. Oxytocin is a hormone that is released in the human body when we look at someone we love. Dogs feel love, sadness, depression, all of it.
Dogs like to depend on their guardians
A test was conducted on wolves and dogs. They were given containers containing food that was impossible to open. The wolves gave up in a while but the dogs looked towards their guardians for help.
If shows that you dog is happy and content.
The expression of soft gaze, open mouth, tongue rolling out and wagging tail means that your dog is happy in your company. Your dog will display this expression only when he/she is happy, satisfied and content.
Is this the conclusion?
Even though dogs cannot smile they can display their happiness by their varied expression. Their happiness can be measured via the happy meter i.e. their tail. If it is wagging away, you can rest assured that your dog is very happy.
Dogs learn very fast
Dogs are one of the fastest learning creatures. Your dog noticed that his smiling behavior was rewarded. This encouraged him to engage in this behavior repeatedly. Dogs also behave in manner they think would please their guardians or help them when sad or depressed.
Do dogs respond to the smile of humans?
Dogs can read the body language of their guardians. Your dog knows how you are feeling without you saying anything. Once your dog realises what makes you happy, he will engage in that behavior more often.
Do dogs smile as response to guilt?
When dogs commit mistakes, they will smile to show a submissive nature. The smile is their way of calming their guardian down. Since smile is known to cool down the guardian faster, your dog will engage in such behavior.
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Hi I am Dr Shruti. I love writing on everything related to dog care. Welcome to your one-stop destination of dog care. Articles focus on dog care, grooming, psychology, training, diseases and everything else dog-related.