A viral video featuring a corgi named Sammy has sparked an engaging debate about your dog’s behavior. In the clip, Sammy mimics his owner’s head movements, leading to widespread speculation about whether he is being playful or showing submission. While the video brings smiles to many, it also highlights the need to understand what our dogs communicate.
@lkatlife Is he ok? Lmfao
Understanding Your Dog’s Behavior: Playfulness vs. Submission
The Key Differences Between Playfulness and Submission
Dogs use body language to express emotions and intentions. While playfulness and submission may appear similar, they have distinct signals.
Signs of Playfulness:
- Play Bow: A dog lowers its front end while keeping its back end raised, signaling a desire to play.
- Loose, Wiggly Movements: A playful dog’s body will appear relaxed, and movements will be bouncy.
- Open Mouth and Tongue Hanging Out: This is often called a “play face” and whatindicates joy.
- Gentle Biting or Pawing: Dogs may gently nip or tap their paws on another dog or person to initiate play.
- Excited Barking or Playful Growling: These vocalizations are different from anxious or fearful sounds.
Signs of Submission:
- Avoiding Eye Contact: Dogs often lower their gaze or turn their head to show deference.
- Flattened Ears: If a dog’s ears are pressed back, it could indicate submission.
- Rolling Over and Showing Belly: This is a classic sign of submission, often inviting a leader’s approval.
- Tucked Tail: A submissive dog may keep its tail low or tucked between its legs.
- Licking or Nuzzling: Dogs may gently lick a dominant figure’s face or hands as a sign of respect.
Common Causes of Submissive Behavior
Understanding why dogs act submissively can help improve communication and strengthen the bond between owners and their pets.
1. Learned Behavior from Puppyhood
Dogs learn social cues early. If they had strong leaders, they might exhibit submissive behaviors naturally as a form of respect.
2. Previous Negative Experiences
A dog that has experienced harsh discipline or past trauma may display more submissive behavior to avoid conflict.
3. Natural Pack Mentality
Dogs are pack animals by nature. Many naturally defer to a leader, whether it’s another dog or a human.
4. Unfamiliar or Stressful Situations
New environments, loud noises, or the presence of strangers can trigger submissive postures in some dogs.
5. Owner-Dog Relationship
Dogs that see their owners as strong but kind leaders may exhibit submissive behaviors as a form of respect rather than fear.
Sammy the Corgi:Is This Dog’s Behavior Playful or Submissive?
In Sammy’s case, experts weigh in with differing opinions. Some believe he avoids eye contact to show deference, while others think he’s merely being playful and curious.
Alicia Collins, CEO of K9 Activity Club, explains, “Avoiding eye contact is common in dogs and is often a sign of submission or deference.” However, she also notes that a dog’s full body language must be assessed.
Other corgi owners in the comments suggested Sammy’s actions were simply curiosity. “As someone with two corgis … I just KNOW they’re nosy and want to see what’s happening,” one owner joked. This highlights the importance of knowing a dog’s breed tendencies as well.
How to Accurately Interpret Your Dog’s Behavior
To determine whether your dog is playful or submissive, look at their full body language rather than focusing on one action.
Check the Context
- Is your dog in a new environment?
- Has there been a recent scolding?
- Are they around a new person or animal?
Observe the Tail and Ears
- A wagging tail and perky ears likely indicate playfulness.
- A tucked tail and flattened ears suggest submission.
Assess Body Tension
- A loose, wiggly posture suggests playfulness.
- A stiff, crouched posture may indicate submission or nervousness.
Final Thoughts
Sammy’s video serves as a great example of how understanding canine behavior requires a full-body assessment. Whether your dog is playfully engaging with you or showing deference, their behavior is a window into their emotions.
Recognizing the difference between playfulness and submission allows owners to better respond to their pets’ needs, fostering a stronger and more trusting bond.
Sources:
- American Kennel Club (AKC) – Understanding Canine Body Language
- ASPCA – Dog Behavior and Communication
- K9 Activity Club – Expert Insights on Dog Behavior
- The Humane Society – Recognizing Stress and Anxiety in Dogs
Photos Courtesy of Pixabay
