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why does my dog act like he is in trouble if he isn't eating, running, or playing?
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Guest 412719
on Nov 7th 2009
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in Other Behavior & Training
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Do you mean he acts guilty when he's not active? If that's what you mean, I think you're probably misinterpreting his body language. Though, I get where you're coming from. My Papillon mix has a sorrowful look on his face sometimes. After a while, I determined that that was his "I'm so bored" look.
Burkett's Cookies 'n' Creme
answered 2 weeks, 1 day ago.
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Hi there!
I agree with Cookie - you may be misinterpreting your dog's body language. When Katie approaches me, she usually lowers her head, with her eyes rolled up toward me in a submissive posture that almost looks guilty. I never punish her, never yell at her, never cause her any harm (unless I accidentally step on her tail or something), so I know she's not feeling guilty. She is simply exhibiting a polite approach to the dominant female in the household.
I have learned a lot about dog behavior since we adopted Katie from the pound over two years ago - some from Katie's trainer and some from books on the subject. I highly recommend The Other End of the Leash by Patricia McConnell, Ph.D. She is a brilliant behaviorist who owns several dogs. The stories and photos in that book are really interesting and helpful.
You might want to cultivate some friendships at your local dog park or dog beach. Some of the humans there are quite helpful (though some are not). Good luck!
Katie
answered 2 weeks ago.
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When the dog acts this way how do you react to them. Try to act excited to see them and make things fun for them. Maybe they are reading you and think they are in trouble.
Seth
answered 2 weeks ago.
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