Dogs may sneeze when they are excited, happy, or showing submission to other dogs, for example. If your dog's sneezing seems to happen most often when they're excited about a walk or greeting you at the door, then there likely isn't any cause for concern.
Many dogs like to sneeze when they play with other dogs or humans. This “play sneezing” is normal and something dogs use to show that they are excited and having a good time.
There is some research that shows dogs can “fake” sneezes to communicate a desire to play or to seek attention. Of course, not all sneezes are fun and games and some dogs will sneeze due to a cold or allergy. Playful sneezes are more like a snort and come from the nose, not the lungs.
According to dog behaviorist and trainer Katherine Smith, the sneeze is a dog's signal to the other dog that a rowdy dance/fight play sesh is strictly play– so both dogs know it's all in good fun. The sneeze is a mark of when your dog “is really loving what you're doing.”
"So maybe the dog feels amused or puzzled and laughs off the strange-to-him gesture." Sneezing can also be used as an appeasement signal. Bottom line, these actions are likely your dog's way of asking you to please stop with the kisses. But don't take it personally!
When you kiss your dog, you may notice signs that indicate they know that the kiss is a gesture of affection. As puppies, this is not something that dogs would recognize, although they would feel you doing it. However, as they get older they associate the kisses and cuddles with you being happy with them.
Generally speaking, dogs sneeze as an involuntary response to protect their airway and clear out unwanted dust, bacteria and the like. If your pup is sneezing up a storm and they aren't in the presence of other dogs, they may have gotten something stuck up their nose that they are trying to dislodge.
Play sneezing
When a dog gets excited they often run around, backside close to the ground. They curl their lips, displaying their teeth. The activity and funny faces cause slight irritation in the nose which can cause sneezing.
Growling during play does not mean your dog is aggressive. It simply means they're having a great time. Your dog might even growl during a particularly pleasing cuddle or patting session. Many dogs growl talk to communicate contentment or as a greeting.
Most of the time dogs sigh when they are sleeping or are feeling relaxed. However, sometimes dogs will also sigh when they are bored or upset about something. Of course, dogs will sigh if they have learned that sighing gets their owner's attention.
Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. This chemical plays an important role in bonding and boosts feelings of love and trust.
In the language of dogs, the yawn is often used as a calming signal. It's a way of saying, I've had enough and my patience is running out. For example, in a training session, your dog may yawn to deal with frustration and to give himself a mental break.
Canines are empathetic creatures. If you sneeze, cry, or jump up and down with joy, your dog is going to react because they adore you and know your every move. They want to experience life with you. You are their leader that provides them with everything from love to food.
Many dog owners notice that dogs often sneeze when they are playing or excited by something. This is called “play sneezing” and it's normal and harmless. It just means that your dog is having loads of fun! Dogs sneeze when playing to signal that their behaviour is only play, and that they're enjoying themselves.
Your dog might sneeze when they come into contact with a strong smell, but they may also be anxious. In addition to sneezing, a dog may cough as a way of releasing the built-up stress they're feeling.
However, a dog's saliva and pathogens can be absorbed more easily through the mucous membranes of a person's nose, mouth and eyes. Though illnesses transmitted this way are rare, Dr. Kaplan said it was best to avoid having your dog lick those parts of your face.
One of the most common reasons why dogs love to lick their owners is simply to show their affection. Since you're the one taking care of them, you're essentially their world! When dogs lick, pleasurable endorphins are released into their blood which makes them feel calm and comforted.
Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy or because you taste good to them! Excessive licking can sometimes be a sign that your dog is anxious, uncomfortable or in pain.
Dogs need roughage in their diets and grass is a good source of fiber. A lack of roughage affects the dog's ability to digest food and pass stool, so grass may actually help their bodily functions run more smoothly.
Dogs will usually sleep 12-14 hours spread throughout the day, with puppies clocking in even more hours of slumber. In fact, it's not uncommon for a dog to sleep up to 20 hours a day in their first few months of life. Sleep allows the body to recharge and repair, so it's important to let your pet enjoy their downtime.
Dog communication uses most of the senses, including smells, sounds and visual cues. Pheromones, glandular secretions, barks, whines, yips, growls, body postures, etc., all serve as effective means of communication between dogs.
Experts in dog behavior believe that, in general, dogs do not like being embraced. However, every dog has a unique personality. Some may dislike hugs more strongly than others, and some may actually adore them. The closest thing our furry family members do to a hug is something referred to as 'standing over'.
Do dogs like it when you talk to them? Of course they do! Talking to your dog might seem one-sided, but you don't need a verbal response to know chatting with your furry best friend is a good idea.
Yes, your dog knows how much you love him! Dogs and humans have a very special relationship, where dogs have hijacked the human oxytocin bonding pathway normally reserved for our babies. When you stare at your dog, both your oxytocin levels go up, the same as when you pet them and play with them.