Snarling then licks? Hello All, My wife and I just recently rescued a Yorkie from a shelter. His behavior in general is pretty good. However, when he jumps on my lap or rolls on his back he shows his teeth. I interpret the wrinkling nose and teeth showing as a snarl, but he then licks me. I'm not sure what to make of this and was hoping someone with more experience might be able to shed some light. Thanks! |
He could be smiling...:D Seriously, is there anyway you could make a video of him doing this? It is to difficult to really tell. He is being submissive by rolling on his back so I am not sure exactly what is going on. |
Hi and Welcome to YT!!! and Congratulations on your new pup! Sounds like he's smiling! Is he growling at all when he does this? Anyway, that wouldn't make sense. It's definitely a friendly gesture on his part, or a bite would follow, not a lick! Next thing to do is say 'Smile' when he does it so he'll learn to do it on cue! Also. how old is he? |
OMG! Bailey makes all kinds of noises - esp. growling! Its all play with Bailey - there's not a mean bone in her body. I fear that some could misinterpret her growl for meanness - but that is not the case here. When Bailey plays - she gets this onery look in her eyes and when I touch her she stiffens up and growls (no teeth, tho). Then I release, she stops. I touch again, she growls - it goes on and on. Anyhow, I agree, if a kiss follows a growl - then its probably play. |
It sounds like he is just smiling at you. Yorkies are known for this. Mine do this and I have even taught them to "smile" on command. They usually do it when they want attention/affection which sounds like your little guy. |
I believe he is smiling too.:)I had a lab years ago that would do exactly the same thing. |
No he's not smiling That is a sign of submission in dog language The snarl when they come to you or esp when they roll on their back happens when they feel they are threatened either from another higher ranking dog or human Then the licking is the final submission So it's not surprising that this behavior is coming from a shelter dog |
Our little boy always 'smiles' when we come home and he is excited to see us. Blessing for adopting a rescue. |
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Now, if the OP stated that the dog cowers down then rolls on his back and snarls- then yes, that is a submissive and threatened disposition. If the OP believes the the dog's behavior is submission/threatened related - then building a solid and confident relatioinship over time should help. If you don't notice an improvement - then contact a professional trainer for some one-on-one observation/training. Your vet can probably recommend someone. Good luck! :) |
I think some posters are referring to a "submissive grin." If you can get video, or check out the pictures and characteristics that define a submissive grin, it would probably help. If he is approaching you as you describe, he is probably just showing exaggerated deference to you because of past experiences. My little guy is super-submissive, and he licks his lips a lot. I can always hear him coming, because he's smacking his lips so loud. I think that's partly just the way he is. I also try not to pressure him in dog language - I generally do not approach him, or lean over him, or make a lot of direct eye contact. If it is a submissive grin, your dog may get more comfortable over time. There are also other signs that show a dog is relaxed. Those included relaxed muscles, blinking eyes, and a slightly opened mouth. If your dog is acting relaxed, I wouldn't worry about the submissive behavior. |
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