Why Do Dogs Put Their Ears Back?

I always wondered “Why are my dogs ears back” & then the reasons have made me surprised.

I got to know that dog ears back meaning that they want to tell us something.

Dogs put their ears back to show fear, or anxiety, signaling to other dogs or humans that they are feeling uncomfortable or threatened in a situation. 

It is an instinct for dogs to protect themselves when feeling vulnerable.

15 Reasons Why Do Dogs Put Their Ears Back?

We’ve to understand dog ear expressions because they show many emotional states or responses to their environment. Here are 15 reasons why dogs ears back.

1. Submission

Dogs often put their ears back when they’re showing submissive behavior towards another dog or person.

This is a way of signaling that they are not a threat & acknowledging the other as dominant.

2. Fear

When a dog feels scared or threatened, it may pull its ears back to protect them & make itself appear smaller.

This is often accompanied by other signs of fear such as cowering, tail tucking, or shivering.

3. Anxiety

Dogs might put their ears back because of anxiety or stress. This can be in response to a specific stressor, such as a loud noise or an unfamiliar environment.

So, it’s necessary to understand the dog ear language.

4. Uncertainty

Dogs might put their ears back when they are unsure of a situation or how to react.

This can be a sign that they are trying to assess the environment & figure out how to proceed which makes it important for us to know the dog ear position meaning.

5. Guilt or Shame

If a dog knows it has done something it shouldn’t have, such as chewing on a shoe or making a mess, it might put its ears back as a sign of guilt or shame, especially if it perceives that its owner is upset.

6. Attention Seeking

Sometimes, dogs put their ears back when they want attention.

They might combine this with other behaviors like pawing at you or nudging you with their nose.

7. Listening Intently

Dogs can put their ears back to better focus on a sound coming from behind them or listen to something that might be of interest or concern.

8. Submission During Play

During play, dogs might put their ears back to show that they are being submissive & non-threatening to their playmate.

This helps to keep the play friendly & non-aggressive.

9. Affection

When dogs are affectionate, they might put their ears back, especially when they are nuzzling or seeking close contact with their owners or other dogs.

So, you’ve to understand why is your dogs ears pinned back.

10. Discomfort

If a dog is experiencing discomfort or pain, it might pull its ears back.

This can happen in response to an injury or illness, or even when they are being groomed or touched in a sensitive area.

11. Preparation for a Fight or Flight Response

In some cases, dogs put their ears back as part of the fight or flight response, getting ready to either defend themselves or flee from a threat.

12. Submission to Authority

Dogs might put their ears back in the presence of a more dominant dog or human to show respect & acknowledge the other’s higher status.

13. Greeting Another Dog or Person

When greeting another dog or person, a dog might put its ears back as a friendly gesture, indicating that it poses no threat & is open to interaction.

For this reason, the dog puts ears back when happy.

14. Protecting Their Ears

In situations where there is a danger, dogs might pull their ears back to protect them from injury, it is like a defensive action.

15. Physical Reasons

Sometimes, dogs put their ears back for practical reasons, such as to avoid wind, rain, or debris, or because they are grooming or shaking their heads.

Tips For Helping A Dog Feel More Comfortable

Some tips for helping a dog feel more comfortable are creating a safe space for your dog, sticking to a routine, giving enough exercise & mental stimulation, respecting your dog’s boundaries, build trust & bonding with your dog.

• Create a safe space for your dog: Set up a comfortable area for your dog with their bed, favorite toys & blankets where they can retreat when they need some alone time.

• Stick to a routine: Try to stick to a regular schedule for feeding, walking & playtime. This will help your dog feel more secure & comfortable in their environment.

• Give enough exercise & mental stimulation: Dogs need regular exercise & mental stimulation to stay happy & healthy. Make sure to take your dog for daily walks, engage in playtime & provide them with interactive toys to keep their minds busy.

• Use positive reinforcement: When helping your dog feel more comfortable in certain situations, use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise & affection to help them associate positive feelings with the experience.

• Respect your dog’s boundaries: Every dog is different, so be mindful of your dog’s body language & signals to determine when they may need space or when they are ready to interact with you or others.

• Build trust & bond with your dog: Spend quality time with your dog, engage in bonding activities & establish trust with them. This will help your dog feel more secure & comfortable in your presence.

• Expose your dog to new experiences: If your dog is feeling anxious or uncomfortable in certain situations, introduce them to new experiences at their own pace to help them adjust & feel more comfortable.

• Consult with a professional: If your dog is showing signs of fear or anxiety that you are unable to address on your own, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for guidance & support.

Also Read:

Why Shih Tzu Are The Worst Dog?

Best Dogs For First Time Owners

Best Dog Breeds in India

Best Small Dog Breeds in India With Price

Banned Dog Breeds in India

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding “why dogs put their ears back” helps us interpret their emotions.

By recognizing this body language, we can support them better, create a healthy environment & strengthen our bond.

Positive reinforcement, routines, boundaries, trust & professional help when needed are important for addressing behavioral concerns.

FAQs