One canine behavior that is often overlooked is yawning. Many dog owners may wonder why their dog yawns so much and what it means. While yawning is often associated with tiredness or boredom in humans, it can actually be a sign of nervousness, stress and conflicting feelings in canines.
Since many dogs yawn when feeling anxious or stressed, it may help to put their calming beds where you’ve established they feel safest. Snuffle mats can also be a valuable tool for boredom-related yawning.
Other instances of excessive yawning may require assistance from an animal behaviorist. We have looked into the books Behavioral Problems of the Dog and Cat and Canine Behavior Insights for a complete breakdown of dog yawning.
So, Why Does My Dog Yawn So Much?
Unlike humans, dogs don’t yawn when they are tired. Canine yawning is primarily a stress signal. Many dogs also yawn when uncertain about something such as new people or environments. Additionally, boredom and health problems, like dental or respiratory issues, can cause excessive yawning. If a dog’s yawning seems unusual or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to take them to a vet.
Yawning is similar to other subtle signs of emotional discomfort and uncertainty, like the whale eye, stretching and licking lips after being petted. These signs are subtle because they are easy to either miss or dismiss because they’re not as outright as whining or tucking in the tail.
Overall, excessive yawning in dogs can be caused by various factors. By identifying the cause of your dog’s excessive yawning, you can take steps to help them feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Understanding Dog Yawning
Yawning is a natural behavior in dogs. You can break down yawning into two major groups, physiological or psychological.
Physiological Reasons
When a pupy yawns, it increases blood flow to the brain, helping with alertness. This is common as a dog transitions from sleepiness to wakefulness and vice versa.
Yawning also helps to stretch the muscles in the jaw and neck, which can help to relieve tension and reduce stress.
Another physiological reason why dogs yawn is due to boredom. Just like humans, dogs can become bored, and yawning can be a way for them to stimulate their bodies and brains. However, boredom is a less likely cause of yawning compared to stress and uncertainty.
Psychological Reasons
Dogs can also yawn due to what they’re feeling, which are psychological reasons. Yawning can be a sign of stress or anxiety in dogs. When a dog is stressed or anxious, they may yawn to calm themselves down.
Pay attention to the context in which your dog is yawning to determine the reason behind it. If your dog is yawning excessively and for no apparent reason, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue, and you should consult your veterinarian.
Let’s get deeper into these broad categories of yawning in dogs.
Common Causes of Excessive Yawning
Here are some of the most common causes of excessive dog yawning:
1. Dogs Are Uncertain About Something
When a dog is uncertain about something, they may yawn to communicate their discomfort or unease. This can happen in various situations, such as meeting new people or animals, being in a new environment, or encountering an unfamiliar object.
A dog may also yawn due to conflicted feelings. For example, a dog loves their owner but doesn’t understand why they don’t want to be around them at the moment. It’s essential to pay attention to your dog’s body language and behavior when they yawn.
A dog yawning due to uncertainty often displays other subtle signs like stretching and shaking. This Labrador is a perfect example of conflicted yawning. Notice how he stretches after yawning.
2. Boredom or Lack of Exercise:
Dogs that are bored or don’t get enough exercise may yawn excessively as a way to relieve stress or pent-up energy. Providing more mental and physical stimulation can help reduce yawning in these cases.
3. They Are Anxious About A Person, Situation, Or Other Dog
When dogs are stressed or anxious, they may yawn excessively. This is because yawning allows dogs to release tension and calm themselves down. The yawn is often accompanied by an “aaaa . . .” sound that increases in pitch.
Studies show a positive relationship between signs of stress and anxiety. It also showed that oxytocin pretreatment reduced the number of yawns in a dog. This means that dogs already in a happy state had less yawning, so yawning often has to do with negative feelings.
Some everyday situations that can cause anxiety in dogs include:
- Meeting new people or animals;
- Going to the vet;
- Being left alone for extended periods; and
- Loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks.
You can interpret anxiety-related yawning in dogs through their body language. An anxious dog will smack their lips, pin their ears back, and even give you the side eye. It’s best to work towards eliminating the stressor whenever possible.
4. They Want Something or are Trying to Say Something
One important thing to understand is that yawning is often a communication signal. Dogs use yawning to convey various messages to their owners and other dogs. Your dog may want to go outside or get some food, so they yawn when they are struggling to communicate their needs, which is causing a degree of stress.
Other dogs simply want to engage with their owners or get attention. Yawning to communicate typically starts as a whine or a bark and transitions into a yawn, like this screaming Bernese.
5. They Don’t Understand A Command Or Cue
Dogs sometimes yawn when they don’t understand what is being asked of them. When a dog is confused, they may yawn to communicate their discomfort or frustration.
For example, if a dog is being trained to sit and the owner is using a hand gesture that the dog doesn’t understand, the dog may yawn to signal that they are unsure of what is being asked of them. This is particularly common in dogs new to training or who have not yet learned a particular cue.
If a dog is yawning frequently during training sessions, it may be helpful to take a step back and reassess the training approach. The owner can try breaking down the command into smaller steps or using a different cue with which the dog is more familiar.
Being patient and understanding with a dog struggling to understand a command is essential. Punishing the dog for not following a command they don’t understand will only increase their anxiety and confusion. Instead, owners should focus on positive reinforcement and reward the dog when they progress in their training.
6. They Can’t Solve A Problem
When dogs are in a stressful situation, they may yawn excessively to calm themselves down. This is especially true when faced with a problem they can’t solve.
For example, if a dog is trapped in a room and can’t find a way out, they may yawn excessively to cope with their stress and frustration. Similarly, if a dog is trying to learn a new trick or behavior and is struggling to understand what their owner wants them to do, they may yawn to release their tension.
7. They Feel Intruded On
Dogs are social animals and need their own space and time to relax. When they feel intruded on, they may yawn to communicate their discomfort or stress about an invasion of their space. This is true if you notice your dog yawning anytime you come too close to them and invade their personal space in a way that makes them uncomfortable.
8. They Feel Conflicted Or Ambiguous
Dogs may yawn excessively when they feel conflicted or ambiguous about something. For instance, if a stranger is approaching a dog, the dog may yawn to indicate that they are unsure how to react.
Other behaviors may also indicate a dog’s inner conflict. For example, a dog may lick their lips or nose when unsure about a situation. This behavior is often seen as submissive, but a licking motion where the tongue curls back to touch the nose shows ambivalence.
Yawning or stretching before an active approach may also convey this message. If a dog is about to do something they are unsure about, they may yawn or stretch to release some of the tension they are feeling.
Paying attention to a dog’s body language and behavior is vital to understanding their emotions. If a dog is yawning excessively or displaying other signs of inner conflict, it may be a sign that they need some space or reassurance. By being aware of these behaviors, owners can help their dogs feel more comfortable and confident in different situations.
9. Yawning Because You Are
Dogs may yawn when humans do, a behavior often associated with contagious yawning. This phenomenon suggests that dogs might mimic human yawns. It was previously believed that dogs engaged in yawning contagion to express empathy and bonding.
However, numerous studies prove that contagious yawning in dogs does not show bonding. This is because the dogs in the study yawned even when mimicking a random stranger they’ve not bonded with.
10. Medical Conditions That Cause Excessive Yawning
Excessive yawning in dogs can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Some medical conditions that can cause excessive yawning in dogs include pain and Respiratory Issues.
Respiratory Issues
Respiratory issues can also cause excessive yawning in dogs. Dogs with respiratory issues may yawn more frequently to increase oxygen intake. Some respiratory issues that can cause excessive yawning in dogs include:
- Asthma;
- Bronchitis; and
- Pneumonia.
Other symptoms of respiratory issues in dogs include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your dog has a respiratory issue, it is vital to take them to the vet for an evaluation. Treatment for respiratory issues in dogs may include medication, oxygen therapy, or surgery.
Pain
Yawning can help alleviate some of the tension and stress associated with pain, and it can also be a subconscious attempt to release endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers. Dogs in pain may also lick their paws, and you’ll possibly observe limping, wounds, or energy changes.
11. Calming Or Appeasement Signals
Dogs may also yawn as a way of showing submission. This is often seen in puppies trying to appease older dogs or in dogs trying to avoid conflict with other dogs. Yawning can be a way of saying, “I’m not a threat; please don’t hurt me.” This is typically seen in dog-on-dog interactions and play instead of those with humans.
How to Respond to Your Dog’s Excessive Yawning
If your dog is yawning excessively, it is important to respond appropriately to ensure their health and well-being. Here are some tips on how to respond to your dog’s excessive yawning:
Observe Your Dog’s Behavior
Pay attention to when your dog is yawning and what is happening around them. Are they tired or stressed? Are they trying to communicate something to you? Watch out for stressed body language like restlessness and pinned ears.
Safe Space
One way to help dogs cope with anxiety is to provide them with a safe space to retreat when they feel overwhelmed. This could be a crate, a cozy bed, or a quiet room where they can relax and feel secure.
Positive Reinforcement
Another helpful strategy is to use positive reinforcement to help the dog associate the stressful situation with something positive. For example, if a dog is anxious about going to the vet, the owner could bring along some treats or a favorite toy to help distract and comfort the dog during the visit.
Check for Other Symptoms
Excessive yawning can indicate an underlying health issue, so it is vital to check for other symptoms, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing.
Consult a Veterinarian
If you suspect your dog’s excessive yawning is due to a health issue, it is essential to consult a veterinarian. They can perform a physical exam and run tests to determine the underlying cause.
When to Consult a Vet About Your Dog’s Yawning
If a dog is yawning excessively, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. In some cases, the cause of excessive yawning may be benign, but in other cases, it may be a sign of a more severe health issue. If a dog owner notices their dog is yawning excessively and has other signs like tiredness, vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite changes, they should consult a veterinarian.
There are several reasons why a dog may be yawning excessively, including stress, anxiety, boredom, and fatigue. In some cases, excessive yawning may be a sign of a medical condition such as hypothyroidism, liver disease, or heart disease. In addition, certain medications can cause excessive yawning as a side effect.
If a dog owner notices that their dog is yawning excessively and there is no apparent reason for it, such as being tired or bored, they should consult a veterinarian. The veterinarian can perform a physical exam and run diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the excessive yawning.
If the cause of the excessive yawning is due to a medical condition, the veterinarian can prescribe medication or recommend other treatments to help manage the condition. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as reducing stress or increasing exercise may be recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do dogs yawn excessively?
Dogs yawn for various reasons, such as to communicate with their owners, relieve stress, or relax. However, excessive yawning in dogs can indicate an underlying health problem like pain, thyroid issues, and respiratory problems.
What are the causes of excessive yawning in dogs?
Various factors, including anxiety, stress, boredom, pain, or medication side effects, can cause excessive yawning in dogs. It can also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as liver disease or heart failure.
Is excessive yawning in dogs a sign of a health problem?
Excessive yawning in dogs can be a sign of an underlying health problem. If your dog is yawning excessively, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. You’ll also notice accompanying signs like weakness, appetite loss, and vomiting.
How can I tell if my dog’s yawning is excessive?
If your dog is yawning more frequently than usual or in situations they normally wouldn’t, it may be a sign of excessive yawning. Additionally, if your dog exhibits other symptoms, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting, it is essential to consult your veterinarian.
What can I do to reduce my dog’s excessive yawning?
Reducing your dog’s excessive yawning will depend on the underlying cause. If it is due to stress or anxiety, providing your dog with a safe and comfortable environment can help. Exercise and mental stimulation can also help reduce stress and boredom in dogs.
Are there any home remedies for excessive yawning in dogs?
While there are no specific home remedies for excessive yawning in dogs, providing your dog with a healthy diet and regular exercise can help improve their overall health and reduce stress. Additionally, spending quality time with your dog and providing them with mental stimulation can also help reduce excessive yawning.
Final Thoughts
Yawning is a natural behavior for dogs and can have various meanings depending on the context in which it occurs. While it is often associated with relaxation, it can also indicate stress, anxiety, or even excitement.
If your dog yawns excessively or in unusual situations, it may be a sign that they are experiencing discomfort or distress. In such cases, it is important to observe your dog’s body language and behavior to determine the underlying cause and address it accordingly.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.