Dogs are not only loyal friends and good guards, but also very cute and funny animals.
Dogs look especially touching when they tilt their heads to the side, as if trying to understand what is being said to them or what is going on around them. But why do dogs do this gesture? What does it mean in dog body language?
There are several theories that attempt to explain this phenomenon.
To hear better
Dogs have very sensitive hearing and can pick up sounds that are inaccessible to the human ear. However, in order to identify the source of a sound or understand the intonation of a voice, dogs need to move their ears a little. Tilting their heads helps them do this and better focus on what is being said to them.
To see better
Dogs not only listen to their owners, but also watch their facial expressions and gestures.
Tilting their head allows them to better see a person's face and read their emotions. Tilting their head also allows the dog to see the environment from a different angle and be more attentive to what is happening around them.
To get praise or attention
Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy being praised or petted for their behavior.
Some dogs may tilt their heads to elicit affection or sympathy from their owner and to receive affection or a treat from them. Dogs may also tilt their heads to show curiosity or interest in what is being offered to them.
Head tilt is one of the cutest and most adorable dog gestures that can mean different things depending on the context and the animal's personality. But either way, it's a sign that your dog is paying attention to you and wants to understand you better.