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Dogs are strange. Perhaps hilarious and strange. For a moment, they are dozing off. Next, zooming like their tails were on fire. They bare the invisible, spin before lying down, giving them the look that says, “I know what you did.” These strange habits may raise you question their sanity (or yours), but most of the time they actually have solid, ancient accounts. Rooted in the instincts, communication and behavior given to you by your wolf ancestors, your dog’s quirks are surprisingly logical twists, not random, but more natural approval nonsense.
Rotate in a circle before lying down
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Don’t worry while shaking some yokes before your dog settles into the bed like a furry tornado. They haven’t lost it. This behavior goes back to wild ancestors circled to smack grass, leaves and snow and create a more comfortable and safe sleeping spot. It was also a way to check the environment for snakes and other creatures. Your dog is now dozing off in a gorgeous bed, but those instincts are still alive and well. Yes, your dog is a certain interior decorator, some security specialist.
Chasing their tails
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It’s hilarious to see a dog chase its own tail. Until they do it straight for 10 minutes, and you begin to wonder if your dog has an existential crisis. Tail tracing can be a sign of boredom, pent-up energy, or simply playfulness, especially in puppies. However, in some cases, chasing the tail of an obsession can also show anxiety, obsessive behavior, or even fleas. It’s fun to watch, but if it gets frequent, I recommend taking your puppies to the vet to make sure their spiral of stupidity is not a cry for help.
Eat grass
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Grass isn’t exactly in the pyramids of dog food, but many dogs whip like gourmet salads. This may seem strange, but eating grass is actually quite normal. Some dogs do it to help with digestion or to induce vomiting if their stomach is upset. Others may prefer the taste or texture, and they are simply bored and want something. This behavior is usually harmless unless your dog grazes like a cow all day, or gets sick from it.
Kick after poop
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You saw it: your dog finishes their business and then dramatically kicks the dirt like they’re trying to cover it, or challenge someone to a duel. This is not an attempt at cleaning up. It’s actually a scented behaviour. Dogs have scent glands on their legs, and kicking movements help spread unique smells around the area to assert territory. It’s like leaving a calling card saying, “I was here, this is my patch.” So when your dog fills up ninjas in the grass, they are not only dramatic, they are artists of small territory.
The tilt of the head
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The adorable head tilt is a classic “AWW” moment, but it’s more than just a photo shoot. When the dog tilts its head, they are trying to understand what you are saying, or find the source of the sound. Their ears are energized, and their tilt helps identify specific tones and interpret audio cues. In particular, when using words, they recognize them as “treatment,” “walk,” and “where did you place your socks?” It is also a way to show involvement and curiosity. When your dog tilts it, they are not confused – they may judge your pronunciation, perhaps you are judged.
Roll something with a smell
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Ruin your dog-like lovely walk. So in Gross, this behavior has roots in wild ancestors. Rolling a strong smell might have been a way for wolves to hide their scent before hunting or tell where they were. Dogs may also be trying to bring the exciting smell back to the pack. It’s not a perfume choice you approve of, but in your dog’s mind, they upgraded their cologne to “Oh de Deadworm.”
I’m sleeping with my butt facing you
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It may feel like an insult when your dog stops their rear end straight after your dog has your face straight, but you should not take it personally. This is actually a sign of trust and security. Your dog feels safe to turn his back on you. Because they trust you to see their six while you doze off. In dog language, this positioning is “I have your back. You have mine.” Or your dog is carefully saving your morning breathing. Choose the version that makes you feel most loved.
It twitches while sleeping
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Don’t wake up if your dog is convulsing, paddles his legs, or make small, eerie noises while he sleeps. You probably dream. Dogs experience REM sleep just like humans, and at that stage the brain is active, which can cause physical movement. Puppies and senior dogs are more twitching as their sleep cycles become more intense. What do they dream of? Perhaps chasing squirrels, rolling mud, or eating endless snacks. It’s a Netflix and chill version, but it waggles its tail.
I lean on you
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The dog leaning against you like a furry, live weighted blanket, isn’t trying to crush your ribs. It’s an indication of love, comfort and connection. Rain is a sign of trust and bonding, especially when dogs seek frequent physical contact. It is also a way to find peace of mind, especially in unfamiliar situations. Some larger breeds are famous for this and essentially become dog wrap dogs. When your dog leaned forward, they are not clinging. They are just giving you a full body embrace.
They’re not strange, they’re unique on just one leg
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Dogs are fun and weird, and that’s exactly part of their appeal. From the tilt of their heads to the grass kick plays, their quirks aren’t random. They are rooted in instinct, communication, and ancient dog logic. Understanding the methods behind their insanity makes all the strange behavior a little more interesting and meaningful. So, the next time your puppy goes into a circle or barks on a ramp, there is probably a reason. What if not? They probably just have you on your toes… and surprise you is part of the fun too.
