Why do dogs yawn all the time? The vet answers

Have you noticed that your dog yawns often? You are not alone! Now you can find out if it's just fatigue or something more.

If you have a dog in the house, you’ve probably witnessed him yawning with his mouth wide open in a spectacular display. In fact, you’ve most likely got the impression that he seems to yawn a lot. This begs the question: why does the dog yawn all the time? For the same reason as humans? And if not, should you be worried about it?

That’s why people yawn

Before we get to the dog’s behaviour, it’s worth clarifying why the human is yawning.
Although scientists have not yet been able to fully explain the phenomenon, it is thought that fatigue is just the tip of the iceberg

Yawning stretches the jaw and increases blood flow to the head, neck and face.

Researchers have also observed that yawning involves taking in more air than a normal breath, which increases the pressure that causes cerebrospinal fluid and blood to flow down from the brain. This is theorised to cool the brain, as well as the rest of the body. Yawning can also serve to stretch facial muscles, which can help you wake up when you’re tired or bored. Dogs probably yawn for similar reasons as we do. But that’s not all!

This is what yawning can mean in a dog

According to veterinarian Dr Andrea Bodó, yawning is often a sign of fatigue in dogs – especially when accompanied by flat glances and wagging manoeuvres.

At the same time, yawning can also act as a calming signal among dogs, which can send the message that “everything is fine, peace is at hand.

In other cases, yawning is a sign of excitement. And if it’ s accompanied by stretching, it can show that the dog is getting ready for something in body and mind – for example, a walk on a lead. Yawning can also be observed during stressful situations, as a kind of substitute action to relieve tension.

According to the vet, the dog’s body tenses and its tail tucks.

Usually there is no need to worry about if your dog yawns

According to experts, yawning is not a cause for particular concern, except if you notice that your dog is doing it more than usual.

For example, a puppy may be experiencing stress or anxiety because of sudden changes in his environment, or just a general feeling of insecurity.

In response, the vet may suggest solutions thatcan reduce stressand improve the dog’s well-being.