Dog Stretching: Unveiling the Hidden Meaning!

Cozy

There's something incredibly comforting about stretching out after waking up, a feeling shared by both humans and our furry companions, the dogs.

Interestingly, even before humans domesticated dogs, they had already mastered this stretch. Wolves, before embarking on a hunt or defending their territory, would stretch a few times. This is because such stretching exercises help to elongate their muscles and improve blood circulation.

While it might seem comical, from a genetic perspective, why do all dog breeds exhibit this stretch? It's because stretching is indeed beneficial. After all, genetics is a fascinating and sometimes terrifying process, as it tends to pass down advantageous behaviors and genes, while those that are detrimental or selfharming are gradually phased out over time. Just like humans have an innate fear of the dark, which is actually a good thing for us.

Ritual

Indeed, dogs also perform this stretch during certain rituals, and one of the most notable is the act of mating. Just as the peacock displays its magnificent tail feathers to attract a mate, dogs use this stretch to showcase their strengths to potential partners.

Goodwill & Malice

Dogs also use this stretch to greet each other, but it can also serve as a warmup before an attack. Let's start with the friendly stretch. When a dog stretches, it often exhibits behaviors such as avoiding direct eye contact, having relaxed ears, and a wagging tail, as if to say, "Let's be friends!" (Whether it's with humans or other dogs.)

On the flip side, a malicious stretch might involve behaviors like locking eyes with the other dog and standing up on its hind legs, sending a message that reads, "I'm sizing you up, and I'm ready to show off my muscles."

Discomfort

Take a closer look, and you'll notice that many older dogs stretch frequently. Why is that? It's because stretching can significantly alleviate pain from conditions like back pain, arthritis, and tendinitis. In simpler terms, if an older dog is stretching a lot, it's a sign that their body might be in trouble.

Research has shown that stretching not only relieves pain from muscle fatigue but can also mitigate the discomfort caused by internal organ issues, such as pancreatitis, which is a prime example.

So, regardless of the reason, stretching is a delightful activity. Owners should reward their dogs for this behavior, adding a touch of joy to their daily lives. If a dog stretches multiple times a day, it might be wise to consult a vet, as it could be a sign that something is amiss.