15 Signs Your Dog Doesn’t Like You

A Brown Dog Peeking Behind the Pink Wall while Showing It's Sharp Teeth
Photo by Marek www.boox.mx on Pexels

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, it can be difficult to tell whether our dog is comfortable and trusts us. Dogs, like people, show their emotions and feelings through body language, and it’s essential to understand the signs that can indicate your dog doesn’t feel at ease around you. Once you know what to look for, you can improve your relationship and make your dog feel safe and happy with you.

Avoidance

brown and black german shepherd
Photo by Rebecca Campbell on Unsplash

If your furry friend consistently tries to stay away from you and doesn’t want your attention or touch, it could be a sign that they feel uncomfortable or threatened. They may associate your presence with negative experiences or may not have built trust with you yet.

Growling or Snapping

white and gray wolf
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When your dog reacts defensively or aggressively by growling or snapping when you approach or try to spend time with them, it’s a clear sign that they’re feeling threatened or uncomfortable. This behavior is their way of setting boundaries and protecting themselves.

Hiding

Brown Wiener Dog Hiding Under a Bookshelf
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Dogs may frequently try to hide or find secluded spots if they don’t feel safe or at ease around their owners. They might seek out places where they can avoid encountering you or any situations that cause them anxiety or fear. Some pups even go as far as creating their own hiding spots by squeezing into tight spaces or under furniture to feel more secure and protected.

Lack of Eye Contact

Golden Retriever
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Dogs, like humans, use eye contact to establish connection and trust. If your dog consistently avoids making eye contact with you, it could be a sign that they feel uneasy or afraid. They may interpret direct eye contact as a threat or dominance, leading to their avoidance behavior.

Tail Tucking

Dog on Green Grass Field
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A dog tucking its tail between its legs is a clear indication of fear or unease. When a dog feels threatened or uncomfortable around someone, they often display this submissive posture as a way of protecting themselves. In addition to tucking their tail between their legs, dogs sometimes also crouch down or lower their body closer to the ground when feeling fearful or uneasy.

Ears Back

“And sometimes, I put Dru’s ears back just because it amuses me. #dogs #vscocam” by paulidin is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

If your dog’s ears are pinned back against its head, it’s a sign that they’re experiencing stress or anxiety. Dogs naturally raise their ears when they’re alert or interested, so when they’re pressed against the head, it suggests they’re trying to make themselves appear smaller and less noticeable.

Shaking or Trembling

“If this dog weighed more than 10lbs, I’d be scared.” by froboy is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Dogs often shake or tremble when they’re in the presence of someone they’re not comfortable with. This trembling is often a physical manifestation of fear and anxiety, indicating that your dog doesn’t feel secure or at ease around you. Understanding your dog’s body language and providing a calm and reassuring environment can help them feel safer around you.

Lip Licking

“Dog licking its lips (2010-06-20 17-03-40) SONY DSC-T700 (2592×1944)” by Nishi.LovesBees is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Excessive lip licking in dogs can be a sign of discomfort or stress. They might lick their lips when feeling anxious, trying to alleviate anxiety or as a way of signaling their uneasiness in your presence. Understanding and respecting their signals of stress can lead to creating a more comfortable and secure environment for your furry friend.

Excessive Panting

closeup photo of short-coated tan dog
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While it’s normal for dogs to pant when hot or after exercise, excessive panting when not physically active could indicate anxiety. Dogs sometimes pant heavily as a response to stress or discomfort, expressing their uneasiness around you. So, if you notice your dog panting heavily without any visible reason, it might be a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health concerns.

Lack of Playfulness

short-coat brown dog lying on blue and white striped bedspread
Photo by Ryan Stone on Unsplash

Dogs are known for their love of play, but if your dog doesn’t show interest in playing or seems disinterested in activities with you, it could suggest they’re uncomfortable in your presence. Additionally, changes in behavior like disinterest in play could be a sign of stress, anxiety, or even depression in dogs. It’s important to observe your dog’s overall behavior and look for other signs of distress or discomfort to find the root cause.

Excessive Drooling

close up photography of brown dog with tongue out
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If your dog drools excessively only when you’re around, it may be a sign of anxiety or stress. Some dogs have a natural tendency to drool more than others, but if there is a significant increase in drooling, specifically when they’re near you, it could be a result of discomfort or fear.

Turning Away

adult fawn pug sitting on couch
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When your dog consistently turns their head or body away from you when you try to engage with them, it may indicate that they’re avoiding interaction. This behavior could be a sign that they’re feeling threatened, anxious, or don’t want to engage with someone they’re not comfortable around.

Refusing Food or Treats

brown and white short coated dog on white textile
Photo by Honest Paws on Unsplash

Dogs are usually eager to eat and accept treats, but if your dog consistently refuses food or treats from you, it might be a sign of distrust or discomfort. They may associate you with negative experiences, feel intimidated by your presence, or simply not feel at ease around you.

Whining or Cowering

a dog looking at the camera
Photo by Giorgio Trovato on Unsplash

Whining or cowering in your presence can be a clear indication that your dog feels fearful or intimidated. These behaviors are their way of expressing their unease or seeking safety from perceived threats or uncomfortable situations. They can be caused by past negative experiences, lack of socialization, or a general lack of trust in their environment.

Aggression

“Aggressive Dog” by Mr.TinDC is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

If your dog shows clear signs of aggression towards you, such as barking, snarling, or biting, it’s a serious indication that they’re feeling extremely uncomfortable or threatened. Aggressive behavior is a defensive response, and it’s crucial to seek professional help to address and manage this behavior safely.

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