Why Do Dogs Nudge?

Just because your dog can't actually talk, it does not mean he cannot communicate with you. Most people know enough about basic dog communication to understand a wagging tail is normally a sign of happiness, while growling or baring teeth is a sign of canine aggression. Nudging is a more subtle means of communication that dogs use. Nudges can have several meanings.

  1. Let's Be Friends

    • Nudging is almost always a friendly gesture. Nudging is most commonly a gesture performed by a submissive dog to the dominant dog or human as part of a display of passivity. Passive dogs may nudge dominant animals and humans on the hip, rear or muzzle.

    Attention

    • Dogs will nudge their owners or other humans as a form of communicating a desire. Dogs will often nudge items they want you to pay attention to, such as a ball or an empty food or water dish. Dogs may also nudge people when they want attention from that person.

    More, Please!

    • Anyone who has ever petted or scratched a dog, stopped and immediately been nudged by the dog can probably figure out that the dog wants you to resume the petting or scratching. Dogs often nudge when they want more of something.

    Herding

    • Some dogs are bred specifically to herd other animals. In a farm situation, you may see these types of dogs herding livestock using a variety of gestures, including barks, nudges and bumps. In a household environment, herding dogs tend to herd people, especially children, using many of the same methods.