Signs of a Submissive Dog

Signs of submission in dogs can mean different things. A dog that submits to you and knows you are in charge is desirable. Temperament, however, is different than behavior. A dog exhibiting submissive behavior is often in an unhealthy state. Knowing why your dog is displaying this behavior is the first step to helping it overcome its fear and stress. The main causes of submissive behavior in dogs are abuse and lack of socialization.

  1. Stress

    • A dog that lives in a submissive state exhibits certain signs even when nothing specific is distressing it. Its tail is tucked between its legs, its ears are flat against its head and its overall posture is lowered. The dog may avoid eye contact and pant quickly with the corners of its mouth pulled back. This gesture with its mouth is not the same as an aggressive snarl, in which the dog lifts its lips to expose its front teeth.

    Worry

    • A worried dog will also keep its tail down between its hind legs, its ears back and its body lowered. The dog may make intermittent eye contact in an attempt to appease the individual it perceives as dominant or threatening. These signs of passive submission are combined with active submission gestures including a raised paw and licking the face of the threatening individual. A worried dog may expose the back of its mouth. Submissive urination may accompany a dog in this state.

    Fear

    • When a dog is afraid, the tucked tail and flattened ears are often combined with rolling onto its back, revealing its belly and throat. The exposure of these sensitive areas expresses the dog's submission to the cause of its fear. The dog's eyes may be partly closed while its head is turned away to avoid eye contact. Submissive urination may occur. All of this reflects a total surrender to the perceived threat. Do not confuse a dog "submitting" when playing with another dog as submissive behavior. Rolling on its back is a natural part of play within the species.

    Handling the Behavior

    • If your dog displays any of these signs of submission when someone leans down to pet it or speaks harshly to it, there's a good chance the dog suffered abuse at some point. Immediately step away from the dog if you are trying to pet or touch it. Lower yourself to the dog's level and allow it to come to you. This might take several attempts before the dog is comfortable enough to approach you. When it does come to you, give it a treat rather than pet it. As the dog more readily approaches you, pet it gently under its chin. Give a quick pet at first and follow up with a treat. Even as the dog becomes comfortable with your petting it, advise visitors how to handle the situation to avoid relapses. A dog that becomes submissive when you make eye contact with it might not have been properly socialized as a puppy. Expose your dog to other people and animals slowly and in a safe and controlled environment. Reward it for calm behavior. Never punish your dog for submissive urination.