What Does It Mean When a Dog Is Totally Sprawled Out?

If you're sprawled out on the couch, you're probably having the time of your life, decompressing from a long day and reading a riveting mystery novel. For dogs, the position doesn't always have the same relaxed undertones. It is often a sign of humility in the canine realm.

  1. Deference

    • When you assume that a sprawled-out dog is comfy, you're thinking like a human rather than a canine. If you're a dog and show your belly with all your limbs pointing in different directions, you're being modest and meek rather than assertive and confident. The position is one of deference for pooches -- one that communicates a message of obedience and compliance. Dogs frequently assume this position when they're in fearful and anxiety-inducing situations -- say they're faced with another canine that they find extremely intimidating and strong. The "sprawled out" behavior is often accompanied by tiny dribbles of urination. Submissive urination is an attempt at placation -- and a wish to avoid confrontation and danger.

    Uneasiness

    • If your dog is on his back, it also might mean the poor thing feels uneasy or upset about something. The pooch just might not be comfortable with things at the moment, most likely due to fear, confusing changes or tension in his surrounding environment. It might even be a request for some personal space, notes the Rancho Coastal Humane Society.

    Coziness

    • Confusingly enough, a totally sprawled-out pet might be in a cozy, serene and happy-go-lucky mood. He might even be cutely and not-so-coyly suggesting you take a few minutes out of your evening to rub his belly. Look for hints of canine happiness so you can distinguish this type of sprawling out from the nervous, fearful or submissive kind. Some typical signs of content doggies are mouths that are just a little parted, loose muscles and ears that are pointing upward.

    Confidence in You

    • When dogs' bodies are totally sprawled out, especially when they're fast asleep, it sometimes means they're totally confident that your presence is a trustworthy one. Dogs are actually in rather fragile stances when they're on their backs showing their bellies to the world -- hardly the ideal position for quickly and efficiently escaping danger. By assuming this position, a dog could be saying to you something like, "I'm aware that you're a swell person. There's no need for me to be on guard around you. I trust you a lot."