Understanding Why Dogs Put Their Ears Back
Dogs communicate using a rich tapestry of body language, and one of the most telling parts of their body is their ears. Whether erect, floppy, or sharply alert, a dog’s ears can speak volumes. One behavior that often piques pet owners’ curiosity is when their dog pulls its ears far back against the head. Let’s delve into what this behavior means and why it’s so significant in canine communication.
The Role of Ear Position in Canine Communication
A dog’s ears are highly expressive. Depending on the breed, they can move them in different directions, and these subtle shifts provide clues about their internal state. When ears are pulled back, particularly flat against the head, dogs often do this to indicate:
- Submission or appeasement: A dog that feels intimidated or is being submissive may flatten its ears to signal that it poses no threat.
- Fear or anxiety: Fearful dogs will often retract their ears, coupled with other signs like tail-tucking, shivering, or cowering.
- Affection or contentment: In calmer settings, dogs might pull their ears back when they’re relaxed and enjoying attention from their human.
- Pain or discomfort: If a dog is injured or unwell, ear flattening might be a sign of distress or discomfort.
Emotional States Reflected Through Ears
Dogs are emotional creatures, and their ears are often one of the first indicators of how they’re feeling.
1. Fear: A fearful dog typically lowers its body, tucks in the tail, and flattens its ears. This can occur during thunderstorms, vet visits, or unfamiliar encounters.
2. Submission: In the presence of a more dominant dog or human, a dog may pull its ears back while avoiding eye contact and perhaps even rolling over. This gesture aims to calm the situation and show respect.
3. Calmness: If ears are gently pulled back and the dog has soft eyes and a relaxed body, this could signal tranquility. It’s commonly seen during petting or during rest.
4. Aggression in disguise: Though rarer, some dogs might pull their ears back while preparing for a more aggressive action. This is usually accompanied by a lowered head and a fixed stare.
Breed Differences in Ear Expression
All dogs display emotions through their ears, but how easily we can interpret them depends on the dog’s ear type:
- Pricked ears (like German Shepherds): Movements are easier to observe—flattened ears are very obvious.
- Floppy ears (like Beagles or Spaniels): Ear positions can be slightly more difficult to read but other body cues can help.
Interpreting Ears Back in Context
It's critical to consider the dog’s entire body language and environment when interpreting what it means when their ears are back. A dog with ears back and a wagging tail in a calm home probably feels happy. The same posture in a vet’s office may indicate anxiety.
How to Respond When a Dog Puts Its Ears Back
- Observe the context: Assess what’s triggering the behavior before reacting. Is the dog being approached? Is there a loud noise?
- Use empathetic interaction: Approach calmly, speak softly, and avoid looming over the dog if it seems fearful.
- Provide safety: If the ears-back posture is frequent, ensure the dog isn’t regularly exposed to anxiety-inducing stimuli at home.
When to Seek Professional Help
Persistent fear or signs of distress should not be ignored. If your dog regularly pulls its ears back along with other symptoms like avoidant behavior, aggression, or excessive panting, a consultation with a veterinarian or certified behaviorist might help uncover deeper issues like trauma or health problems.
Conclusion
Dogs use ear positioning as part of a complex communication system, and ears pulled back are a key indicator of their interior state. As pet owners, paying attention to this behavior, framed within context, can help deepen our understanding and strengthen the bond we share with our furry companions. Reading ears is just one way to become more fluent in the language of dogs.
