Ever wondered why your furry friend seems to have a bone to pick with your phone calls? While it might not be a case of outright disdain, dogs often exhibit perplexing behaviors when their owners engage in phone conversations. Here’s a breakdown of why your pooch might be giving you side-eye during those important calls.
Confusion:
- Unfamiliar Sounds: One reason dogs might tilt their heads in confusion when you’re on the phone is the unfamiliarity of hearing your voice emanate from a small device. Dogs are creatures of habit and are accustomed to associating your voice with your physical presence, complete with body language and visual cues. The disembodied voice from your phone can be disorienting or even alarming for them.
- Inability to See You: Communication for dogs heavily relies on visual cues. Without the ability to see your facial expressions or body language during a phone call, your furry friend may find it challenging to gauge the tone or intent behind your voice. This lack of visual context can leave them feeling unsure or disconnected.
Loss of Attention:
- Focus Shift: When you’re engrossed in a phone call, your attention naturally shifts away from your canine companion. This diversion of attention can be frustrating for them, particularly if they’re accustomed to receiving playtime, affection, or walks when you’re present.
- Boredom or Frustration: Left out of the loop and unable to participate in the conversation, your dog may experience boredom or frustration. In their quest for interaction, they might resort to barking, whining, or engaging in attention-seeking behaviors.
Mimicking Your Energy:
- Emotional Contagion: Dogs possess a remarkable ability to sense human emotions. If you convey stress, agitation, or any strong emotion during a phone call, your furry friend is likely to pick up on these cues. Consequently, they may mirror your energy levels, exhibiting signs of anxiety or restlessness.
What You Can Do:
- Maintain Calm Demeanor: During phone calls, strive to maintain a calm and composed demeanor. Your reassuring tone can help alleviate any anxiety or unease your dog may experience.
- Provide a Chew Toy or Activity: Offering your dog a chew toy or engaging activity can serve as a welcome distraction while you’re preoccupied with your call. Interactive toys or puzzle feeders can keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
- Short Calls When Possible: Whenever feasible, opt for shorter phone conversations to minimize disruption to your dog’s routine. This approach allows you to address pressing matters efficiently while sparing your furry friend prolonged periods of uncertainty or neglect.
- Train a Relaxation Cue: Teach your dog a relaxation cue, such as “down” or “settle,” to encourage calm behavior during phone calls. Consistent training coupled with positive reinforcement can help them associate this cue with relaxation and composure.
Remember:
Dogs communicate differently than humans. Their vocalizations or behaviors during phone calls aren’t indicative of hatred but rather a means of expressing confusion, frustration, or a longing for attention. By empathizing with their perspective and implementing suitable strategies, you can foster a harmonious environment where both you and your canine companion coexist peacefully, even during phone conversations.