While dogs don’t “say sorry” in the way humans do, they do exhibit behaviors that suggest apology or submission. Dogs rely on body language to communicate, and when they sense they’ve upset you, they may display certain signs to indicate they recognize your displeasure.
Signs a Dog Might Be “Saying Sorry”
- Lowered Ears – A dog may pull its ears back or flatten them against its head, showing submission.
- Avoiding Eye Contact – Looking away or showing the whites of their eyes (whale eye) is a way dogs show they are not a threat.
- Crouching or Rolling Over – Lying down or rolling onto their back exposes their belly, a submissive gesture.
- Tucking Tail – A tail tucked between the legs is another common sign of submission.
- Licking – Licking your face or hands can be a sign of appeasement, indicating they want to make peace.
- Pawing at You – This gentle touch could be a dog’s way of seeking forgiveness or attention after sensing tension.
Do These Behaviors Mean an Apology?
Though it seems like an apology, these actions are more about submission and trying to reduce tension in the environment. Dogs understand when their behavior causes a negative reaction, but they don’t grasp the concept of wrongdoing as humans do. Instead, they respond to the cues you give off, aiming to restore harmony in the pack.
How Should You Respond?
When your dog exhibits these submissive behaviors, it’s best to reinforce positive behavior through calm and gentle interaction. Yelling or punishing may confuse them, as they’ve already acknowledged their mistake in their way. Instead, use positive reinforcement to guide them toward better behavior.
In conclusion, while dogs don’t say “sorry” in words, they have their own ways of expressing regret or submission through body language. Understanding these cues helps strengthen your bond with your dog.