29-05-2025
Vet explains adorable reason dogs stretch when they see you
Dogs stretching around you should be "taken as a compliment"
Does your dog do a big stretch as soon as you walk in the door? It might not be because they've just woken up or are feeling bored; it's actually a positive sign that owners should "take as a compliment".
Understanding what our beloved pooches are trying to tell us can be challenging since they can't speak to us. But dogs use their entire bodies to express their emotions.
Learning how your dog communicates is beneficial for recognising if they're feeling confident, relaxed, or anxious and stressed. Knowing these cues helps you better understand what your pet is attempting to convey.
Vet Dr Alex Crow, Chief Veterinary Officer at The Net Vet, has shed light on this behaviour, especially when a dog greets you with "front legs out, hips up, tail wagging," which he discussed on TikTok, reports the Express.
"It's not just coincidence. It's called a greeting stretch," he said. "It's more than just shaking off a nap. It's a sign that your dog feels safe, relaxed and happy that you're home," he continued.
Dr Alex also mentioned that while dogs might stretch to "loosen up stiff muscles", doing so specifically when you arrive home is "intentional". He further noted: "It's their version of a calm, friendly hello and if you've ever reacted to it with praise, you've probably reinforced it without realising."
Nevertheless, it's important to keep in mind that "not all stretches are about affection". A pet whose belly is low to the ground might be signalling discomfort or pain, and owners should "keep an eye" on such postures. Dr Alex mentioned: "Most of the time though it's just your dog's way of saying hello."
In response to the observations, a dog owner shared in the comments section: "I always thought it was because they knew I was about to take them for a walk."
Another contributed: "Yes! Every morning when I go downstairs, he is laying in his bed waiting for me and when I open the door he jumps up and does the big stretch on my foot! Gets lots of scratches then picked up for cuddles and kisses. Boston Terrier."
A third remarked: "The 'big stretch' must be an international thing. We all say that in our native language, right? At least I do."
Many others pointed out that cats exhibit similar behaviour. According to Hill's Pet, animals, much like humans, sometimes need to stretch their muscles. They may require a good stretch upon waking up, or it could indicate a desire to play.
Pets might also elongate if they're feeling bored or are seeking attention. If this happens, consider taking them out for a walk or engaging them with playtime indoors or in the garden.
However, frequent stretching could also indicate a strained muscle or joint discomfort. Your pet might be trying to ease the pain by stretching the affected area.
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If you observe a particular body part being stretched more than usual, and they seem sluggish in their movements, it could be a symptom of arthritis or joint pain, warranting a visit to the vet.
This behaviour could also be associated with abdominal discomfort. In such cases, they will stretch with their backside raised, front end lowered and flat on the floor.
They may maintain this position for an extended period, often when no other dogs are present. You might also notice them whimpering in pain or resisting being petted.
If they arch their back into a hunched posture, it could also signify abdominal pain, which is crucial to have examined immediately.
