Animal behaviourist Will Atherton has explained the real reason dogs sigh and huff, saying most owners misunderstand what their pet is trying to communicate.
What Dog Sighs Really Mean
In a TikTok video, Atherton said: "People laugh at it, film it, call their dog dramatic, post it online. And look, I get it. It is endearing. But as a clinical canine behaviourist, this is something that I take seriously because what your dog is actually doing is communicating emotional tension to you, and most owners are completely missing it."
He clarified that sighing and huffing are recognised as "displacement behaviours" — physical methods dogs use to discharge accumulated emotional pressure. Rather than displaying attitude or boredom, they are frequently an indication a dog is working through frustration, slight anxiety or attempting to settle themselves after becoming stimulated.
How to Respond to Your Dog's Signals
Drawing on his own Labrador, Sully, as an illustration, Atherton noted he regularly observes the dog releasing a prolonged sigh following mentally demanding activities. "When I've had him working through something that is mentally demanding or taxing, or I've asked him to hold a position when every part of him wants to move, he'll let out that long sigh," he explained. "I don't dismiss that. His sigh tells me he's working hard emotionally and that I need to be aware of where he's at."
He cautioned owners against overlooking the behaviour, especially if it occurs regularly during the day. "The harsh reality is, if your dog is huffing and sighing at you consistently throughout the day, that is a dog carrying a level of emotional tension that their current routine isn't properly addressing," he stated. "It is not attitude. It's not them being funny. It's a signal, and it's your job as their loving leader to read it correctly."
Reducing Emotional Strain
To help reduce that emotional strain, the specialist suggests providing dogs with increased physical activity, worthwhile mental challenges, and ample opportunities to genuinely unwind. He maintains that recognising these nuanced behaviours can enable owners to forge a deeper connection with their pet while enhancing their general well-being.
