2. How can I redirect this behavior in my dog?
Why Does My Dog Put Her Butt On Me?
It’s such a common occurrence and possibly one of the cutest things you’ll ever experience—your pup putting her bottom on you. But why does your dog do that? What does it mean?
What Is She Doing?
When your dog turns her back on you, and her bottom is facing you, she’s expressing an instinctive behavior called “presenting.” This isn’t an egocentric move, as some may think, it’s actually a sign of love and respect.
A Display Of Submission
Your pup is giving you a sign of submission by presenting her rear to you, which is a natural way of showing respect. It’s her way of saying: “You’re in charge—I understand, and I’m submitting to your authority.” It’s also to communicate trust. This behavior also signals that she’s not looking for a fight and will not attempt to challenge your authority.
A Sign Of Affection
It’s not just about respect and submission, though. She also does it to show affection for you. Your pup may choose to turn her back on you when she’s feeling most comfy and secure. It may be her way of telling you that you’re her favorite person, that you belong to her and that she values your presence.
Body Language That Rates High On The Adorableness Scale
Presenting her rear to you doesn’t necessarily mean she’s feeling overly submissive, or that she’s afraid of you. This behavior goes up on the adorableness scale and shows that your pup loves and respects you. In some cases, a pup may even do a “butt wiggle” or a “happy dance,” which is an added bit of excitement when presenting her rear.
So the next time your pup puts her hind end towards you, don’t be fooled—she’s not trying to give you the cold shoulder. She’s likely feeling secure and content enough to express her true feelings for you—love, adoration and respect.
How To Respond To Your Dog’s Display
If you’re not sure what to do when faced with your pup’s back end, consider these tips:
- Let her finish: Let your pup finish expressing herself before interacting with her. Speak softly to her and do not attempt to touch or pet her until she faces you.
- Return the gesture: You can start slowly by touching and stroking your pup’s shoulder or head. If any part of her body touches yours during presenting, you can accept her gesture as a sign of acceptance.
- Give love: After she finishes presenting, you can show your love and appreciation by giving your pup some petting and positive “people noises.”
The relationship between you and your pup should be founded on love and respect. When your pup expresses her love for you by presenting her rear, she’s simply asking for your acknowledgement and acceptance.