It’s deeply saddening to imagine the heartbreak that lovely canines go through after being betrayed and abandoned by their owners.
Feeling rejected, they live their lives without feeling the human love and affection that all pups equally deserve. Sadly, some dogs were physically abused by their very own families and they end up becoming terrified of humans.
Arnold, a cute Chihuahua, was one of those abandoned canines who was betrayed by his family. He became so frightened that he couldn’t stand being touched by a human.
Discovering Love in a Foster Home
After his owners left him, a kind family took care of him for a month. They reached out to Hope For Paws, a rescue based in California, and they instantly came to rescue him.
Shortly afterwards, Foxy and the Hounds took Arnold under their care. Terri Fox, the rescue’s founder, decided to foster him.
As soon as Terri met Arnold for the first time, she realized that the doggo would need more time to decompress. He was terrified and he didn’t let his foster mom pet him.
Whenever he would see Terri’s hand approaching him, he would start barking and growling. He would open his mouth as if he wanted to bite her hand.
Terri sat with Arnold every day and tried to gain his trust. She fed him and took care of him, and made him a comfy bed in the bathroom.
Arnold didn’t want to be friends with her so he kept his distance.
One day, Terri made the decision to try to stroke him and melt away his immense fear. She sat next to him and reached in with a closed hand in order to avoid being bitten. Arnold snapped and started screaming.
Although the pooch kept opening his mouth and going for her hand, he didn’t bite Terri. After seeing that Arnold was only protecting himself, Terri opened her hand and gently stroked his chest.
As the pawdorable pup looked at her with his eyes filled with hope, she made him a promise.
“You never deserved to be this scared. Somebody probably was very mean to you, but it will never be that way again.”
The doggo stopped barking and he started melting with affection as Terri tenderly petted him. She succeeded in gaining his trust.
Arnold Turns Into A Cuddle Bug
That was the turning point in their relationship.
The next day, when Terri walked into the bathroom, the pooch was happy to see her. He perked up in his doggy bed and wagged his tail. As Terri approached him, he rolled over and asked for a belly rub.
Terri was over the moon. She rubbed his belly, and the pup looked relaxed as he soaked up all the love his foster mom gave him.
From that day on, they became friends and they began enjoying their time together.
They loved snuggling on the couch and watching TV. Arnold loved his foster mom and he kept giving her adorable kisses. Terri referred to him as Mr. Snuggly, and the sweet Chihuahua ended up sleeping in her bed.
Starting A New Life In His Forever Home
After realizing how far he had come, Terri knew that Arnold was ready to search for his forever home. A wonderful family came along and fell deeply in love with the pawdorable Chihuahua.
They gave him the perfect forever home and all the love that he lacked his whole life.
Arnold’s doggy brother, Pepe, welcomed him to the family and the two canines became best friends.
Three months after he was adopted, Terri visited Arnold in his California home. Both of them were thrilled to see each other, and the pup happily showed Terri all his toys.
Terri was overjoyed to know that Arnold is living his best life with his family who adores him.
We’re grateful to all the amazing people who took part in his rescue, and to Arnold’s foster mom, Terri, whose love shed all Arnold’s fears and turned him into a happy pup.
If you’ve ever noticed your furry friend shedding tears, you might wonder what’s tugging at their heartstrings. Dogs, our loyal companions, have a unique way of expressing their emotions that can sometimes leave us puzzled. Those teary eyes and whimpering sounds can speak volumes, revealing a glimpse into their inner world. Understanding why dogs cry goes beyond just the physical act – it’s a window into their souls.
As a seasoned dog trainer, you’ve likely encountered various behaviors that make each pup special. The mystery behind why dogs cry is one that tugs at your heart as you strive to decode their signals. From joyous reunions to moments of solitude, a dog’s tears can convey a myriad of feelings that deepen the bond between human and canine. So, let’s embark on a journey to unravel the emotional tapestry of our four-legged friends and discover the reasons behind their heartfelt expressions.
Understanding Dog’s Emotional Responses
The Science Behind Dog Crying
When it comes to understanding why dogs cry, it’s essential to consider the science behind their emotional responses. Dogs, like humans, have complex emotional lives. They use crying as a way to communicate their feelings and needs. Just as humans shed tears in response to various emotions, dogs may cry to express distress, anxiety, pain, or even joy. Understanding the science behind dog crying can help you interpret and respond to your furry friend’s emotions more effectively.
Recognizing the Signs of Distress
Recognizing the signs of distress in dogs is crucial for building a strong bond with your pet. Dogs may cry as a sign of distress when they are in pain, feeling anxious, or seeking attention. Paying attention to your dog’s body language, vocalizations, and behavior can help you identify when they are in distress. Common signs of distress in dogs include whimpering, whining, excessive panting, pacing, and avoidance behaviors. By recognizing these signs, you can provide the comfort and support your furry friend needs during challenging times.
Common Reasons Why Dogs Cry
Seeking Attention
Dogs may cry to get your attention. Whether they want to go outside, play with their favorite toy, or simply crave some love and affection from you, crying can be their way of communicating their needs. Pay attention to what your furry friend is trying to tell you.
Feeling Anxious or Stressed
Just like humans, dogs can feel anxious or stressed, leading them to cry. Loud noises, changes in their environment, or being left alone for extended periods can trigger anxiety in dogs. If you notice your dog crying more than usual, consider what might be causing stress in their life and try to address it.
Pain and Health Issues
Crying can also be a sign that your dog is in pain or experiencing health issues. Dogs may cry when they are unwell, injured, or in discomfort. It’s essential to monitor your dog’s crying patterns and behavior to detect any signs of pain or health problems early on. If you suspect something is wrong, consult your vet promptly.
Behavioral Aspects of Dog Crying
Communication with Humans
When dogs cry, it’s their way of communicating with you. Whether they’re feeling anxious, stressed, or in pain, their cries are a form of expression. By paying attention to your dog’s cries and understanding the emotions behind them, you can strengthen your bond and provide the support they need. Dogs rely on you to interpret their cries and respond accordingly, so being attentive to their emotional cues is vital for a harmonious relationship.
The Role of Breed and Individual Temperament
A dog’s breed and individual temperament can also play a role in their crying behavior. Some breeds are naturally more vocal than others, while individual differences in temperament can affect how a dog expresses their emotions. Understanding your dog’s breed characteristics and unique temperament can help you decipher their crying patterns. By recognizing how breed traits and temperament influence their crying, you can tailor your response to better meet your dog’s specific emotional needs.
How to Respond to a Crying Dog
Comforting Your Pet
When your dog is crying, the first thing you should do is comfort them. Dogs cry to communicate various emotions, and showing them love and affection can help soothe their distress. You can try petting them gently, speaking to them in a calming tone, or offering a favorite toy or blanket for comfort. Your presence and reassurance can go a long way in calming a crying dog.
Seeking Veterinary Care
If your dog’s crying persists or if you notice other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to seek veterinary care. Persistent crying could indicate an underlying health issue or pain that needs medical attention. A vet can conduct a thorough examination to diagnose the cause of your dog’s distress and recommend appropriate treatment. Don’t hesitate to consult a professional to ensure your dog’s well-being.
Training and Behavior Modification
In some cases, crying in dogs can be a behavioral issue that requires training and behavior modification. Professional trainers can help identify the root cause of the crying behavior and work with you to implement effective strategies. Training exercises, behavior modification techniques, and positive reinforcement can help address excessive crying in dogs. By addressing the behavior at its core, you can help your pet become calmer and more comfortable.
Preventing Unnecessary Distress
Creating a Comfortable Environment
Ensure your dog has a cozy spot to relax, free from loud noises or high traffic areas. A comfortable bed in a quiet corner can help reduce stress and anxiety, making them less prone to excessive crying.
Regular Health Check-Ups and Exercise
Schedule routine check-ups with your veterinarian to address any underlying health issues that could be causing your dog’s distress. Additionally, daily exercise not only keeps your dog physically fit but also mentally stimulated, promoting overall emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Understanding your dog’s emotional cues is crucial for strengthening your bond. By interpreting their cries, you can address their distress, anxiety, pain, or joy effectively. Creating a cozy environment and ensuring regular health check-ups and exercise are key in promoting your dog’s emotional well-being. By providing comfort, maintaining their health, and catering to their needs, you’ll not only enhance your relationship with your furry friend but also ensure a happy and healthy life together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do dogs express emotions through crying?
Dogs express emotions like distress, anxiety, pain, and joy through crying. Signs include whimpering, pacing, and changes in behavior.
How can I prevent unnecessary distress in my dog?
Create a comfortable environment for your dog by providing a cozy and quiet spot for relaxation. Regular health check-ups and exercise can also help address underlying health issues.
What can I do to strengthen my bond with my dog?
Understanding your dog’s emotional cues, providing comfort, and maintaining their health and environment are key to enhancing your relationship with your canine companion.
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Hey there, I’m Janet Brooks, a dog-loving student from California. I’m all about helping pups in need, especially those without homes. Me and my awesome friends work together to give shelter and love to stray dogs. Oh, and I also write blogs about dogs to share helpful info.