When Dogs Roll Over for "Belly Rubs," What Does it Really Mean?

USA Dog Behavior Podcast

When Dogs Roll Over for "Belly Rubs," What Does it Really Mean?
In my latest episode of Dog Aggression Answers, I delve into the complexities of canine aggression, focusing on the mixed signals dogs exhibit, like rolling over for a belly rub while simultaneously displaying aggression towards certain people. I explain that a dog's decision to roll over is often a sign of fear or submission, not an invitation for affection.
This behavior, known as 'submissive rolling' is classified as a 'calming signal' or 'appeasing behavior' and is one of the ways dogs indicate discomfort or fear, akin to a human's gesture of raising hands in surrender. This is a misunderstanding where humans interpret this as a desire for physical contact, which can actually exacerbate the dog's fear.

Further in the podcast, I explore the factors that influence a dog's reaction to strangers, including the size and gender of the person, their movements, and how they engage with the dog. Dogs often find men more intimidating due to their size and their more mechanical types of movements. Interestingly, dogs may react more positively to people who show indifference or less interest in them, as their lack of engagement with the dog can be less threatening.
My advise to dog owners on how to manage interactions between their anxious dogs and strangers: my key recommendations include instructing people not to look at, touch, or talk to the dog and to maintain a distance, especially if the dog shows signs of fear or stress. This approach can significantly improve the dog's comfort and behavior.
Links:
If Your Dog is Aggressive to People, Never Stop Doing These 2 Things
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About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Chapters

1. When Dogs Roll Over for "Belly Rubs," What Does it Really Mean? (00:00:00)

2. Understanding Dog Aggression and Submissive Behavior (00:00:01)

3. Managing Fear and Aggression in Dogs (00:09:30)