Have you ever noticed your dog mirroring your smile? You probably know the smile we’re talking about; maybe as you’re scratching at just the right spot, you see their lips curl up into a contented face that looks similar to a human’s smile. But do dogs truly smile in the same way humans do?

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The Nature of a Dog’s Smile

Yes, dogs can smile! While all dogs may be able to, certain breeds are genetically predisposed to display this behavior more frequently. Doberman Pinschers, terriers, and cattle dogs smile more than others.

This “smiling” is an appeasement greeting directed primarily at humans. Interestingly, dogs do not exhibit this behavior toward one another. This is similar to domesticated cats, where studies have shown that cats meow frequently to humans. However, adult cats don’t communicate with one another with meows; only kittens meow to their mothers.

Dogs smile by pulling one or both lips back, often revealing some or all of their teeth. This expression is frequently accompanied by other greeting behaviors, such as approaching their owner, wagging their tails, or even whining. This can be seen as a form of “active submission,” distinguishing it from other submissive behaviors, such as curling their bodies down or rolling onto their sides.

When Dogs Feel Guilty

Dogs may also smile in moments of guilt, especially when they sense their owners’ displeasure, such as when they are about to be bathed. If a dog displays a submissive grin after doing something wrong, it is typically an attempt to avoid reprimand from their owner.

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Is It Normal for Dogs to Smile with Teeth?

Yes, it is perfectly normal for dogs to bare their teeth when they smile. However, many people mistakenly interpret this toothy expression as a sign of aggression, which can lead to unnecessary fear. This misinterpretation can provoke a confrontational response from the person, potentially leading to defensive aggression from the dog.

Observing the dog’s overall demeanor is important for distinguishing a friendly grin from a display of aggression. A smiling dog usually wags its tail in a comprehensive sweeping or circular motion, approaches the owner with a relaxed body, and displays loose, wiggly movements. They typically do not growl, although there may be rare instances where a dog accompanies showing it’s teeth with a wheezy or grumbling noise.

In contrast, a dog displaying aggression may exhibit a stiff body posture, move slowly, and appear tense. By recognizing that dogs are simply communicating their feelings—whether through a joyful grin or a submissive smile—owners can appreciate how deeply our dogs feel about us.

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