Introduction
Why do dogs walk in an arc?
Well, this is a quick post today covering dog communication. This is such a common and clear signal from a dog to another dog or even to a human (as long as the human understands it!) Yet many dog owners do not recognise what a dog is doing or saying when they see it.
A dog arcing is normally used by a dog when it approaches another dog.
Dogs do not like to approach head-on as it appears rude, a bit like when you stare at a dog they find it uncomfortable and threatening and so they avert their gaze. With this, they walk in an arc or a curve to avoid walking straight ahead.
This kind of dog behaviour goes unnoticed by many owners. It is a non-threatening signal that can give a clear meaning to other dogs nearby.
Many dog owners may see a dog “curving” and think it looks suspicious and move away with their dog.
What is actually happening is that the dog “curving” is giving a very clear signal, basically a wide arc or curve to let you and your dog know that it means no harm.
A dog can do the same with just a slight arc, but it generally depends on the experience and communication skills of both dogs at that time.
Sometimes if you have a dog that is struggling near other dogs you may see the other dogs curving when near to your dog.
They are just expressing that they do not mean any harm and are giving your dog a wide berth.
The next time you are out walking your dog watch for a conversation being played out. Are they turning their heads? Bowing? Shaping their bodies a certain way?
These are signals that can be used by dogs when meeting each other. They are building up a conversation long before you even notice it.
Dogs are visual animals and you could be walking down the road with another dog coming towards you. There could be head turning, eye softening, lip/nose licking and curving going on and more, long before you meet the dog.
If you start looking at your dog when you are in different situations you might be able to start understanding what your dog is trying to communicate.
This is a wonderful subject to know, and the more dog owners try to understand what their dogs are saying the better it will be for the dogs themselves.
For example, the next time you walk towards a dog, try curving when you walk towards them and watch what the other dog does, you may be surprised!
Before you leave, if you like this article please spread the word and share it on your social media and with friends so they too can benefit from what you have just read. I would really appreciate it.