What is a yawn?
A yawn is an involuntary action that involves opening the mouth wide and breathing in deeply, often accompanied by closing the eyes. It is a reflex that usually occurs when someone is tired or bored (Source: https://muschealth.org/medical-services/geriatrics-and-aging/healthy-aging/yawning). During a yawn, the diaphragm and muscles in the jaw, neck and chest contract as the lungs expand with air. This is followed by a long exhalation as the lungs deflate.
Yawning is thought to be linked to arousal and fatigue levels in the body. When tired, yawning may help increase alertness and stimulation. When bored, it can be a self-soothing behavior. Thus, yawning is commonly seen when someone is sleepy or needs mental stimulation.
Why do dogs yawn?
Similar to humans, dogs yawn as a sign of tiredness. Yawning helps increase oxygen flow to the brain and blood circulation, which can help wake up a sleepy pup (https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/why-do-dogs-yawn/).
Dogs also yawn when stressed as part of the fight-or-flight response. Yawning produces a physiological shift that can help relieve anxiety. Stressed dogs may yawn repeatedly in an attempt to calm themselves (https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/why-do-dogs-yawn).
Excessive yawning when a dog is not tired could be a signal they are feeling anxious, bored, or uncomfortable in a situation. Observing other body language cues can help decipher the meaning behind frequent yawning.
Contagious yawning
Dogs can “catch” yawns from people, a phenomenon called contagious yawning. Studies have shown that dogs yawn more frequently after seeing their owners yawn. It’s unclear whether this contagious yawning occurs between dogs. More research is needed to determine if dogs can “catch” yawns from other dogs. One theory is that contagious yawning is linked to empathy, but recent evidence disputes this, suggesting yawning may simply be a form of mild arousal or stress response. In any case, if your dog starts yawning after you do, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong. Contagious yawning appears to be a normal social behavior in dogs.
Common causes
There are three main reasons dogs yawn:
Boredom
Dogs may yawn when they are bored or understimulated. Without enough mental and physical activity, dogs can become restless and yawn frequently (source). Providing toys, play time, and environmental enrichment can help alleviate boredom in dogs.
Anxiety/stress
Excessive yawning can be a sign of anxiety or stress in dogs. Yawning helps dogs regulate their stress levels and release tension. If a dog is yawning frequently for no clear reason, it may indicate anxiety that should be addressed (source).
Tiredness
Like humans, dogs yawn when they are tired and ready for rest. Puppies tend to yawn more when they need a nap. Adult dogs may yawn in the evenings when they are ready for bed. Frequent yawning throughout the day could mean a dog needs more sleep.
When to be concerned
Excessive yawning in dogs can be a symptom of an underlying illness, pain, or neurological issue.
According to PetMD, excessive yawning paired with signs like restlessness, whining, or panting can indicate that your dog is in pain 1. Yawning along with shaking, trembling, or uncoordinated movement may point to a neurological problem.
Some research also suggests that chronic stress can cause dogs to yawn more frequently. So if your dog is yawning excessively and you cannot attribute it to being tired or bored, it’s worth paying close attention for other potential signs of illness or anxiety 2.
Excessive yawning that occurs suddenly or without explanation warrants a trip to the vet, especially if accompanied by lethargy, changes in appetite or bathroom habits, coughing, or other symptoms. Getting a timely diagnosis and treatment can help provide relief and prevent prolonged suffering.
Relieving Anxiety
Dogs may yawn frequently as a way to self-soothe when feeling anxious or stressed. Yawning produces a calming effect on the body and mind that can relieve nervousness. Some signs of an anxiety yawn include yawning when left alone, during car rides or vet visits, or in response to loud noises. Yawning excessively in these situations indicates your dog is trying to calm itself.
There are several techniques to reduce anxiety in dogs and limit excessive yawning:
- Create a safe, comfortable space for your dog with their bed, toys, and adequate lighting and temperature control.
- Introduce calming scents like lavender or chamomile around their space.
- Play calming music to mask loud or startling noises.
- Use pheromone diffusers or sprays to induce relaxation.
- Reward relaxed behavior with treats to reinforce it.
- Practice desensitization to things that trigger anxiety like car rides.
- Consider anti-anxiety medication if prescribed by your vet.
With patience and consistency using these techniques, you can reduce anxiety and excessive yawning in dogs. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your dog’s anxiety levels.
Addressing boredom
One of the main ways to address boredom in dogs is by providing more exercise and mental stimulation. Dogs that don’t get enough activity can become restless and engage in destructive behaviors. Make sure your dog gets adequate walks, play time, and chances to run around outdoors according to their age and breed requirements. Adding interactive toys like food puzzles can also keep your dog happily occupied when you’re away.
Food puzzle toys provide mental challenge along with physical activity. Dogs have to figure out how to move pieces around to get treats to fall out. Start with easy puzzles at first to teach your dog how they work, then gradually increase the difficulty. There are many types to choose from like Kongs, snuffle mats, puzzle balls, and more. Use your dog’s regular kibble or small treats in the puzzle so they are motivated to keep playing until it’s solved. Just be sure to monitor your dog with any toy to avoid choking hazards.
In addition to food puzzles, providing plenty of chew toys helps fight boredom. Stuffed Kongs, Nylabones, and other safe chews give dogs an outlet for their natural chewing instinct. Rotate different types of toys to keep things interesting. Bringing out “high value” toys only occasionally makes them more exciting as well. With plenty of exercise, playtime, and mentally stimulating activities, you can help prevent your dog from becoming bored at home.
Improving Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep is important for your dog’s health and wellbeing. There are some steps you can take to help your dog sleep better at night:
A good daytime routine with regular walks, playtime and training can help tire your dog out so they are ready for bed at night. Make sure your dog gets adequate physical and mental stimulation during the day.
Providing comfortable bedding can also encourage better sleep. Get a cushioned dog bed, blankets and soft toys to create a cozy sleep space. Place the bed in a quiet area away from drafts.
Other signs of issues
In additional to excessive yawning, there are other possible signs that your dog may be experiencing anxiety or stress. These can include changes in appetite, activity levels, mood, and behavior.
A stressed or anxious dog may start hiding or acting restless. They may pace around the house, move from room to room, have difficulty settling down, and seem unable to relax. Dogs that are usually excited about treats or walks may show less interest when experiencing stress or anxiety.
Significant changes in your dog’s typical appetite can also be an indicator of issues. Some stressed dogs may stop eating or have a reduced appetite. Others may overeat. Pay attention if your dog seems to be eating a lot less or a lot more than normal.
Your dog’s mood and temperament may also shift when stressed or anxious. Quiet dogs may become more vocal and bark or whine more. Excitable dogs may become more withdrawn. If your dog seems more irritable, short-tempered, or aggressive, stress could be a factor.
Any sudden changes in your dog’s normal routine, behavior, appetite or mood without a clear physical cause could signal a need for attention and care. Excessive yawning combined with these other signs of issues warrants consulting your veterinarian.
When to see the vet
Although occasional yawning is normal, it’s a good idea to see your vet if your dog is yawning excessively or yawning is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. According to the Rover article, persistent excessive yawning can potentially be a sign of underlying health issues.
Some specific symptoms that warrant a vet visit include:
- Yawning very frequently throughout the day
- Yawning that seems involuntary or uncontrollable
- Excessive yawning along with lethargy or fatigue
- Frequent yawning plus panting or drooling
- Yawning combined with pacing, shaking, or other signs of anxiety
It’s important to monitor your dog and watch for any abnormal yawning patterns. If you notice persistent excessive yawning or yawning along with concerning symptoms, schedule an appointment with your vet right away. Getting an expert evaluation can help identify potential underlying issues that may be causing the excessive yawning.