Why Do Dogs Sigh?

  Estimated Read Time: 2 minutes  Summary: “Why does my dog sigh?” In this article, learn what it means why a dog sighs and whether a dog sighing should be something of concern…    My Dog Sighs  Sighing; a natural bodily function that takes its form as a louder-than-normal, deep and long breath. Sighs also help stretch out the […]

2 min read·Updated: Mar 06, 2025
Why Do Dogs Sigh?

 

Estimated Read Time: 2 minutes 

Summary: Why does my dog sigh?” In this article, learn what it means why a dog sighs and whether a dog sighing should be something of concern… 

 

My Dog Sighs 

Sighing; a natural bodily function that takes its form as a louder-than-normal, deep and long breath. Sighs also help stretch out the lungs. Many animals – including humans and dogs – can and do sigh.  

When we humans sigh, it can mean anything from fatigue, an attempt to relax, disappointment, frustration, all the way to happiness! But what does it mean when Fido sighs through their nose? Do they have the same emotional range as we do when it comes to sighing…? 

A large, red-furred Labrador-like dog rests their chin and front paws on the arm of a large L-shaped black couch

Why Does My Dog Sigh? 

Just like humans, it’s thought that dog sighing can be associated with both negative and positive emotions dogs experience. It’s thought that the eyes play a role in indicating what’s what when it comes to a dog’s sigh too: 

Half-closed eyes + sigh; happiness 

Full open eyes + sigh; disappointment 

It’s a good idea to watch out for all accompanying body language with your dog’s sigh. If they seem distressed or tired, and then they sigh then the sigh is probably in line with what their body is displaying overall. You can read more about reading dog body language in this blog here 

If they do seem a bit fed up and you hear them sigh, a quick bit of fuss is all that’s usually needed to set them right again! 

Sources

Author Ollila, Erin “Why Does My Dog Sigh?” Hill’s Pet, Jul 28. 2022 https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/behavior-appearance/why-do-dogs-sigh  

Becca TriggB
Written by

Becca Trigg

Becca Trigg is a content creator and pet-industry writer, with over 5 years of experience at PetLab Co. She is an all round animal lover, with a keen interest in canine joint health, dental hygiene and nutrition. When she’s not typing away in the office, she can be found sitting in a country pub, growing chillies or cuddling up with her family dog Maggie, a chocolate Labrador.

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The information contained within this site is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice. PetLab Co. is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If your pet has, or you suspect your pet has any medical condition, you are urged to consult your veterinarian. Medical conditions can only be diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Results May Vary. Not intended for human consumption. Please consult your veterinarian regarding any change in treatment or supplementation.
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