Why do dogs wiggle their bum towards you?

Answered by Robert Dupre

When my pup turns his butt towards me, I’ve always wondered why he does that. After doing some research, I’ve discovered that it’s actually a sign of trust and vulnerability. It seems counterintuitive, but when a dog turns his butt towards you, he’s essentially saying, “I trust you not to hurt me.”

You see, dogs have a natural instinct to protect themselves. They are always aware of their surroundings and potential threats. When a dog faces you head-on, he is in a position to defend himself if necessary. However, when he turns his butt towards you, he is exposing his most vulnerable area – his rear end.

By turning his butt towards you, your pup is essentially saying, “I trust you completely.” He is showing that he feels safe and comfortable in your presence. It’s a sign of submission and reliance on you for protection.

This behavior is deeply rooted in a dog’s social and pack mentality. In a dog pack, the more dominant dogs will often approach other members from the front, while the more submissive dogs will turn their rear ends towards the dominant ones. It’s a way of acknowledging the higher status and showing respect.

When we bring dogs into our homes as pets, they still retain some of these pack instincts. So when your pup turns his butt towards you, he is essentially treating you as the dominant member of the “pack.” He is acknowledging your authority and trusting that you will not harm him.

It’s important to note that not all dogs will display this behavior. Some dogs may be more independent or have different personalities. However, for many dogs, turning their butt towards you is a sign of trust and vulnerability.

So the next time your pup wiggles his bum towards you, remember that it’s a sign of trust and affection. It’s a reminder that you have earned his trust and that he feels safe in your presence. Cherish this moment and continue to nurture the bond between you and your furry friend.