Why do puppies grunt when you hold them? What to Know

#2: Take care of their BOAS

If your dog has trouble breathing, it’s best to take note of these things:

  • Lose those extra fats to ease their breathing. It’s best to keep your dog at a healthy weight, especially if they’re flat-faced.
  • Watch out for hot weather. They may need extra care during those days. Avoid going out for a walk when the sun’s too hot. Make sure they’re always cool, and there’s water nearby.
  • Don’t forget to exercise. But only do things that are comfortable to them. You’ll know your dog if they’re having a hard time keeping up. Just do casual walks outside when it’s not hot. And give them rest in between.
  • You may also consider getting surgery for your dog. This will adjust their nostrils and soft palate for easier breathing. So you may not need to worry anymore.
  • #6: To show their disappointment

    Does your dog always let out a deep sigh?

    It might be because they aren’t getting what they want. So they mumble to express that they aren’t satisfied.

    You may notice it when they had their hopes up, and you might’ve let them down.

    For example, your dog might’ve seen you grab their leash. They thought it’s time for a walk, so they waited for you to come closer. But then you went back into your room. And boom, their excitement was all gone.

    It’s the same with humans. We also do it when they are displeased with something.

    #6: Your pawed child is uncomfortable

    It’s true that there are dogs who like hugging. But most dogs don’t understand it. Plus, they might also feel restricted.

    “But how would I know that they don’t like being hugged?”

    Just watch your dog’s body posture. An uncomfortable dog’s:

  • Tail is low.
  • Avoiding eye contact.
  • Body posture is tense.
  • Lifting front paw in hopes of disengaging.
  • So if your dog isn’t a fan of hugging they’ll grunt and groan to convey it. They do this instead of showing aggressive acts towards you. Such as growling and biting.

    You also might hug your dog in the wrong way. As a result, your dog will grunt and groan as a sign of discomfort.

    Let’s say you’re hugging your dog around their stomach area. Which will cause uncomfortability.

    Dr. Rebecca says that when dogs are held, it’s common if they exhale and then grunt. She also adds that it usually happens when pressure is applied to a dog’s stomach.

    “So, what’s the right way of hugging them?”

    You may start by resting your hand on your dog’s back. Make them used to your touch first.

    Then, wrap one arm around the chest and the shoulder of your dog. With the other, support the backside.

    It’s best to avoid encircling your arms around their bellies. That way Fido won’t feel discomfort on their tummy because of hugging.

    Check out this video on how to do it properly:

    Why does my dog grunt when I hug?

    Dogs grunt when they are relaxed. Puppies will grunt when they are with their littermates and when they are feeding. Adult dogs often grunt while being petted and ‘loved on’ by their family. … Often, dogs will grunt while unwinding from a stressful situation, such as a vet visit.