Do Dogs Get Embarrassed

Have you noticed that your dog will hide themselves if they get an ugly haircut? It is similar to humans since we will feel greatly embarrassed so that we choose to hide ourselves for some time if we get bad styling. So can we also regard the emotion which leads our dogs to hide as an embarrassment? Can dogs really feel embarrassed? You will find the real story behind it in this article.

What Emotions Can Dogs Feel?

Here are some of the confirmed primary emotions that dogs can feel:

1. Happiness/Joy
Dogs can display happiness through behaviours such as wagging their tails, relaxed body language, playful behaviour, and expressions of excitement when greeting their owners or engaging in enjoyable activities.

2. Fear
Dogs can feel fear in response to perceived threats or unfamiliar situations. Signs of fear include cowering, trembling, tail tucking, hiding, barking or growling defensively, or attempting to escape from the source of fear.

3. Sadness
Dogs can experience sadness, particularly in response to loss, separation, or major changes in their environment or routine. Signs of sadness may include decreased appetite, lethargy, withdrawn behaviour, reduced interest in activities, and whining or whimpering.

4. Love/Attachment
Dogs can form strong emotional bonds with their owners and other animals. They can display affection, loyalty, and a desire for physical closeness. They may seek attention, cuddle, nuzzle, or follow their owners around.

5. Excitement
Dogs can feel excitement when anticipating something positive, such as going for a walk, receiving treats, or seeing their favourite people. Excitement is often displayed through a wagging tail, jumping, spinning, or vocalizations.

6. Anxiety/Stress
Dogs can experience anxiety and stress in response to various factors, including loud noises, separation, changes in routine, or unfamiliar environments. Signs of anxiety can include restlessness, panting, pacing, excessive barking, destructive behaviour, or inappropriate elimination.

7. Contentment/Relaxation
Dogs can feel a sense of contentment and relaxation when they are comfortable, well-rested, and in a safe and secure environment. They may exhibit calm behaviour, relaxed posture, and a soft expression.

8. Anger
When dogs feel threatened or fearful, they may exhibit aggressive behaviours as a way to protect themselves. This can include growling, barking, snarling, or even biting. Anger in these cases is often a defensive response to perceived danger.

It's important to remember that each dog is an individual, and their emotional range and expression can vary. Understanding and responding to a dog's emotions can help create a stronger bond and promote their overall well-being.

Can Dogs Get Embarrassed?

While it is difficult to determine exactly what dogs feel because they cannot communicate their emotions in the same way humans do, some behaviors exhibited by dogs can be interpreted as an embarrassment. Dogs have the capacity to experience a range of emotions, including fear, happiness, and excitement, so it's possible that they can also feel embarrassed to some extent.

Certain actions or situations can make dogs exhibit behaviors that resemble embarrassment. For example, if a dog accidentally knocks something over or fails to perform a task they were trained to do, they may display signs of embarrassment, such as lowered ears, a tucked tail, or avoiding eye contact. These behaviours are often associated with submissive or anxious responses.

It's important to note that dogs don't experience embarrassment in the same complex way that humans do. Their response is more instinctual and linked to their understanding of social cues and the reactions of their human companions. Dogs are highly attuned to their owner's emotions and can pick up on cues such as tone of voice, body language, and facial expressions, which may influence their behaviour.

While it's reasonable to believe that dogs can feel a sense of embarrassment based on their observable behaviors, it's challenging to fully understand their subjective experience. Ultimately, it's essential to provide a safe and supportive environment for dogs, avoiding situations that may cause them distress or embarrassment.

What Signs Can Tell Your Dogs Embarrassment?

While dogs cannot communicate their emotions verbally, there are several signs that can indicate a dog is feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable in a particular situation. These signs may include:

1. Body Language
A dog may exhibit various body language cues that suggest embarrassment, such as lowered head, flattened ears, a tucked tail, or a hunched posture. These are submissive behaviours that dogs may display when they feel uncomfortable or embarrassed.

2. Avoiding Eye Contact
Dogs may avoid making direct eye contact when they are embarrassed. They may avert their gaze or look away, signalling their discomfort in the situation.

3. Excessive Panting or Drooling
Some dogs may pant excessively or drool more than usual when they are embarrassed or anxious. This can be a physiological response to stress or discomfort.

4. Hiding or Seeking Solitude
When embarrassed, some dogs may try to hide or find a secluded spot away from attention. They may seek refuge under furniture, behind objects, or in a quiet corner.

5. Submissive Behavior
Dogs may exhibit submissive behaviours such as rolling over onto their backs, exposing their belly, or urinating when they feel embarrassed or anxious. These behaviours are an attempt to appease and avoid conflict.

6. Changes in Appetite or Digestion
Embarrassment or stress can sometimes affect a dog's appetite or digestion. They may eat less, refuse treats, or have digestive issues like diarrhea or an upset stomach.

7. Excessive Licking or Grooming
Some dogs may excessively lick themselves or groom their paws or other body parts when they are embarrassed or anxious. This behaviour is a self-soothing mechanism.


It's important to note that these signs can also be indicative of other emotional states or underlying health issues. It's best to observe your dog's behaviour in context, considering the specific situation and any other cues they may be displaying. If you notice persistent signs of embarrassment or any concerning behaviours, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviourist for further guidance.

How To Help Your Dog Deal With Embarrassment?

If you believe your dog is experiencing embarrassment or discomfort in certain situations, there are several ways you can help them cope and feel more at ease:

1. Provide a Safe and Supportive Environment
Create an environment that promotes your dog's well-being. Ensure they have a quiet and comfortable space where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed or embarrassed. Offer them a secure place to rest and relax, such as a cozy crate or a designated corner with their bed.

2. Avoid Reinforcing Embarrassing Situations
Identify the triggers or situations that make your dog feel embarrassed and try to avoid or minimize exposure to them. For example, if your dog becomes embarrassed during certain social interactions or in crowded environments, consider adjusting their routine or finding alternative activities that make them more comfortable.

3. Positive Reinforcement and Training
Engage in positive reinforcement training methods to build your dog's confidence and reinforce positive behaviours. Reward your dog for calm and confident behaviour, and provide them with plenty of praise, treats, and affection when they exhibit bravery or face potentially embarrassing situations.

4. Gradual Desensitization
If your dog's embarrassment is related to specific triggers or situations, you can gradually expose them to those triggers in a controlled manner. Start with low-intensity exposure and gradually increase the intensity or duration over time, rewarding your dog for remaining calm and confident.

5. Provide Socialization Opportunities
Proper socialization can help your dog become more comfortable in different situations and around various people and animals. Gradually introduce your dog to new experiences, people, and environments, ensuring that the encounters are positive and not overwhelming. This can help boost their confidence and reduce potential embarrassment.

6. Maintain a Calm Demeanor
Dogs often take cues from their owners' behaviour and emotions. If you remain calm and composed in situations that may potentially embarrass your dog, it can help them feel more secure. Avoid reacting negatively or scolding your dog for their embarrassed behaviour, as this may exacerbate their discomfort.

7. Seek Professional Help
If your dog's embarrassment or anxiety persists or intensifies despite your efforts, consider consulting with a professional dog behaviourist or trainer. They can provide personalized guidance and develop a behaviour modification plan to address your dog's specific needs.

Final Thoughts:

Though whether dogs can experience embarrassment or not is still not confirmed by authority, we do sometimes notice that our adorable dogs exhibit some symptoms associated with embarrassment. Remember, every dog is unique, and we should be patient, observant, and understanding of your dog's needs and provide them with love, reassurance, and a supportive environment.