Article
Three Dog Behaviors to Read in Context
Yawning, lip licking and freezing can be worth noticing. Learn how to describe the surrounding situation before assigning any one meaning.
Video
Your Dog Does These 3 Things When Something Feels Off
Published: June 11, 2026 - Duration: 4:56
A public DogMind Journal video about yawning, lip licking, freezing, and why one visible behavior is not enough for interpretation.
Read more
A public DogMind Journal video about yawning, lip licking, freezing, and why one visible behavior is not enough for interpretation.
Key observations
- Use the video as general educational context only.
- Interpret dog behavior through the whole dog, setting, and pattern over time.
References
Communication in Dogs, Marcello Siniscalchi, Serenella D'Ingeo, Michele Minunno, Angelo Quaranta, Animals (2018-07-31) DOI: 10.3390/ani8080131, accessed 2026-07-15
Open source linkBehavioural, Saliva Cortisol and Heart Rate Responses to Different Types of Stimuli in Dogs, B. Beerda, M. B. H. Schilder, J. A. R. A. M. van Hooff, H. W. de Vries, Applied Animal Behaviour Science (1998-01-01) DOI: 10.1016/S0168-1591(98)00145-7, accessed 2026-07-15
Open source linkDog Bite Prevention, American Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, accessed 2026-07-15
Open source link
Related content
Glossary
Freeze
A brief or sustained pause in movement that should be interpreted through body tension, context, and recovery.
Glossary
Lip Lick
A tongue movement over the lips or nose that can occur in many contexts, including food, grooming, health, anticipation, or social situations.
Glossary
Yawning
A wide mouth opening that can be physiological, sleep-related, or context-associated rather than a universal stress signal.