Have you ever wondered if your Shih Tzu is trying to tell you that they are sorry? They might be trying to get that message across, but are you picking it up? Either way, the question is how do dogs say sorry? Here’s how…
How Do Shih Tzus Say Sorry?
Sometimes we project human emotions onto dogs.
The truth is, dogs are emotional creatures, but that doesn’t mean they feel all of the same emotions that we do.
Even so, even if they can’t actually feel bad, they do pick up on your emotions through your tone of voice and body posture.
They know, clearly, that you are upset.
They might not understand why, but they can read your basic emotions pretty well.
So, they will try to apologize in their doggy way.
Signs Your Dog is Trying to Say They Are Sorry
There are a few signs you can pick up on that show your dog is sorry.
Here are the main ones…
1. Their Tail Stops Wagging
This is a quick way for your Shih Tzu to show you they are feeling sorry.
I know that with my Truman he wags his tail whenever I come near him.
He is always a happy, tail-wagging little dog.
So, if the wagging stops, there is a reason for it.
2. Their Ears Droop
Drooping ears is one of the more common apology behaviors a dog has.
Most of the time, your dog’s ears are perky and on alert.
If you see that they are starting to droop then you know they are sorry for their action or at least are sorry that you’re unhappy.
While Shih Tzus do have a range of emotions, their actual emotions or reasons for their behavior typically are a reaction to your emotions.
3. Their Eyes Will Look Wider
Shih Tzus have such big eyes, to begin with, so it might be difficult to notice that their eyes are even wider than normal.
This behavior will be more noticeable in other dog breeds.
But if your canine companions are showing you wider eyes they are letting you know they feel bad about something.
You might also enjoy:
Do Shih Tzus Know They Have Done Something Wrong?
Why Does My Shih Tzu Bark at Me?
4. They Will Paw You or Rub Their Face on You
Sometimes Shih Tzus will paw at you just to get your attention.
They want you to pet them or throw a toy.
But if they add in rubbing their face on your leg to their pawing, then chances are they are working to get back into your good graces.
5. Sit On You and Rub Their Face on Yours
When all else fails, don’t be surprised if your Shih Tzu jumps on your lap and starts cuddling up to you and running their face on your neck.
This is kind of the ultimate, “I’m sorry!” appeasement behavior.
They love you and they need to know that you love them just as much.
So go ahead and give them a good cuddle and petting session.
They will know that all is well in their little world.
You might also enjoy:
How to Tell if a Shih Tzu is Aggressive with Cats
Should I Let My Shih Tzu Sit on the Sofa?
To Sum it All Up:
Keep in mind that when your Shih Tzu is saying it is sorry it is actually reacting to how you are reacting and your body language. The signs they show to say “sorry” are actually showing a submissive posture and not saying they are sorry for bad behavior although some pet parents will disagree. Either way, it can be pretty cute and give you a good reason to cuddle with your little bundle of joy.
Please Note:
This article is informational only and does not substitute for veterinary advice. Always check with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your Shih Tzu. This article should not be considered in any way as veterinarian advice.
