Vet reveals why your dog stretches when they see you come home

A vet has revealed the heartwarming reason for one reaction dogs have to seeing you.

Imagine you’ve just got home after a long day at work to see your dog – and instead of jumping all over you in greeting, they stand up and lunge into a stretch.

According to one vet on TikTok, this reaction is “more than just shaking off a nap”.

Watch the video above.

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As for why your pup does a stretch followed by their tail wagging excitedly when they see you, Dr Alex Crow says, “It’s not just coincidence, it’s called a greeting stretch.”

“It’s a sign that your dog feels safe, relaxed and happy that you’re home.”

The vet says when they stretch right as you arrive home, it’s an “intentional” reaction.

“It’s their version of a calm, friendly hello and if you’ve ever reacted to it with praise, you’ve probably reinforced it without realising.”

In the video caption, Dr Crow says to take the reaction as a “compliment” from your pup.

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“Your dog feels good – and they’re glad you’re home.”

This isn’t true of all stretching, though.

The vet notes stretching can be your dog’s way to “loosen up stiff muscles”.

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He also points out it can be a “sign of discomfort or pain” if your pup is stretching often and especially if their stomach is touching close to the ground.

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For dogs who are home on their own a lot and deal with separation anxiety, Dr Katrina Warren has a few tips on how to make your pup feel comfortable.

The first: teach them alone time. 

“By easing them into it, your puppy will learn that being alone is a normal part of their routine,” she writes for 9Honey.

She also recommends to create a safe space for your dog and to not make a big fuss when you leave and also return home. 

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