Why Does My Dog Keep Showing Me Her Belly?

Ever wonder why everytime you walk in the door your normally alpha dog rolls over and shows your her belly? When a dog presents her belly and neck in this situation, she's expressing an ancestral trait rooted in wolf pack behavior that was used to communicate deference to other “alpha” dogs. Since that pack mentality likely isn't present in her modern day life, she's now looking to you as the pack leader. Here are five reasons that will help you understand why your dog shows you her belly. 

Happy dogs who show you their belly when you return home may be doing their best to let you know that they adore you. The entire body is relaxed and they're in their most submissive posture waiting for some love. 

Hierarchy means everything in the canine world. By purposely exposing her vulnerable underbelly, your dog is communicating to you that she comes in peace and recognized your alpha authority. 

Dogs' bellies are very sensitive and their belly is the one place they normally can't reach on their own. This is a sign of trust in you and it feels great for them! 

Although dogs attempt to regulate their body temperature by panting, some may park themselves next to circulating fans or air conditioner vents on hot days to catch the cool breeze on their bellies where there tends to be less hair in an attempt to cool down. 

Confident adult dogs in their own homes roll on their backs and get into a relaxed posture when taking naps – usually on the sofa or your bed.