Reverse Sneezing
This often occurs in short-necked dogs. They inhale sharply and stand still, stretching their neck with loud breathing.
Chattering Teeth
Dogs have a vomeronasal organ (sometimes called the Jacobson’s organ) behind their upper teeth, which picks up scent-based information. Licking, breathing, or teeth-chattering can help them process smells—commonly seen after they lick or sniff another dog’s urine.
Anal Gland Messages
Dogs have anal glands that produce a stinky, oily substance for marking territory. Sometimes a vet or groomer has to manually empty them, but a grain-free diet can help.
Flea Biting or Corn-Cob Nibbling
Sometimes dogs gently nibble on their owner’s arm or clothes. This can be an affectionate, self-soothing behavior, leaving saliva spots behind.
Sucking Objects
Some dogs self-soothe by sucking on blankets, shoes, or similar items.
Panting
Dogs don’t sweat through their skin, only through paw pads. They pant to cool off. Sometimes they pant with a wide-open mouth and tongue out, or with a small opening for quick breaths.
