Showing Discomfort
Other than expressing how comfortable they are, yawns can mean something else as well. If a dog yawns in public, it could mean that they’re exhausted and are hoping for an afternoon nap. Yes, it can mean anxiety and discomfort, too. Be sure to keep an eye out for this behavior when you notice your dog doing this a lot when in an unfamiliar place.
Tilting Their Heads
People usually talk in a higher pitch when they’re speaking to a dog. Dogs might tilt their head when you do this if, almost as if they’re trying to understand you. Dogs are great at reading as well as responding to vocal cues and body language. They can recognize specific words, so maybe they’re waiting for those associated with walks and treats! One theory says they move their heads that way to adjust their outer ears for better listening.