An animal behaviourist has shared the true meaning behind dog sighing and huffing – and says most owners are completely missing what their pet is trying to tell them15:20, 23 Jul 2026Most of us have looked at our pets doing something baffling – the midnight zoomies, the sudden sulk, the inexplicable obsession with one particular corner of the sofa — and wished we could get inside their heads for just a moment. If only they could tell us what they’re thinking, we might finally understand what they need, what’s upsetting them, or why they do the things they do. Sadly, we can’t translate every tail wag, purr or side-eye into plain English.‌But there is hope. Animal behaviourists can help decode what’s really going on beneath the surface, using science and careful observation to explain the signals our furry companions are constantly sending – and to support owners who want happier, calmer homes for their pets.‌One of these experts is Will Atherton, who recently took to TikTok to explain why our dogs let out deep sighs from time to time. While you may assume it's to be dramatic, there's actually a deeper meaning.‌In an illuminating TikTok video, Will said: "People laugh at it, film it, call their dog dramatic, post it online. And look, I get it. It is endearing. But as a clinical canine behaviourist, this is something that I take seriously because what your dog is actually doing is communicating emotional tension to you, and most owners are completely missing it."Content cannot be displayed without consentHe clarified that sighing and huffing are recognised as "displacement behaviours" - physical methods dogs use to discharge accumulated emotional pressure.‌Rather than displaying attitude or boredom, he suggests they're frequently an indication a dog is working through frustration, slight anxiety or attempting to settle themselves after becoming stimulated.He added: "It's the body's way of regulating the nervous system."Drawing on his own Labrador, Sully, as an illustration, the behaviourist noted he regularly observes the dog releasing a prolonged sigh following mentally demanding activities.‌"When I've had him working through something that is mentally demanding or taxing, or I've asked him to hold a position when every part of him wants to move, he'll let out that long sigh," he explained."I don't dismiss that. His sigh tells me he's working hard emotionally and that I need to be aware of where he's at."He cautioned owners against overlooking the behaviour, especially if it occurs regularly during the day.‌"The harsh reality is, if your dog is huffing and sighing at you consistently throughout the day, that is a dog carrying a level of emotional tension that their current routine isn't properly addressing," he stated."It is not attitude. It's not them being funny. It's a signal, and it's your job as their loving leader to read it correctly."To help reduce that emotional strain, the specialist suggests providing dogs with increased physical activity, worthwhile mental challenges, and ample opportunities to genuinely unwind.Article continues belowHe maintains that recognising these nuanced behaviours can enable owners to forge a deeper connection with their pet while enhancing their general well-being.So there you have it! Hopefully that will help you understand your dog's huffs and puffs a bit better going forward.