Every dog has a face they only make when they think nobody is looking. The mid-yawn face. The tongue-out face. If you have ever wondered what any of these expressions actually mean, our guide to reading dog body language is a good place to start. The short answer: nothing. They mean nothing. That is the point.
1. The mid-yawn special
This wirehaired dog was one yawn away from a perfectly normal photo. Then the jaw dropped, the tongue deployed, and suddenly it looked like a Muppet left in the sun too long. We love it. No notes.
2. Tongue out, city mode
This brown mongrel has decided the correct way to experience the city is with the tongue out at all times. Wind speed irrelevant. Dignity irrelevant. A relaxed tongue is one of the classic signs your dog is happy, so consider this dog living proof that happiness looks a little silly up close.
3. The paw presentation
This border collie puppy opened its mouth for what looks like a big announcement and is showing a paw. Our translation: “I have no idea what I am doing but I am very committed.” Commitment counts.
4. Full relaxation protocol
Lying in the grass, tongue deployed, zero concerns. This dog has reached a level of peace most of us only read about, and the face is the best part.
5. The armchair philosopher
This shiba inu looks like it just remembered something embarrassing from 2019 and is processing it in real time. Classic shiba behavior. They think deep thoughts. We just never find out what they are.
6. The walk is mine now
This border collie grabbed its leash and announced that the walk was over and it would be doing the walking from now on. The grin says “I am in charge.” The tail says “I am thrilled about it.”
Dogs spend all day being told what to do, so when they slip and show their real face, it is worth celebrating. The yawns, the tongues. We would not trade a single one.
Photos via Pexels.