Your pup's actions tell you a lot about their mood. Although you may not be fluent in the canine tongue – short of what it means when they salivate – you do need to learn how to interpret dog behaviour. Have you ever witnessed your dog licking certain textures or circling the same spot in front of you? There are many reasons a specific dog state of mind or health concern may cause them to do these things. Once you pay attention to their behaviour, you'll be able to help.

1. Bad Breath

Dogs aren't known for having wonderfully minty breath, but if you notice a marked change with even just a little bad breath, it might be time to take a trip to the veterinarian. There could be something wrong with your dog's oral health. A change in the smell of your dog's breath may also be a cause for concern with respect to their gastrointestinal tract, liver, or kidneys. If your dog's breath smells of urine, for instance, there could be a kidney problem. Sweet-smelling breath is a sign to vets that your dog may have diabetes (especially if drinking more water and urinating more often). Your dog’s overall mood may appear happy, but if their breath has changed, pay attention and let your veterinarian know.

2. Biting

Puppies may nip at you as they learn how to communicate with their pet parents. This usually happens while playing, as young dogs often communicate with their mouths when they interact. It may also happen during training or for simply no reason you can identify. If your young one is nipping regularly it's important to stop it before it develops into a more problematic dog behaviour down the line.

Dogs bite out of anxiety, fear or aggression. Can you identify which is motivating your pet to do so? If you're having trouble teaching your dog not to bite, consider working with a professional trainer, or better yet, a veterinary behaviourist. Your veterinarian should be able to recommend one for you.

3. Circling

Dogs who can't stop walking in circles may have a health issue. Yes, sometimes it's fun to chase your tail, but if your pup can't shake the compulsion, there's a problem beneath the surface. Ear infections may cause circling, but compulsive tail chasing may occur with bull terriers

Of course there may be other reasons your buddy is circling. Older dogs may suffer from idiopathic vestibular syndrome, and, not to alarm you, but all dogs are at risk for poisoning or a brain tumour. Only your vet can determine the cause of your dog's circling, so get them in for a check-up.

4. Digging

Dogs dig in the ground for many reasons: to escape, to track animals, to make a cool spot to lie or to hide something important to them. However, some dogs "dig" inside as well. Have you ever noticed your dog scratching at the blankets or couch in order to find the perfect place to lie down? This dog behaviour happens most often at night and during nap times, and it is completely normal.

If your dog's digging starts to bother you, or damage your furniture, consider working with a professional trainer to reduce this stubborn habit.

5. Eating poo

Dogs eat faeces for many reasons; it can be a normal (while distasteful to us) dog behaviour. Young dogs may watch their mother clean them (who ingests faeces as a result), and mimic her. Fear may even cause your dog to eat faeces if they’re afraid of the repercussions. Then again, your dog may just be curious. He may smell certain scents in the faeces and wonder what it tastes like.

Eating poo can also be an instinctive solution to a nutritional deficiency. Make sure you feed your dog a well-balanced food like Hill's™ Science Plan™, so you can completely rule out malnutrition as a reason for your dog eating waste. Contact your veterinarian especially if your dog is losing weight as well.

6. Head pressing

If you notice your dog pressing their head against the wall or another firm object, there's a need for your immediate attention. Head pressing is a common sign of numerous serious problems, such as toxic poisoning or brain disease. Make an appointment with your dog's vet right away.