Is a Belly-Up Dog Always Submissive? Let’s Talk About Cutie…

We recently met a very spirited dog—we’ll call her Cutie.

Cutie’s got a whole lot of personality. She bolts toward anything exciting (snakes included), runs the fence like it’s a full-time job, and greets every human like they’re the best thing since liver treats. She’s also not exactly known for listening—unless you use a voice that could cut through concrete.

Her owners are doing their best. They’ve brought in a trainer, set boundaries, and are doing everything right. But they were told something interesting… That when Cutie rolls over and shows her belly, it’s a sign of submission—and they should ignore it.

No belly rubs. No exceptions.

But here’s the funny part: when someone sneaks in a quick rub, Cutie visibly calms down.

So, what’s the go? Is she submitting? Being cheeky? Or just asking for a little affection?

Understanding Why Dogs Roll Over: A Multifunctional Behaviour

The act of a dog rolling onto their back is multifunctional—it can communicate a wide range of emotions or intentions depending on context, environment, and the dog’s history.

Let’s break down the primary reasons:

1. Appeasement and Passive Submission

This is the explanation many people default to—often rooted in outdated dominance theory.

A dog may roll over to make themselves smaller, avoid conflict, or signal “I mean no harm.” It’s especially common in young puppies or under-socialised dogs who may feel overwhelmed. You’ll usually see other signs too:

• Ears pinned back
• Tense or frozen posture
• Tucked tail
• Avoiding eye contact
• Lip licking or yawning (calming signals)

This type of belly-up posture is usually reactive and associated with stress—not an invitation to interact.

🔍 Research Insight: A 1997 study by Bradshaw and Nott indicated that rolling over in submissive contexts was far more likely in interactions with humans who displayed dominant postures or voice tones—raising questions about the role humans play in triggering these displays.

2. Voluntary Play and Tactical Rolling

Dogs often roll during play—especially rough-and-tumble sessions with other dogs or playful humans. Far from being submissive, these rollovers are active strategies:

• To evade playful pounces
• To pause or redirect play
• To show trust and self-restraint

You’ll often see:

• Wiggly bodies
• Open mouths or “smiling” expressions
• Soft or wagging tails
• Play bows before/after

🧠 Research Insight: A 2015 study by Byosiere, Espinosa, and Smuts (University of Lethbridge) found that rolling over in dog play was not a sign of submission but a deliberate tactic. Dogs rolled to avoid bites or initiate further play—highlighting its communicative, social function rather than passive surrender.

3. Relaxation, Trust, and Emotional Regulation

This is the most often misunderstood context—and the one we believe deserves more attention.

Many dogs roll over on their own terms when they feel safe, calm, or want to invite social interaction. This can be:

• A signal of trust and vulnerability
• A request for attention or tactile soothing (like belly rubs)
• A form of self-regulation during high arousal (e.g. after fence running or visitor excitement)

The signs that this is voluntary and relaxed include:

• Loose, floppy body
• Tail resting gently or wagging
• Soft or squinty eyes
• Gentle nudging or eye contact

In these cases, the dog is not asking to be ignored—they’re offering a moment of connection.

Why the One-Size-Fits-All “Ignore the Belly” Advice Falls Short

Training advice that treats every roll-over as submission misses the mark—and can unintentionally dismiss moments of trust, bonding, and emotional expression.

At Jordan Dog Training, we encourage people to look at the whole picture:

• What was happening just before the roll-over?
• What is the dog’s body language saying as a whole?
• Does the behaviour seem voluntary or reactive?
• How does the dog respond after the belly rub or interaction?

In Cutie’s case, she clearly settles after a calm belly rub. That’s not submission—it’s self-regulation and a sign of comfort.

Can Belly Rubs Reinforce Excitability or Jumpiness?

This is a fair question, and the answer depends on timing and intent.

If the belly rub is given while the dog is still bouncing off the walls, barking, or launching at people—it can inadvertently reinforce those behaviours.

But when timed well—offered after the dog lies down, softens their posture, and starts to calm—belly rubs can become a powerful reinforcer for calm behaviour.

This is especially useful for:

• Over-aroused or anxious dogs who need help settling
• Dogs learning to self-soothe in overstimulating environments
• Creating positive associations with human contact

What We Recommend at Jordan Dog Training

If your dog flops over in a relaxed state and invites interaction, go ahead—give that belly a gentle rub. As long as the body language is loose and the context is safe, it can:

• Help reinforce calm states
• Strengthen your bond
• Give the dog a sense of agency and trust

At Jordan Dog Training, our trainers are skilled at recognising subtle behavioural cues and helping owners respond appropriately.

If you’re not sure whether your dog is being submissive or simply relaxed, we can help you learn to “read the room”—or in this case, read the dog.

Related Services

• In-Home Dog Training – Personalised plans for dogs like Cutie who need a calm, structured approach in their home environment.
• Obedience Training – Teaching dogs to focus, settle, and respond reliably in the real world.
• Puppy School – Early socialisation and body language understanding for lifelong success.

Further Reading on Our Blog

• Let Them Sniff: Why Sniff Walks Matter
• Why Dogs Jump on People—and What to Do About It
• Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language
• How to Stop Dog Fights: Prevention and Intervention
• Do You Have an Itchy Dog?

Final Thoughts

Not every belly-up dog is saying “I submit.” Sometimes, they’re saying “I trust you,” or “Could you please give me a scratch right there?”

Understanding the context, timing, and individual dog makes all the difference.

If you’re ever unsure, our team at Jordan Dog Training is here to help decode your dog’s behaviour with kindness, skill, and experience.

Disclaimer: This article is intended as general guidance and should not replace advice from your veterinarian or qualified behaviour professional.