Understanding your dog's body language is key to building a strong bond and knowing how they feel in different situations. Dogs will use their whole bodies to show us and each other how they are feeling. By learning how your dog communicates means that you will be able to respond appropriately and keep you, your dog and others safe. You need to consider the individual dog, breed of dog, whole body and context or situation they are in at time. Here’s a guide to interpreting some common doggy body signals:
Neutral/Relaxed: A tail held in its natural position (varies by breed) indicates a calm, content dog. Wagging: Fast wagging, especially when the whole body wiggles, usually means happiness and excitement. A slow, stiff wag could indicate insecurity or low-level tension. Tail Tucked: A tail tucked between the legs often signals fear, anxiety, or submission. Tail High and Rigid: A tail held high and stiff could indicate alertness or even aggression in certain contexts.
Relaxed: Ears held naturally or slightly back indicate that the dog is comfortable and at ease.
Forward/Pricked: When ears are pointed forward, the dog is paying attention to something. This could be a sign of interest or curiosity, but in some cases, it can also signal alertness or even aggression.
Flattened or Pulled Back: Ears that are pulled back can mean fear, submission, or stress. Paired with other signs, it could also indicate a willingness to avoid confrontation.
Soft, Relaxed Eyes: When a dog’s eyes are soft, with relaxed lids and pupils, they are feeling calm and happy.
Wide Eyes with Dilated Pupils: This can indicate fear, surprise, or excitement. It’s often a sign the dog is feeling overwhelmed or highly stimulated.
Avoiding Eye Contact: A dog that avoids eye contact may be showing submission or discomfort. It’s their way of signaling that they don’t want confrontation.
Whale Eye: This is when you see the whites of your dog’s eyes (also called “half-moon eye”) and often indicates stress, anxiety, or that the dog feels cornered.
Relaxed/Open Mouth: A slightly open mouth with a relaxed jaw, often accompanied by gentle panting, indicates that the dog is relaxed and comfortable.
Lips Pulled Back (Snarling): This is a warning sign that your dog may be feeling threatened or aggressive. Look for this along with a growl or stiff body posture.
Yawning or Lip Licking: Dogs often yawn or lick their lips when they are feeling anxious or stressed, especially in unfamiliar situations. This is known as a “calming signal.”
Panting: Panting can be a sign of happiness or excitement, but excessive panting can also be a sign of stress, heat, or fear.
Relaxed Body: A dog standing naturally, with loose muscles, and moving fluidly is calm and content.
Tense or Stiff Body: If your dog’s body appears stiff or frozen, they are likely feeling stressed, fearful, or on alert.
Cowering or Lowering Their Body: This indicates submission or fear. The dog may try to make themselves look smaller in an attempt to avoid confrontation.
Leaning Forward/Standing Tall: A dog that leans forward with a stiff body is likely feeling assertive, confident, or potentially aggressive.
Play Bow: When a dog lowers their front legs and raises their hind end in the air, this is an invitation to play. It’s a sign of excitement and fun.
Barking: Dogs bark for various reasons – excitement, alarm, boredom, or attention-seeking. Pay attention to the pitch and intensity to understand the context.
Growling: Growling is a clear sign of discomfort or a warning. It could be defensive, indicating fear, or protective, signaling that they want something to stay away.
Whining: Whining usually indicates that your dog is anxious, uncomfortable, or seeking attention. Some dogs also whine out of excitement.
If the hair on your dog’s back and shoulders is standing up, this is called piloerection. It often means the dog is feeling aroused, excited, or fearful. This doesn’t necessarily mean aggression, but it does signal heightened emotions.
It’s important to look at your dog’s body language as a whole rather than focusing on one part. A wagging tail can mean happiness, but if paired with stiff body posture or wide eyes, it could signal nervousness or agitation.
Here are some links with more information if you would like to know more:
https://bowwowinsurance.com.au/pet-community/pet-talk/dog-communication-body-language/
https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/understanding-your-dog/body-language
