UNDERSTANDING YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE: A GUIDE TO CANINE COMMUNICATION

Without the ability to speak, dogs rely on barks, tail wags, and sometimes even snarls to express themselves. As we strive to bond with our canine companions, understanding their silent cues is crucial in recognizing their needs and emotions.

“Reading our dogs’ body language gives us valuable insight into their feelings and how they perceive the world around them,” explains Harmony Diers, a veterinary technician and project manager for the Dog Aging Project at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

To help owners better “decode” their dogs, Diers breaks down the meanings behind some of the most common canine body language signals.

Reading the Relaxation

“Happy dog, happy life” is a delightful motto, but how can owners tell if their dog is truly happy?

“Happy and relaxed dogs provide us with a lot of body language clues,” explains Diers. “Their ears can be anywhere from forward and relaxed to slightly pulled back but still relaxed. Dogs that are feeling submissive might even fold their ears back. The key takeaway is ‘relaxed.'”

A major indicator of joy is a circular tail wag. “When your dog wags its tail in a circle, it’s a sure sign they’re excited and happy,” Diers says.

Other signs that your dog is content and calm include:

• Squinting eyes
• A soft, direct gaze
• Leaning against you
• Lying down comfortably
• Rolling over
• An open mouth, sometimes panting

“It’s important to understand the body language of a calm and content dog,” Diers adds. “This helps us gauge whether they feel comfortable in their environment. By recognizing their signals, we can respect their boundaries and spot moments when they might need extra support or training.”

Personal Space Advised

On the flip side, discontented body language in dogs signals concern and often reflects defensive or submissive behaviors. This can be triggered by various factors, including overstimulation, new surroundings, or unfamiliar people.

One of the most telling signs is a dog’s tail. For instance, a frightened dog might tuck its tail between its legs, while a nervous or alert dog will carry its tail high and may wag it rapidly.

“A dog in an uncomfortable situation may also turn its body away from the threat, showing its back as a defensive posture,” explains Diers.

Just like when dogs shake off water, they might also give a shake to release tension or stress from their bodies.

Other signs of a nervous or alerted dog include:

• Upright, forward ears — Indicates the dog is in “fight or flight” mode, ready for action.
• Pinned-back ears — Signals the dog is trying to make itself look smaller or less threatening.
• Alert, fixed gaze — A dog focused intently on something, often signaling anxiety or wariness.
• “Whale eye” — When a dog avoids eye contact or shows the whites of its eyes, it’s usually a sign of fear or discomfort.
• Tense lips — Lips pulled back or lifted over the teeth can indicate a warning or threat.
• Licking lips — Often paired with yawning, this can signify stress or nervousness.

Recognizing these signs is crucial for ensuring your dog feels secure, whether at home or when interacting with unfamiliar dogs outside.

Diers adds that certain breeds naturally display characteristics that may seem alarming at first glance but aren’t necessarily signs of stress. For example, German shepherds often have upright ears, and huskies or malamutes sport curled tails even when relaxed.

“When these dogs are alert or feel threatened, their tails may become stiffer and higher, wagging quickly,” Diers says. “And with pugs, their eyes are often wide open, but if a pug is giving the ‘whale eye,’ it might indicate they’re feeling threatened or anxious.”

Trouble in Paradise

By learning to read your dog’s body language, you can also better identify potential health issues early on.

“An ill dog may sleep more than usual, become irritable, and show little interest in activities that normally excite them,” says Diers.

Other “red flag” behaviors that could indicate pain or distress include:

• Limping
• Drooping head
• Tense or stiff posture
• Tucked belly
• Arched back
• Whimpering
• Lip-smacking (often a precursor to nausea)

Diers points out that lip-smacking can also be a self-soothing response to stress or a sign that your dog is anticipating food.

“Ultimately, if your dog, who’s typically active and happy, starts isolating itself, becoming lethargic, or shows a reduced appetite, that’s a clear sign something’s off with their health. In such cases, it’s important to consult a veterinarian,” Diers advises.

Understanding and responding to your dog’s body language is an essential part of the human-animal bond. By recognizing their cues and advocating for their well-being, dog owners can ensure their pets remain happy, comfortable, and safe while also ensuring the safety of those around them.