Interpreting Dogs Body Language And Gestures

The energy surrounding a dog is what generates his body language at any given moment.

Dogs Body Language - Learn the signals of canine communication and develop a clear understanding of "Why dog's do what they do".

Most dog owners don't fully understand why their dog continuously watches and follows them.

The reason is that dogs react to energy and body language. It's important to remember that body language and energy go hand-in-hand in the canine world. Dogs body language depends on the situation and the energy the dog is receiving around him. The dog owners body language and energy (emotion) tells the dog how to respond.

Dogs Body Language Signals

- Calm, Relaxed & Submissive
The Yellow Lab in the above picture is calm, relaxed and showing submissive behavior. Her ears are down to the sides in a natural position, mouth open, although sitting, it's obvious that her tail is in a relaxed position as well.

Like this small dog, showing their bellies is a "Defenseless" position for dogs. When they do this, they are calm, relaxed and showing total submission.

- Wants To Play
Typical signal of wanting to play would be what is called the "Play Bow". The dog's rear end is raised in the air, while his front legs are down, tail is wagging and eyes are bright and happy.

- Fearful
Unlike this cartoon picture, a dog that is frightened will lower his body and tuck his tail between his legs. Some dog's tremble as well. His head will be low and his ears flat to the head. The dog's hackles will most likely be raised. Generally there is no direct eye contact.

This Golden Retriever is clearly stressed and uncertain of the situation around her. Her ears are laid back and her tail is close to her back end. She is uncomfortable.

- Alert Dominant Stance
This German Shepard is signaling a "Dominant Stance". Head high, ears forward, staring and standing tall are all signals of an "Alert Dominant Stance". A stiff tail held straight out along with a low growl are also indicators.

- Confident And Challenging
This handsome PitBull is displaying confident and possibly challenging behavior. His head is held high and he is focused.

- Agressive
This Doberman is clearly showing aggressive behavior. Ears can be forward or back and close to the head. Like this dog, the eyes will be narrow with a challenging stare. The mouth and lips will be open and drawn back, exposing bared teeth.

The body will be tense and in an upright position. The hackles will be up and the tail will be straight out and possibly fluffed. The dog will most likely be snarling, growling or barking.

As the pack leader, if the dog owner is upset or reacting negatively, the dog will pick up on this energy. This can cause the dog to tuck his ears back due to uncertainty of how to react for his owner.

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