Interpreting Dogs Body Language
Learn To Read Your Dogs Body Language And Develop A
Clear Understanding Of Why Dogs Do What They Do!
Dogs Body Language
By learning a dogs body language and the signals of canine communication, dog owners can develop a wonderful and lasting bond with their dog. Most dog owners do not quite understand why their dog watches their every move.
The reason is that dogs react to energy and body language. Like in the wild, using body language the pack leaders tell the others when and where to move.
Since the owner is considered the alpha dog, the dog is constantly observing their owner's body language for the signal of what to do next.
Remember, the dog owners body language and emotional energy is what tells the dog how to respond. If the owner feels bad, the dog feels bad. If the owner is happy, the dog is happy, etc.
The Energy Surrounding A Dog Is What Generates His Body Language At Any Given Moment!
Dogs Body Language Signals
Calm, Relaxed and SubmissiveThe Yellow Lab in the above picture is calm and relaxed. 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 in the picture to the right, 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
A Dogs body language indicating fear will be that of a lowered body with the tail tucked between his legs. This Chihuahua puppy is clearly showing signals of fear. The ears are flat, the body is low and the tail is tucked. Generally, a dog that is frightened will lower the head and flatten the ears. The dog's hackles will most likely be raised and most likely there is no direct eye contact.
Stressed And Uncertain
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.
Aggressive
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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