Dog body language

Common dog body language signals along with descriptions of what they typically mean:

• Tail Wagging:
  • Fast, broad wagging: The dog is happy and       excited.
  • Slow wagging with wide       sweeps:       The dog is relaxed and content.
  • Stiff, rapid wagging: The dog may be agitated       or on high alert.
• Ears:
  • Erect and forward: The dog is alert and       interested in something.
  • Flattened against the head: The dog is scared or       feeling submissive.
  • Relaxed: The dog is calm and       comfortable.
• Eyes:
  • Soft, blinking: The dog is relaxed and       friendly.
  • Wide open, whites visible: The dog is scared or       stressed.
  • Narrowed or squinting: The dog might be       aggressive or feeling threatened.
• Mouth:
  • Relaxed, slightly open: The dog is comfortable       and happy.
  • Panting with tongue out: The dog is hot, excited,       or anxious.
  • Lips pulled back, showing       teeth:       The dog is fearful or showing submission.
  • Snarling, showing teeth: The dog is aggressive or       feels threatened.
• Body Posture:
  • Relaxed, weight evenly       distributed:       The dog is calm and at ease.
  • Crouched with tail tucked: The dog is scared or       feeling submissive.
  • Standing tall, weight       forward:       The dog is confident or potentially aggressive.
  • Play bow (front legs       stretched out, rear end up): The dog is inviting play.
• Tail Position:
  • High and wagging: The dog is happy and       confident.
  • Low and still: The dog is feeling       submissive or uncertain.
  • Tucked between legs: The dog is scared or       feeling submissive.
• Hackles Raised:
  • Raised fur along the back: The dog is on high alert,       scared, or feeling aggressive.
• Yawning:
  • Yawning when not tired: The dog might be       stressed, anxious, or trying to calm themselves.
• Licking Lips:
  • Licking lips when not       eating:       The dog is anxious, stressed, or trying to calm themselves.
• Rolling Over:
  • Showing belly: The dog is showing       submission or asking for a belly rub, depending on the context.

These signals can vary depending on the context and the individual dog's personality. Observing the whole body and the situation is essential for accurately interpreting a dog's body language.

.