Understanding your dog’s body language

Dogs communicate primarily through body language, but many owners misinterpret their signals, leading to confusion and even behavioural issues. Understanding your dog’s non-verbal cues can strengthen your bond and help prevent miscommunication.

Here are six common body language signs and what they really mean:

The Tail

Many assume a wagging tail means a happy dog, but it’s not that simple!

A dog’s tail position, movement, and stiffness all reveal its emotions.

Relaxed & Neutral Tail – A calm, content dog.

Slow, Loose Wag – Friendly and happy.

High & Stiff Wag – Alert, dominant, or possibly aggressive.

Tucked Tail – Fearful, nervous, or submissive.

Upright & Rigid Tail – Not always happiness! Often a sign of confidence, dominance, or arousal. If paired with stiff posture or raised hackles, the dog may feel confrontational or on high alert.

Yawning – Not Just Tiredness

Dogs yawn to relieve stress and diffuse tension. If your dog yawns frequently in a new or stressful situation, it may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed. This is particularly common in social settings or during training.

Lip Licking – A Sign of Nervousness

Lip licking or tongue flicking is a common calming signal. If a dog repeatedly licks its lips when not eating, it could be feeling uneasy, uncertain, or trying to calm itself in a stressful environment.

Whale Eye – A Subtle Warning

When a dog turns its head but keeps its eyes fixed on something, revealing the whites of its eyes, this is called ‘whale eye.’ It often means the dog is feeling uncomfortable or defensive. This is a common sign before a dog snaps or bites.

Ear Position – Listening to Their Emotions

A dog’s ears are highly expressive. Relaxed ears typically indicate a calm dog, while pinned-back ears often signal fear, submission, or discomfort. Forward-facing ears, on the other hand, suggest curiosity, excitement, or even aggression, depending on other body language cues.

Body Stiffness – A Warning Sign

A stiff, frozen body is a red flag. Dogs will often freeze before reacting aggressively or defensively. If a dog suddenly becomes rigid, holds their head low, and fixates on something, they may be preparing to lunge or bite. Recognising this early can help prevent dangerous encounters.

Understanding these signals can help prevent misunderstandings, reduce stress for your dog, and strengthen the bond you share. By tuning into your dog’s body language, you can create a relationship built on trust, love, and harmony. Keep learning, keep listening, and most importantly keep loving your furry best friend!