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Dogs, unable to use words, rely on various signals such as barks, tail movements, and even snarls to convey their feelings. For pet owners, deciphering this non-verbal communication is crucial for understanding and fulfilling their pets’ needs.
According to Harmony Diers, a veterinary technician associated with the Dog Aging Project at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, interpreting dogs’ body language provides valuable insights into their emotions and experiences.
Recognizing Relaxation
The phrase “happy dog, happy life” resonates deeply with dog owners, but what indicators signify a joyful pet?
“Relaxed and happy dogs exhibit a range of body language that gives us clues,” Diers notes. “Their ears might be relaxed and oriented forward, or pinned back; the main point to remember is that they are in a relaxed state.” A strong indicator of a dog’s happiness is if it wags its tail in a circular motion, a gesture that signals joy.
Other signs that your dog is content may include:
- Squinting eyes
- A soft but direct gaze
- Leaning against you
- Relaxing on the ground
- Rolling over
- Panting with an open mouth
Understanding these signs is essential for assessing whether a dog feels comfortable in its environment. Identifying when dogs are at ease can help owners create a supportive atmosphere and recognize situations that may require additional guidance or training.
Respecting Personal Boundaries
Conversely, certain body language signals indicate a dog’s unease, which can be heightened by factors like overstimulation or unfamiliar settings. For instance, a dog that tucks its tail may be frightened, while an anxious dog might carry its tail high with a vigorous wag.
“A dog experiencing discomfort may turn away to shield itself,” Diers explains.
Similar to how humans might shake off tension, dogs also shake as a method to relieve stress. Signs indicating a nervous or alert dog can include:
- Ears held upright and facing forward, indicating readiness
- Ears pinned back close to the head, suggesting submission
- Eyes wide open, often fixated in a stare
- Averting direct eye contact or showcasing the whites of the eyes, termed as “whale eye,” indicating fear
- Tensed lips that may expose teeth
- Licking lips, which can be accompanied by yawning
Recognizing discontented body language is essential for ensuring your dog feels secure both at home and while socializing with other dogs. Diers cautions that certain breeds might naturally exhibit behaviors that appear alarmed, such as the erect ears of German shepherds or the curled tails of huskies, even when they are not distressed.
Identifying Health Issues
Understanding a dog’s body language is not only about interpreting emotions but can also aid in identifying potential health problems.
“When a dog is unwell, it may exhibit changes in behavior, becoming less interactive or lethargic,” Diers points out.
Some warning signs that could signify discomfort or illness include:
- Limping
- Hanging head
- Tensed body posture
- Tucked abdominal region
- Arched back
- Whimpering
- Lip-smacking, which can indicate nausea or stress relief
Diers emphasizes that if a normally active dog begins to isolate itself or shows a decrease in appetite, this may indicate an underlying health issue that warrant a visit to the veterinarian.
Effectively interpreting and responding to a dog’s body language fosters a stronger bond between pet and owner. By understanding these cues, owners can ensure that their dogs remain joyful, secure, and safe, while also safeguarding the well-being of those around them.
Provided by Texas A&M University
Citation: Understanding your dog’s body language: A guide to canine communication (2025, March 17) retrieved 17 March 2025 from https://phys.org/news/2025-03-dog-body-language-canine-communication.html
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