Without the ability to converse, dogs must depend on a bark, a wag of the tail, or sometimes even a growl to communicate with their human companions. Nevertheless, as we strive to bond with our canine partners, grasping the non-verbal becomes crucial in understanding their desires and necessities.
“Grasping our dogs’ fundamental body language allows us to gain perspective on their thoughts and emotions regarding their surroundings and experiences,” stated Harmony Diers, a veterinary technician and project manager for the Dog Aging Project at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.
To assist owners in “decoding” their canine, Diers clarifies the significance behind various common body language cues utilized by dogs to communicate.
Interpreting The Relaxation
A joyful dog leads to a joyful life is a delightful principle to follow. But how can owners determine when their dogs are truly happy?
“Content and relaxed dogs provide us with significant body language information,” Diers explained. “The ears of these dogs can vary from being forward and relaxed to pointed back and serene. Dogs that are happy and compliant might even fold their ears flat. But the main point to take away is ‘relaxed.’”
A hallmark indicator is seen in circular tail wags — if your dog is wagging its tail in a circular motion, it’s signaling that it is extremely happy and excited, Diers mentioned.
Other body language observations marking a satisfied and serene dog encompass:
- Squinting eyes
- Soft, yet direct gaze
- Leaning against you
- Reclining
- Rolling on its back
- Open/panting mouth
“Recognizing a tranquil and happy dog’s body language is crucial to ascertain if he or she is at ease in their environment and context,” Diers emphasized. “Gaining the ability to comprehend our dog’s communication enables us to foster their success in their limits and also pinpoint circumstances where they might require additional assistance or training.”
Personal Space Recommended
Conversely, negative body language reflects actions that signal distress — indicating defensive or submissive behaviors. This can be swayed by numerous factors, such as excessive stimulation, new settings, or unfamiliar faces.
Once again, fundamental insights can be gleaned from a dog’s tail; for instance, an anxious dog may tuck its tail, while a vigilant or agitated dog will hold its tail high and may wag it energetically.
“A dog feeling uncomfortable may also divert its body from the threat to present its back,” Diers noted.
Just like shaking off water, dogs shake themselves to relieve tension or stress.
Other indicators marking a nervous or alert dog include:
- Upright and forward-facing ears — indicates readiness for “fight or flight”
- Pinned back ears close to the head — indicates the dog is trying to appear smaller
- Alert eyes — often fixated on an object
- “Giving you the whale eye” — avoiding direct eye contact or revealing the whites of the eyes suggests a frightened dog
- Tense lips — often pulled back or lifted over the teeth
- Licking lips — often accompanied by yawning
Recognizing the signs of an unhappy dog is essential for your furry companion to feel secure at home as well as when facing unfamiliar dogs in public.
Diers mentions that while these are typical indicators, some breeds’ inherent traits may come across as alarming at first sight.
For example, the natural ear structure of German shepherds means they are often upright, while husky and malamute breeds have tail curls, even when at ease.
“When these dogs enter alert mode or feel threatened, the tail may rise higher, become stiffer, and wag rapidly,” Diers remarked. “Consider our pugs. They typically have large open eyes, but if a wide-eyed pug is displaying the whale eye, it may indicate he feels threatened or uneasy.”
Issues In Paradise
By understanding your dog’s body language, you can also be more equipped to identify potential health issues.
“A sick dog may sleep more, exhibit grumpiness, and show disinterest in the usual interactions that previously excited them,” Diers mentioned.
Other “red flag” signs that may suggest pain or discomfort encompass:
- Limping
- Drooping head
- Tensed posture
- Tucked abdomen
- Curved back
- Whining
- Lip-smacking (a precursor to nausea).
Diers notes that lip-smacking can also signify a self-soothing mechanism for anxiety or anticipation of a treat.
“Ultimately, if your typically lively and cheerful dog begins to isolate and display lethargy and/or a reduced appetite, this signals a change in their overall health, and consulting a veterinarian should be a course of action to consider,” Diers advised.
Interpreting, comprehending, and reacting to your dog’s body language is a crucial aspect of the owner-companion bond. By understanding their signals and effectively advocating for your dog, owners can ensure their pets remain joyful, at ease, and secure while also safeguarding the safety and well-being of those nearby.
The article Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language: A Guide to Canine Communication was first published on Texas A&M Today.