What better way is there to begin communicating than understanding a common language? When it comes to dogs, their  body postures are there expressions. So, I began researching for this new series by reading two articles and a chapter of a book that focused on learning to “speak dog” by understanding their body language.

 

Experts advise that dog lovers should look at the big picture when trying to understand their dog. They should read the signs and signals from their dog’s eyes, ears, mouth, tail, and hackles before coming to a conclusion about what their dog is trying to say.

 

After reading a lot about dog body language, I learned about several ways that dogs show emotion just by moving their body the slightest bit! For example, it confirmed my hypothesis that lip-licking and yawning can be a sign of stress or anxiety.

 

 

 

It’s important to know what your dog is saying in many situations. Whether laying down on the couch or barking at another dog, learning the language is imperative! I made a list to help identify certain states of being in dogs.

 

 

• Calm/relaxed:
• • Relaxed soft stance
  • Ears relaxed
  • Tail down and relaxed
  • Head high
  • Casual gase soft

 

• Alert:
  • Tail straight out (not firm)
  • Ears forward pricked  (may move slightly)
  • Standing straight up tall
  • Eyes wide (ish)

 

• Dominate Aggressive:

• • Hackles raised
  • Nose wrinkles
  • Snarl
  • Body slightly forward

 

• Fearful:
  • Body lowered
  • Tail tucked
  • Ears Back
  • Brief eye contact
  • Forehead smooth

 

• Anxious/stressed:
  • Tail down
  • Stiff tail wag high up
  • Body lowered
  • Ears back
  • Panting
  • Lip licking
  • Yawn (tired or anxious)

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SOURCES:

• Don’t Whisper Listen – By  Pat Miller
• How to Read Your Dog’s Body Language – By Stanley Coren