Decoding Your Dog’s Body Language: What They’re Trying to Tell You

We all want to have great relationships with our dogs. They are furry family members that bring us joy, comfort, and companionship. In order to have the best possible relationship with our dogs, it is important to understand their needs and how they communicate with us. This week’s podcast and blog with LWDG Group Expert Samantha Thorneycroft-Taylor explains more about your dog’s Body Language.

Podcast Edition

Your Dog’s Body Language

Dogs communicate primarily through body language. They use their tails, ears, eyes, mouths, and bodies to express what they are feeling. Understanding dog body language can better respond to their needs and build a strong bond with them.

Here are some basics of dog communication so you can start having deeper conversations with your pup!

Dog’s Body Language – Tails

The way a dog holds its tail can tell us a lot about how it is feeling. A dog that is happy and relaxed will usually have a loose, wagging tail. A dog that is scared or feels threatened may tuck its tail between its legs. And a dog that is feeling aggressive may hold its tail high and stiff. Dogs with docked tails, or shorter length tails can make it more difficult to read.

Dog’s Body Language – Ears

A dog’s ears are also very expressive. Ears that are relaxed and facing forward usually indicate that a dog is happy and friendly. Ears that are pulled back or flattened against the head may mean that the dog is feeling scared or threatened. And ears that are perked up and alert usually mean the dog is on high alert and ready to take action.

Dog’s Body Language – Eyes

The eyes are another important part of dog communication. A dog that makes eye contact and has soft, relaxed eyes is usually comfortable and confident. A dog that averts its gaze or has hard, staring eyes may be feeling aggressive or defensive. And a dog that has wide, round eyes may be feeling scared or nervous.

Dog’s Body Language – Mouths

Mouths can also convey a lot of information about how a dog is feeling. A dog that has its mouth open and tongue lolling out is usually happy and panting to cool off. A dog that has its mouth closed tight may be feeling stressed or anxious. And a dog that is baring its teeth may be feeling aggressive or ready to attack.

Dog’s Body Language – Posture

Finally, the overall posture of a dog’s body can tell us a lot about its emotional state. A dog that is standing tall with its shoulders back is usually feeling confident and assertive. A dog that is crouching low to the ground may be feeling scared or submissive. And a dog that is stiffly walking with its hackles raised may be feeling aggressive or defensive.

Final Thoughts

By understanding these basics of dog communication, you can start having deeper conversations with your pup! Pay attention to your dog’s tail, ears, eyes, mouth, and body posture to get an idea of how it is feeling at any given moment. With practice, you’ll be able to quickly decode your four-legged friend’s body language so you can better respond to its needs. Remember every dog is different and your dog’s body language can vary. make sure to listen to the accompanying podcast for more information.

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• dog communucation
• Dog’s Body Language