Body language can convey thoughts and emotions that our words withhold. In some cases, body language may even be the most honest indicator of a person’s current emotional state. It can provide a more accurate telling of someone’s true emotions because body language often manifests subconsciously.
Reading body language is useful not only when you are dealing with people. Acknowledging and understanding body language cues is also helpful if you are training a dog or puppy. Because we cannot use words to communicate with our pets, interpreting body language may be the best way to understand how they feel.
Canine body language can convey all kinds of emotions. Let’s use this opportunity to discuss what your pet’s body language means. We can also touch on the role body language should play in canine emotional regulation.
The Body Language of a Happy Dog
No one can resist the charms of a happy dog. When you see one, you just want to walk up to them and give them a loving pat on the head.
The most recognizable sign of a happy dog is their wagging tail. The intensity of the wagging may vary, but it is unmistakably there.
Apart from the wagging tail, happy dogs generally look quite relaxed. They exhibit natural posture, and their ears are also in relaxed positions. Your dog’s mouth may also be open in such a way that it looks like they are smiling. Purina notes that dogs don’t actually know how to smile, but they can fool anyone with those charming looks on their faces.
There’s also a variation of the happy dog body language you may see whenever your pet feels particularly playful. Along with the other signs we’ve already mentioned, your pet may also hunch over and raise their behind. That posture tells you they want to play, and it’s up to you to respond.
The Body Language of an Alert Dog
Next, let’s discuss what dogs look like when they sense something unusual in their environment. A dog sensing their surroundings for anything that could be a threat is in the alert state.
A dog on the lookout for potential threats will have their ears pointed straight up. The ears pointing up may be less noticeable in certain breeds, but they still feel rigid whenever the dog is being mindful of their surroundings.
Alert canines also have wide, open eyes. You may also notice your dog pursing their lips while watching out for something. Although it’s not an example of body language, dogs on high alert may also release some low-sounding barks while in that state.
The Body Language of a Focused Dog
The body language of a focused dog closely resembles that of one who is on high alert. The positioning of their eyes, ears, and mouth may all be the same.
The only significant difference you may notice between alert and focused dogs is the positioning of their bodies. Alert dogs assume a position that allows them to respond no matter where the threat comes from. Meanwhile, a focused dog will point its body toward the object they are fixated on.
If you want to see what a focused dog looks like, you can grab your pet’s favorite tennis ball and hold it for a while. Your dog will stay in that position until you throw the ball.
The Body Language of an Uncomfortable Dog
You should always watch out for body language signs hinting that your dog is uncomfortable. Although discomfort may sometimes be caused by strangers nearby and other unknown entities, it may also be related to a more concerning issue. To be more specific, your dog may exhibit visible signs of discomfort because they are sick.
The signs to watch out for include ears pinned back and the head hanging low. You may also notice your pet’s tail tucked into their legs while they’re lying on the floor.
Other actions are indicators of a dog feeling uncomfortable. These include frequent lip licking and yawning. Your pet may scratch and shake off their fur constantly.
Take action as soon as you notice these distressing signs. Bring your pet to the veterinarian so you can determine the root cause of their discomfort.
The Body Language of an Aggressive Dog
Aggression is another emotion you never want to see in your pet’s body language. When a dog shows signs of aggression, it may only be a matter of time before they start engaging in harmful behavior. They may attack you or anyone nearby they perceive as a threat. It would be best to steer clear of an aggressive dog.
Hire a trainer if your pet often shows signs of aggression. Some dogs may get aggressive at the slightest provocation, and you cannot have that type of behavior in your household. Canine emotional regulation is a must in that situation because your dog can be dangerous otherwise.
Aggressive dogs will have their eyes fixed on their targets. They will also expose their teeth almost as if they’re warning you not to get closer. You may also notice their tail sticking straight up in the air.
The Body Language of a Submissive Dog
Canine body language can also be an indicator that your pet is submitting to your authority. In other words, they are displaying submissive body language.
You can tell that a dog no longer wants to challenge your authority based on the positioning of their eyes, ears, and tail. They may squint their eyes at you or even avoid direct eye contact. A submissive dog will also have their ears pinned back and their tail tucked between their legs.
Early in your relationship, your pet may also expose their belly to you as a sign of submission. As your relationship evolves, it may become a sign that they just want a belly rub.
Pay close attention to your dog’s body language because it can provide valuable insight into their emotions. You can also determine the need for canine emotional regulation based on your pet’s body language.
Want to deepen your bond with your furry friend? Master the art of canine communication by learning body language cues. Visit our Dog Training page at Tailored Pet Services for expert tips and guidance on understanding and responding to your dog’s non-verbal signals. Transform your relationship with your pet today!
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