Have you ever wished you could talk to your four-legged family members? Dogs may not speak our language, but they can still tell us what they’re thinking and feeling. We just have to read their body language, which is easier than you may think.
Understanding how your dog communicates is the foundation of a strong bond. When your best friend knows you’ll listen to their emotional signals, it helps build trust, nurture confidence and deepen your connection.
It’s important to keep in mind that context is key. Similar behaviors can have different meanings, depending on the situation. Make sure to pay attention to what’s happening around your dog, along with their body language.
In general, soft, loose body language means your dog feels happy and relaxed. If they appear tense or stiff, they may be stressed, fearful or uncomfortable. By studying your pup in different situations, you can pick up on the nuances of their behavior to better understand them.
Here are 12 common dog behaviors and what they mean, according to our pet wellness experts.
● WAGGING TAIL: Often a sign of happiness, especially when accompanied by a loose, wiggly body. But not always – a high, stiff wagging tail signals alertness, and a lowered wagging tail shows submissiveness.
● SOFT EYES & LOOSE MOUTH: Signs your dog feels happy, relaxed and comfortable.
● HARD EYES & TENSE MOUTH: Signs your dog feels stressed or is intently focused on something. Don’t approach a dog with a hard stare.
● YAWNING: Natural if your pup is tired or waking up from a nap. If wide awake, a yawn can signal they’re feeling stressed or worried.
● LICKING LIPS: A sign of stress or uncertainty, unless they’re excitedly awaiting a meal.
● SHAKING OFF: A dry dog will shake their body (like a wet dog drying off) after an uncomfortable or stressful situation – they’re “shaking off” the anxiety. They may also “shake off” to reset after an intense play session or massage, even if they enjoyed it.
● SNEEZING: Can be caused by allergies or irritants. Dogs also sneeze when they’re excited or to release stress.
● BELLY UP: When a relaxed or playful dog rolls onto their back, they’re inviting a belly rub. If a tense or stiff dog exposes their tummy (especially if their tail is tucked), they’re feeling nervous or uncomfortable and are politely asking for space.
● RAISED HACKLES: When the hair on your dog’s back rises and sticks up, they’re likely feeling excited or scared. A dog’s hackles may also rise when they’re cold.
● PLAY BOW: When a happy dog lowers their front legs to the ground in a bow position. Signals an invitation to play and is commonly accompanied by a wagging tail and wiggly hips. Dogs may play bow to other animals and people.
● LICKING PAWS: Occasional licking is normal for dogs to clean themselves. But excessive licking can be a sign of pain, allergies or stress.
● WHALE EYE: When a tense dog shows the whites of their eyes (known as “whale eye”), they’re feeling uncomfortable or stressed. Certain breeds may naturally show the whites of their eyes, even when happy or calm, and most dogs reveal them briefly when turning their heads.
If you notice signs of stress, help your dog by identifying and alleviating the source of anxiety. This may mean giving your dog space, feeding them a treat to reward calm behavior, moving away from a stressor, using your body as a visual barrier or redirecting your dog by cueing a well-practiced trick.
Never punish your dog for showing signs of stress. If they growl, bark, back away or signal discomfort, they’re trying to communicate, which is a positive thing! Show them you’re listening by assessing the situation, figuring out what they need and helping them feel calm.
Understanding your best friend’s body language can help you grow even closer. The more you listen, the more your dog will trust that you’ll always have their back – giving them more confidence to navigate the world by your side.