Dog Body Language

Introduction

Dogs are masters of non-verbal communication. Unlike humans, who primarily rely on words, dogs communicate through body posture, facial expressions, and movement. To truly understand what your dog is trying to tell you—and to train, care for, and interact with them effectively—you must learn to “speak dog.”

This guide is designed for dog guardians, trainers, shelter workers, and anyone working closely with dogs. It breaks down each part of the dog’s body, helping you interpret their emotional state and intent based on visual cues.


Key Principles of Interpreting Body Language

  • No single feature tells the whole story. Always observe the entire body.
  • Context matters. A posture or movement may mean different things depending on the situation.
  • Baseline knowledge is crucial. Know your dog’s typical behavior so you can detect changes.
  • Early signs are subtle. Learning to identify low-level stress signals can prevent escalations.

1. Eyes

SignalMeaning
Soft EyesRelaxed, happy, emotionally calm
Hard StareThreat or assertiveness, often precedes aggression
HypervigilanceRapid scanning = arousal or anxiety
Avoidance GazeAppeasement, conflict-avoidance
Whale EyeWhite of the eye showing = fear or stress
SquintingRelaxed, submissive, or happy

2. Ears

Ear PositionInterpretation
Forward/ErectAlert, curious, or stimulated
RelaxedNeutral, emotionally calm
BackUncertain, appeasing
TuckedFearful, stressed
Airplane EarsConfused, unsure how to respond

3. Brow (Forehead and Eye Area)

AppearanceInterpretation
RelaxedNeutral, no stress present
FurrowedCuriosity, concern, or stress
TenseElevated stress or conflict

4. Coat

AppearanceMeaning
Normal CoatNeutral, check other signals for context
Piloerection (Hackles Raised)Arousal—can indicate fear, excitement, or aggression

5. Lips & Mouth

Mouth BehaviorMeaning
Neutral (closed or open, soft)Relaxed, stress-free
Tense LipsStress, uncertainty
Forward (C-shaped)Offensively aggressive
Pulled Back (V-shaped)Defensively aggressive
SnarlingClear space-increasing warning
Submissive GrinAppeasement, may signal anxious excitement
YawningStress (if contextually inappropriate)
Lip LickingStress or anticipation (context matters)

6. Body Posture and Movement

PostureMeaning
NeutralCalm, fluid, loose body movements
StillAlert, stalking, or threatening—high arousal
Raised (Tall)Confident, possibly challenging
LoweredFearful, appeasing, or preparing to pounce (context!)
Play BowInvitation to play, friendly intent
Submissive RollAppeasement, communicating no threat
Turning/Leaning AwayDisengagement or avoidance

7. Tail Position and Movement

Tail Position/MovementMeaning
Vertical (Stiff or Flagging)High arousal; potential precursor to aggression
Up and WaggingExcitement—check tail speed and stiffness
Mid-level (neutral)Relaxed, friendly, or unsure (if not wagging)
TuckedFear, stress, or submission
Fast WaggingHigh arousal; not always happy
Slow WaggingCurious, calm, or unsure
Stiff WaggingConflict, anxiety, or aggressive tension

Note: A wagging tail does not always indicate a happy dog. Consider speed, height, stiffness, and the dog’s overall posture.


Real-World Applications

  • Training: Use body language to know when to pause, reward, or redirect.
  • Socialization: Recognize stress early when introducing new dogs or people.
  • Vet Visits/Grooming: Spot fear before it escalates to reactivity.
  • Shelter/Rescue Work: Understand dogs’ emotional state in a high-stress environment.

Recommended Videos and Resources


Final Notes

  • Observe the whole dog and the full situation.
  • Learn your own dog’s norms to spot red flags early.
  • The earlier you detect stress signals, the better you can support your dog.

Understanding canine body language is not just a skill—it’s a bridge to trust, safety, and stronger relationships with our dogs.