How to Interpret Your Dog’s Body Language

Dogs. We love them, and they love us. Sometimes, our dogs seem to know our feelings better than we do, intuitively knowing when to give us extra snuggles and puppy kisses. Unfortunately, we don’t always understand our dogs as well as they understand us. 

Without words, dogs speak to us and to other dogs through body language. Learning what dogs are telling us with their fuzzy ears and fluffy tails can help us to avoid aggression, keep our pups healthy and take our bond with them to the next level. Keep reading to uncover the most common dog signals and what they mean.

What it looks like: Ears up, firm stance, tail relaxed

What it means: What’s that? 

Dogs consider it their job to be aware, keeping their favorite hoomans out of trouble.

The “alert” position isn’t aggressive. It’s just a sign that they hear, see or smell something, and they’re waiting to see if it’s a friend, a squirrel or an intruder.

What it looks like: Ears up, tail up, fur raised, firm stance, sometimes leaning towards perceived threat

What it means: Someone’s there! Who is it? Do we like them? I’m not so sure about this…

While raised fur doesn’t always mean aggressive behavior will happen, it’s a warning sign that it’s time to de-escalate the situation. If your dog starts to behave like this around another dog, calmly walk them in the other direction to allow them the space they need. 

If an off-leash dog approaches you like this, but without growling or other signs of aggression, don’t try to pet the dog, yell or wave your arms. Instead, talk quietly to the dog, avoid eye contact, hold your ground and allow the dog to sniff you. If this scares you, slowly walk away from the dog without turning your back to it.

What it looks like: Ears back, back rounded, tail between legs, sometimes whining

What it means: I’m uncomfortable. Help me, hooman!

Just like us, our dogs can feel worried or scared. Anything from fireworks, to the vacuum cleaner, to an afternoon alone can spark a bout of anxiety, but the causes of anxiety can also be complicated. Some breeds are more anxiety-prone than others, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. 

If your dog exhibits the anxiety position, or frequently pants, paces or demonstrates destructive behavior, the best course of action is to speak with your vet. He or she will make sure there are no underlying health issues and recommend a treatment plan. Solutions may include medication, situation avoidance and behavioral training. In the meantime, extra-long walks can help alleviate the tension!

What it looks like: Ears back, back rounded, tail down or between legs, barking

What it means: Stay away from meeee!

A dog that’s threatened doesn’t want to hurt anyone. They’re simply shouting, “Don’t come any closer! I’m warning you!” 

This behavior is rooted in fear. Discourage the behavior by avoiding triggers. To prevent barking at other dogs on walks, for example, turn to walk in the opposite direction or cross the street when you see a dog coming towards you. At home, close the blinds, so your dog can’t see other dogs or people walking by.