Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language

Susan Davis
Jul 23
2 min read

Updated: Aug 5

As dog owners, we often wish our furry companions could tell us exactly how they’re feeling. While they may not use words, dogs communicate clearly through body language. Learning to interpret their signals can strengthen your bond and help you meet their needs more effectively. Here’s a guide to decoding your dog’s body language:

Tail Talk

Your dog’s tail is one of the most expressive parts of their body, offering insights into their emotions:

Relaxed Wag: A slow wag with a broad sweep means your dog is content and friendly.
Fast Wag: A quick, stiff wag can signal excitement - or even agitation, depending on the context.
High Tail: Confidence or alertness.
Tucked Tail: Fear, submission, or stress.

Eyes That Speak Volumes

A dog’s eyes are a window into their emotions:

Soft Gaze: Indicates relaxation and trust.
Direct Eye Contact: Shows confidence or trust, though prolonged staring can feel intimidating to some dogs.
Avoiding Eye Contact: Suggests fear, anxiety, or submission.
Wide Eyes (“Whale Eye”): A sign of stress or discomfort.
Squinting or Blinking Slowly: Often signals affection or a playful mood.

Ear Expressions

The position of your dog’s ears can reveal a lot about their mood and intentions:

Ears Forward: Shows alertness or curiosity.
Ears Flattened Back: Indicates fear, submission, or nervousness.
Ears Relaxed or Slightly Back: Suggests a calm and neutral state.

Posture and Movement

The way your dog carries and moves their body says a lot about how they feel:

Relaxed Body: Loose, wiggly movements signal a happy and comfortable dog.
Play Bow: Lowering the front legs while keeping the back up invites you or other dogs to play.
Rigid Posture: Suggests stress, fear, or aggression.
Cowering or Lowered Body: Indicates submission or fear.

Vocalizations

While not body language, a dog’s vocalizations are an important part of their communication:

Barking: Can mean excitement, alertness, or a warning, depending on pitch and context.
Whining: Usually indicates anxiety, discomfort, or a desire for attention.
Growling: A clear signal to give them space or stop what you’re doing.