Understanding Canine Body Language: How to Read Your Dog Like a Pro
Dogs communicate primarily through body language, but many owners misinterpret or overlook these signals. Understanding canine communication can help prevent behavioural issues, strengthen your bond, and keep you and your pet safe.
As a pet care professional, I’ve seen how subtle shifts in posture, facial expression, and movement can indicate how a dog is feeling. Here’s a deep dive into canine body language and how to read your dog like an expert.
1. Recognising Signs of Stress vs. Excitement
Dogs express emotions through their entire bodies, but excitement and stress can sometimes look similar. Knowing the difference helps prevent unwanted behaviours and improves your response.
Signs of a Happy, Relaxed Dog:
Loose, wiggly body posture
Tail held in a neutral position, wagging freely
Soft, relaxed eyes (often blinking or half-closed)
Open mouth with a relaxed tongue
Playful bouncing or “play bows”
Signs of a Stressed or Anxious Dog:
⚠️ Stiff posture, tense muscles
⚠️ Tail tucked or rigidly wagging
⚠️ Yawning, lip licking, or excessive blinking (calming signals)
⚠️ Ears pinned back or hyper-alert
⚠️ Panting when not hot or thirsty
Pro Tip: If your dog suddenly tenses up or exhibits calming signals, assess their environment—there may be something making them uncomfortable!
2. Subtle Warning Signs Before a Growl or Bite
Many people assume that a dog “bit without warning,” but dogs always give signals before escalating to aggression. Recognising these early signs can prevent bites and help you remove your dog from stressful situations.
Warning Signs of Discomfort:
🚩 Turning their head away or avoiding eye contact
🚩 Freezing in place (a sign of high tension)
🚩 Stiff, raised posture with a closed mouth
🚩 Growling or low, warning barks
🚩 Exposing the whites of their eyes (whale eye)
What to Do: If you notice these signs, don’t push your dog further. Give them space and address the source of their discomfort calmly.
3. Tail Wagging Myths: A Wagging Tail Doesn’t Always Mean Happiness
Many people assume a wagging tail equals a happy dog, but tail wags can mean many different things depending on their speed, height, and stiffness.
Tail Positions & Their Meanings:
High, stiff wagging – Aroused or alert (could mean confidence OR potential aggression)
Low, slow wag – Cautious or unsure, often a sign of submission
Loose, mid-level wag – Relaxed and friendly
Tucked tail – Fear, anxiety, or submission
Tip: Don’t just look at the tail—check the whole body to determine your dog’s true mood.
4. How Dogs Communicate with Other Dogs vs. Humans
Dogs have an entirely different way of speaking to other dogs compared to how they communicate with humans.
How Dogs Communicate with Each Other:
Play bows – A friendly invitation to play
Paw lifting – Can signal uncertainty or submission
Sniffing & turning away – A way to diffuse tension
Muzzle licking – A submissive greeting
How Dogs Communicate with Humans:
Leaning against you – Seeking comfort or trust
Exposing belly (with relaxed body) – Asking for affection
Bringing you a toy – Could mean “let’s play” or “I trust you”
Whale eye or lip licking – Potential stress signals, not necessarily affection
Understanding these differences helps build a better relationship with your pup!
Learning to read your dog’s body language makes you a more responsible and connected pet owner. The more you observe their subtle signals, the better you’ll understand their needs, emotions, and comfort levels.
Next time you’re with your dog, pay attention to their posture, tail, and facial expressions—what are they trying to tell you?