Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language: A Guide from Tribe Mobile Vets

At Tribe Mobile Vets, we believe that understanding your dog's body language is essential for fostering a strong bond and ensuring their well-being. Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and by learning to interpret their signals, you can better respond to their needs and emotions.

🐾 Tail Talk: Decoding Wagging and Position

High and Wagging Tail: Indicates excitement or confidence. A tail held high and wagging rapidly often signifies a happy dog.
Low or Tucked Tail: Suggests fear, anxiety, or submission. A tail held low or tucked between the legs is a sign your dog is feeling uncomfortable or threatened.
Neutral Tail Position: A tail held in a neutral position, extending out from the spine, typically indicates a relaxed and content dog.

👂Ear Positions: Listening to Their Signals

Ears Forward: Signify alertness or interest. Dogs with ears perked up are attentive and engaged with their surroundings.
Ears Back or Flattened: Can indicate fear, anxiety, or submission. Flattened ears may also be a sign of aggression if combined with other warning signals.
Relaxed Ears: Ears in a natural, relaxed position suggest your dog is calm and comfortable.

🐶 Posture and Movement: Reading the Body

Relaxed Posture: A loose, wiggly body with weight evenly distributed indicates a happy and relaxed dog.
Stiff or Tense Body: May signal stress, fear, or aggression. A dog standing rigidly with muscles tensed is likely feeling threatened.
Play Bow: Front legs stretched forward, rear end up, often accompanied by a wagging tail and playful barking, is an invitation to play.

😊 Facial Expressions: The Window to Emotions

Soft Eyes and Relaxed Mouth: Indicate a content and friendly dog. Soft eyes may appear as squinting, and a relaxed mouth might be slightly open.
Hard Stare or Whale Eyes: A hard stare or showing the whites of the eyes (whale eyes) can be a sign of discomfort, fear, or aggression.
Lip Licking and Yawning: When not associated with eating or tiredness, these behaviours can be signs of stress or anxiety.

🐕 Recognising Emotional States

Happy and Relaxed Dog:

Tail wagging in a neutral position
Ears relaxed
Soft eyes
Loose body posture

Playful Dog:

Play bow stance
Wagging tail
Open mouth, possibly with playful barking

Anxious or Fearful Dog:

Tail tucked
Ears back
Avoiding eye contact
Lip licking or yawning

Aggressive or Threatened Dog:

Stiff body posture
Ears forward
Hard stare
Raised hackles