Dog's Body Language

Dog Body Language

Dogs use body language as a way to tell us how they feel. Learning to read body language will help you determine if the dog is in a friendly mood or should be left alone.

The following are some body language signs to look for and what the dog may be trying to tell you. Some body postures can have more than one meaning. For example, erect ears may mean that the dog is happy, excited, confident, aggressive or interested. For this reason, keep in mind that this information is not absolute but can be used as a guide.

" Happy Dog - This dog will have his mouth open as if he’s smiling. His tail will wag and his body may wiggle because he’s just so happy "

Angry Dog - "This dog’s body will often be as stiff as a board. When a dog is angry, you can see the whites of his eyes when he stares at you. Another early warning sign is a little curling up of the lip. Sometimes the hackles (fur on the top of the shoulders and above the tail) will be raised. The tail will be stiff, too – just like a flagpole. A really angry dog will even show his teeth and growl. "

Frightened / Scared Dog - "This dog’s body will be crouched and low to the ground, with his tail tucked down below his back. Sometimes the hackles (fur on the top of the shoulders and above the tail) will be raised. He may even try to run away, but if he is unable to run, he may try to bite. If this dog gets too scared, he may growl or bite. If he feels threatened, he may bite as a self-defense mechanism."

Remember, any dog can bite – regardless of whether or not he warns you with a certain body posture, growl or bark.