Understanding Your Dog's Body Language

Being able to understand your dog's **body language** is key to building a strong relationship and preventing miscommunication. Dogs communicate primarily through **body movements, facial expressions, and posture**—here’s how to interpret them:

1. **Tail Position & Movement**

A dog’s **tail position and movement** can reveal a lot about their emotional state:

- A **relaxed, wagging tail** usually signals happiness.

- A **low or tucked tail** may indicate fear or submission.

- A **stiff, high tail** can mean excitement or dominance.

2. **Ear Position**

Dogs move their **ears** to express emotions:

- **Ears forward** often show curiosity or alertness.

- **Flattened ears** can indicate fear, stress, or submission.

- **One ear up, one ear down** may mean confusion or uncertainty.

3. **Eye Contact & Expression**

A dog’s **eyes** give away their emotions:

- **Soft, relaxed eyes** indicate contentment and friendliness.

- **Direct, intense staring** can be a sign of dominance or threat.

- **Squinting or blinking** may mean submission or an attempt to avoid conflict.

4. **Body Posture & Stance**

A dog’s stance tells you how they feel:

- A **loose, wiggly body** shows relaxation and comfort.

- A **stiff body with weight shifted forward** could signal alertness or aggression.

- A **lowered body with tucked tail** suggests nervousness or fear.

5. **Facial Expressions & Mouth Movements**

Dogs use their **faces** to communicate:

- **Relaxed mouth, slightly open** = calm and comfortable.

- **Lip licking or yawning** (when not tired) can be a sign of stress.

- **Baring teeth** isn’t always aggression—sometimes it’s a submissive “grin.”

By paying attention to these **signals**, you can better understand what your dog is feeling and respond accordingly. **The more you observe, the stronger your bond will be!**