Canine Body Language Signals Guide

Canine Body Language Signals Guide by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP.

Understanding canine body language is an essential skill for dog owners, trainers, and anyone who interacts with dogs. Dogs communicate their emotions, intentions, and desires through a complex system of body language signals. By learning to recognize and interpret these signals, we can better understand our furry companions and respond to their needs more effectively. This article will explore various categories of canine body language signals, including stress signals, calming signals, distance-increasing signals, appeasement signals, distance-decreasing signals, play signals, tail position signals, tail-wagging signals, barking signals, and other vocalizations. We will provide detailed descriptions of each signal to help you become more proficient in decoding your dog’s body language. While this article has no images, there are several resources at the end of this article to familiarize yourself with the various illustrations, photographs, and videos of canine body language. If you are really wanting to understand canine body language take the online canine body language course for pet professionals.

Interpreting Canine Body Language must be done in Context. Understanding Ambiguity and the Importance of Contextual Cues. Decoding canine body language can sometimes be a complex and challenging task. This is because certain signals may have multiple meanings and can fall into various categories depending on the context in which they occur. Consequently, it is essential to consider the broader context and other body language cues when interpreting a dog’s emotions and intentions to avoid miscommunication and misunderstandings.

One of the reasons why canine body language signals can be difficult to interpret is the inherent ambiguity in some of these signals. For example, tail wagging can indicate friendliness and a desire to engage stress, or even excitement and playfulness. Similarly, a dog turning its head away can be a calming signal, showing that the dog is non-threatening, or it may indicate stress or discomfort in a specific situation.

To accurately interpret a dog’s body language, it is crucial to observe not only the specific signal but also other body language cues, the dog’s overall demeanor, and the context in which the behavior occurs. For instance, the presence of other dogs, people, or environmental factors can influence a dog’s emotions and behavior, ultimately affecting the meaning behind their body language signals.

Consider the following tips when interpreting canine body language:

Look for patterns: Assess the dog’s behavior over time and in various situations to identify consistent patterns or signals that can help you better understand their emotions and intentions.
Observe other body language cues: Pay attention to the dog’s entire body, including their eyes, ears, posture, and facial expressions, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their emotional state.
Evaluate the environment: Consider external factors that could influence the dog’s behavior, such as unfamiliar settings, the presence of other animals, or loud noises.
Be mindful of breed-specific differences: Some dog breeds may display unique body language signals or have physical traits that affect their ability to communicate. For example, breeds with naturally curly tails or cropped ears may display different tail and ear postures than those with straight tails and natural ears.
Stay attuned to your dog’s individual personality: Each dog has its unique personality and communication style, so it is essential to consider your dog’s individual characteristics when interpreting their body language.

Understanding canine body language requires considering the context, observing the dog’s entire body, and being mindful of the unique traits and personalities of individual dogs. By doing so, you can better decipher the meaning behind ambiguous signals and enhance your communication with your canine companion, ultimately fostering a stronger bond and ensuring their well-being.

1.) Stress Signals:

Yawning: Dogs yawn when they are stressed or uncomfortable. The yawn may be prolonged and more exaggerated than a typical yawn.
Panting: A dog may pant when stressed, even if it’s not hot or they haven’t been exercising.
Lip licking: Dogs may repeatedly lick their lips when they feel anxious or nervous.
Pinned-back ears: A dog’s ears may be pinned back against their head when they are stressed.
Sweaty paws: Dogs can sweat through their paw pads when they are stressed or anxious.
Tail tucked: A tucked tail, often between the legs, can indicate stress, fear, or submission.
Whale eye: This occurs when a dog turns its head away but keeps its eyes on the source of stress, showing the whites of their eyes (sclera).
Furrowed brow: A dog may furrow its brow when feeling stressed, creating wrinkles on their forehead.
Shivering or trembling: Dogs may shake or tremble when they are stressed or frightened, even if they’re not cold.
Pacing or restlessness: Stressed dogs may pace, circle, or have difficulty settling down.
Dilated pupils: When a dog is stressed or anxious, their pupils may dilate, making their eyes appear larger and darker.
Refusal of food or treats: A stressed, or anxious dog may refuse food or treats, even if they would typically accept them eagerly.

Additional Stress Signals:

Cowering: A dog may crouch down low to the ground or attempt to make themselves appear smaller when they feel stressed or frightened.
Avoidance: Stressed dogs may attempt to avoid the source of their stress by turning away, hiding, or moving to a different location.
Flattened body: A dog may press their body close to the ground as a sign of stress, fear, or submission.
Stiffening or freezing: A stressed dog might suddenly become very still or rigid as if they are “freezing” in place.
Excessive shedding: Dogs can shed more than usual when they are stressed or anxious.
Hypervigilance: A stressed dog might become hyperalert, scanning their environment for potential threats and reacting to even the smallest stimuli.
Excessive drooling: Some dogs may drool excessively when they are stressed, even if they are not anticipating food.
Vocalizations: Dogs may produce stress-related vocalizations such as whining, whimpering, or low growling.
Sudden scratching or grooming: A dog might suddenly scratch or groom themselves when stressed, even if they do not have an itch or need grooming.
Air snapping: A stressed dog may snap at the air without making contact with anyone or anything as a warning or to relieve stress.
Chattering teeth: Some dogs may chatter their teeth when stressed, which can be a sign of anxiety or fear.
Excessive self-licking: Dogs might lick themselves excessively when stressed, potentially leading to skin irritation or hot spots.
Jumpiness or startle response: Stressed dogs may become more sensitive to sudden noises or movements, reacting with a heightened startle response.
Bowel or bladder accidents: A stressed dog may have accidents indoors, even if they are house-trained, due to the emotional pressure they are experiencing.
Displacement behaviors: Stressed dogs may engage in behaviors that seem out of context or unrelated to the situation, such as sniffing the ground, pawing at objects, or focusing on a toy when they are usually indifferent.
Inability to focus: Stress can make it difficult for a dog to pay attention or follow commands, even if they are well-trained.
Clinginess: Stressed dogs might become excessively clingy or needy, seeking reassurance and comfort from their owners or familiar people.
Excessive barking: Some dogs may bark excessively when they are stressed or anxious as a way to express their emotional state or seek attention.
Escape attempts: A stressed dog may try to escape a situation they find overwhelming or frightening, such as digging under a fence or attempting to break free from a leash.

2.) Calming Signals:

Softening eyes: A dog may make their eyes appear softer and less intense to show they are non-threatening.
Slow blinking: Dogs may slowly blink to signal they are not a threat and are trying to calm the situation.
Turning the head away: A dog may turn their head away to avoid direct eye contact, signaling they are non-threatening.
Sitting or lying down: Dogs may sit or lie down to show they are not a threat and are trying to calm the situation.
Sniffing the ground: Dogs may suddenly sniff the ground to signal they are not interested in confrontation.
Play bow: This involves a dog lowering their front end while keeping their rear end raised, signaling they want to engage in friendly play.
“Shake off”: A dog might perform a full-body shake, similar to when they are wet, as a way to release tension and signal their intent to calm the situation.

Additional Calming Signals:

Lifting a paw: A dog may lift one paw off the ground to indicate they are non-threatening and attempting to diffuse tension.
Curving the body: A dog might approach another dog or person in a curved, non-linear path to show they are friendly and non-threatening.
Yawning: A dog may yawn in a tense situation to display non-aggression and attempt to calm the environment.
Lip licking: Dogs might lick their lips in the presence of other dogs or humans to signal they are non-threatening and trying to de-escalate the situation.
Wagging the tail in a low, wide arc: A dog that wags its tail in a low, wide arc is often displaying friendly intentions and trying to calm the situation.
Offering the side or back: A dog may present its side or back to another dog or person to show they are not a threat and are trying to calm the situation.
Rolling onto the back: A dog rolling onto its back can be a calming signal, exposing their vulnerable belly to show submission and non-threatening intentions.
Blinking or looking away: A dog may blink or look away from the source of tension to avoid direct eye contact and signal they are not a threat.
Sighing: A dog may emit a deep, relaxed sigh to signal they are at ease, which can have a calming effect on other dogs or people nearby.
Stretching: A dog might stretch their body or legs in a relaxed manner to show they are comfortable and not a threat, helping to calm the situation.
Taking treats gently: A dog may take treats gently from a person’s hand to demonstrate they are non-threatening and calm.
Slow, deliberate movements: A dog might move slowly and deliberately, avoiding sudden or quick movements, to signal they are non-threatening and are attempting to keep the situation calm.
Gentle nuzzling or sniffing: A dog may gently nuzzle or sniff another dog or person to demonstrate friendly intentions and help calm the situation.
Relaxed ears: A dog with relaxed, neutral ears is signaling they are comfortable and non-threatening, which can have a calming effect on others.
Gentle tail wagging: A dog wagging their tail slowly and gently can signal they are non-threatening and friendly, helping to calm the situation.
Relaxed mouth: A dog with a relaxed, slightly open mouth is signaling they are comfortable and non-threatening, contributing to a calmer atmosphere.

3.) Distance Increasing Signals:

Growling: A low, guttural sound that signals a dog’s discomfort or irritation and serves as a warning.
Baring teeth: Dogs may show their teeth as a warning to back off or give them space.
Snarling: A combination of growling and baring teeth, this is a clear warning signal.
Hard stare: A dog may give a direct, intense stare to communicate their discomfort and assert their dominance.
Raising hackles: A dog’s hair may stand up along their spine when they feel threatened or defensive.
Stiff body posture: A rigid posture can indicate a dog is feeling threatened and may take action if pushed further.

Additional Distance Increasing Signals:

Lunging: A dog might lunge towards another dog or person, stopping short of making contact, as a warning to back off and maintain distance.
Barking aggressively: Aggressive or loud barking, often accompanied by a stiff body posture or other warning signals, can indicate a dog wants more space.
Raised tail: A dog may raise its tail stiffly, either straight up or arched over their back, to signal dominance and assertiveness, demanding more distance.
Standing tall: A dog may try to make themselves appear larger by standing tall and puffing out their chest, signaling they want more distance.
Quick head turn: A dog might turn their head quickly towards the perceived threat as a warning to back off and create distance.
Stamping or scraping the ground: A dog may stamp or scrape the ground with their front or hind paws to communicate their dominance and demand more space.
Blocking or body-checking: A dog may use their body to block access to another dog or person, pushing them away to create more distance.
Low growl: A dog may emit a low, rumbling growl when approached, signaling their discomfort and desire for more distance.
Snap or air bite: A dog may snap or air bite without making contact, as a warning to back off and maintain distance.

4.) Appeasement Signals:

Licking: A dog may lick another dog’s face or a person’s hand to show submission and appeasement.
Low tail wag: A slow, low wagging tail can indicate a dog is trying to appease a more dominant individual.
Submissive grin: A dog may show a submissive grin by lifting their lips and showing their teeth in a non-aggressive manner.
Rolling over: A dog may roll onto their back, exposing their belly, to show submission and appeasement.

Additional Appeasement Signals:

Crouching: A dog might crouch down low to the ground to show submission and appeasement towards another dog or person.
Tucked tail: A dog may tuck their tail between their legs, often covering their genitals, to demonstrate submission and appeasement.
Averting gaze: A dog could avoid making direct eye contact by looking away, signaling submission and appeasement.
Ears back: A dog may pin their ears back against their head to show submission and appeasement.
Offering a paw: A dog might lift and offer a paw to another dog or person as a gesture of submission and appeasement.
Flattened body: A dog could press their body close to the ground, making themselves appear smaller, to signal submission and appeasement.
Urination: A dog may display submissive urination, especially when greeting or interacting with a more dominant individual, as a sign of appeasement.
Chewing or mouthing: A dog might gently chew or mouth another dog’s muzzle or a person’s hand as a sign of submission and appeasement.

5.) Distance Decreasing Signals:

Tail wagging: A high, fast wagging tail can signal a dog is friendly and wants to engage.
Relaxed body posture: A dog with a relaxed posture and soft eyes may be trying to decrease distance and engage with others.
Play bow: This signals the dog wants to engage in friendly play and decrease the distance between themselves and others.
Curving approach: A dog may approach another dog or person in a curving, non-linear path to signal they are friendly and want to decrease the distance between them.
Nose-to-nose greeting: Dogs may touch noses as a friendly greeting, signaling they want to be closer.
Leaning or nudging: A dog may lean into or nudge another dog or person to show their desire for closeness or attention.
Offering a paw: A dog may lift a paw and offer it to another dog or person to signal they want to engage and decrease the distance between them.

Additional Distance Decreasing Signals:

Playful hopping or bouncing: A dog might hop or bounce around in a playful manner, signaling their desire to engage and decrease the distance between themselves and others.
Gentle tail wagging: A dog may wag their tail in a gentle, relaxed manner to show they are friendly and want to decrease the distance between themselves and others.
Vocalizing: A dog could make friendly vocalizations, such as whining or soft barks, to signal their desire to engage and decrease the distance between them and others.
Rubbing or nuzzling: A dog might rub or nuzzle against another dog or person to show their desire for closeness and interaction.
Engaging in mutual grooming: Dogs may engage in mutual grooming, such as licking each other’s faces or ears, as a way to bond and decrease the distance between them.
Circling: A dog may circle around another dog or person, sniffing and wagging their tail, as a friendly greeting and a sign that they want to decrease the distance between them.
Offering a toy: A dog might bring a toy to another dog or person, inviting them to play and engage, signaling their desire to decrease the distance between them.
Swaying walk: A dog could walk with a swaying, relaxed gait towards another dog or person to show they are friendly and want to decrease the distance between them.

6.) Play Signals:

Play bow: A dog lowers their front end while keeping their rear end raised, signaling they want to engage in friendly play.
Bouncing: A dog may bounce up and down, often with a loose and wiggly body, to invite play. c) Chasing and running: Dogs may initiate chase and running games to engage in play with other dogs or people.
Light nipping or mouthing: Dogs may gently nip or mouth at another dog or person during play, without causing harm.
Pawing: A dog may paw at another dog or person to invite play and show they are friendly.
Vocalizing: Dogs may make playful noises, such as barking or grunting, to invite play and communicate their excitement.

Additional Play Signals:

Playful growling: A dog may emit a low, non-threatening growl during play, signaling their excitement and engagement in the activity.
Tug-of-war: A dog might initiate a game of tug-of-war by offering a toy or rope to another dog or person, inviting them to play.
Fetch: A dog could show interest in playing fetch by bringing a ball or toy and dropping it near another dog or person, indicating their desire to play.
Zoomies: Dogs may engage in spontaneous bursts of energy, running around in circles or fast, erratic patterns to signal their excitement and playful mood.
Rolling on the ground: A dog might roll on the ground or expose their belly during play, inviting others to join in the fun.
Playful pouncing: A dog may pounce on a toy or playfully pounce towards another dog or person to initiate play.
Swaying or wiggly body: A dog could display a swaying or wiggly body during play, indicating their excitement and desire to engage with others.

7.) Tail Position Signals:

High tail:
A tail held high can indicate arousal, alertness, or dominance. A high, stiff tail can also signal aggression.
Neutral tail: A tail held in a neutral position, neither raised nor lowered, usually indicates a dog is relaxed and content.
Low tail: A tail held low, near or below the level of the dog’s body, can indicate uncertainty, anxiety, or submission.
Tucked tail: A tail tucked between the legs often signals fear, stress, or submission.

8.) Tail Wagging Signals:

Fast, high wag: A high, fast wagging tail usually indicates excitement and happiness. However, it can also signal arousal or assertiveness, especially if the tail is held stiffly.
Loose, wide wag: A tail that wags in a wide, loose arc often indicates a friendly and relaxed dog.
Low, slow wag: A low, slow wagging tail can signal uncertainty, insecurity, or appeasement. This type of wag is usually accompanied by submissive body language.
Tail wagging with full-body movement: When a dog’s entire body wiggles along with their tail, it usually indicates they are happy and excited to see someone.
Tail wagging to one side: A tail wagging predominantly to one side can carry different meanings. If the tail is wagging more to the dog’s right, it can signal positive emotions, such as happiness or interest. If the tail is wagging more to the dog’s left, it can signal negative emotions, such as anxiety or caution.

9.) Barking Signals:

Alarm bark: Sharp, loud barks often indicate a dog is alerting to something they perceive as a potential threat, such as an unknown person approaching their territory.
Attention-seeking bark: A high-pitched, repetitive bark can signal a dog is seeking attention or wants something from their owner, such as food, play, or to be let outside.
Playful bark: A higher-pitched, lighter bark usually indicates a dog is excited and wants to engage in play.
Frustration bark: A lower-pitched, repetitive bark can signal a dog is frustrated or agitated, often due to being unable to reach a desired object or person.
Fear bark: A high-pitched, rapid series of barks can indicate a dog is afraid and trying to warn off a perceived threat.

10.) Other Vocalizations:

Howling: Howling is a form of long-distance communication for dogs. It can be triggered by loneliness, the presence of other dogs or animals, or as a response to sirens or other high-pitched sounds. Howling can convey various messages, including calling out to other dogs, asserting their presence, or seeking companionship.
Whining: Whining is a high-pitched vocalization that can indicate a variety of emotions, such as stress, anxiety, discomfort, or a need for attention. Dogs may whine when they want something, like food or play, or when they are separated from their owners.
Crying: Crying can be similar to whining in pitch and may indicate pain, discomfort, or distress. Dogs may cry if they are physically injured or if they are experiencing emotional distress.
Whimpering: Whimpering is a softer, more subtle vocalization that can signal fear, stress, or submission. Dogs may whimper when they are in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation or when they are unsure of how to respond to a perceived threat.

Canine Body Language Signals Can Fall Into Multiple Categories:

Some canine body language signals can fall into multiple categories, depending on the context and other body language cues. Here are a few examples:

Tail wagging:

Distance Decreasing Signal: A gentle, relaxed tail wag can indicate a friendly and non-threatening demeanor, signaling a desire to decrease the distance between the dog and others.
Stress Signal: A low, slow wag with a tense body can indicate stress or uncertainty.
Play Signal: A fast, high tail wag combined with a loose, wiggly body can signal excitement and an invitation to play.

Pawing:

Play Signal: A dog may paw at another dog or person to invite play and show they are friendly.
Distance Decreasing Signal: A dog may lift a paw and offer it to another dog or person to signal they want to engage and decrease the distance between them.

Vocalizing:

Distance Increasing Signal: Aggressive or loud barking can indicate a dog wants more space.
Play Signal: Dogs may make playful noises, such as barking or grunting, to invite play and communicate their excitement.
Distance Decreasing Signal: A dog could make friendly vocalizations, such as whining or soft barks, to signal their desire to engage and decrease the distance between them and others.

Offering a paw:

Distance Decreasing Signal: A dog may lift a paw and offer it to another dog or person to signal they want to engage and decrease the distance between them.
Appeasement Signal: A dog might lift and offer a paw to another dog or person as a gesture of submission and appeasement.

Nipping or mouthing:

Play Signal: Dogs may gently nip or mouth at another dog or person during play, without causing harm.
Appeasement Signal: A dog might gently chew or mouth another dog’s muzzle or a person’s hand as a sign of submission and appeasement.

Ears back:

Stress Signal: A dog’s ears may be pinned back against their head when they are stressed.
Appeasement Signal: A dog may pin their ears back against their head to show submission and appeasement.

Licking:

Stress Signal: Dogs may repeatedly lick their lips when they feel anxious or nervous.
Appeasement Signal: A dog may lick another dog’s face or a person’s hand to show submission and appeasement.

Yawning:

Stress Signal: Dogs yawn when they are stressed or uncomfortable. The yawn may be prolonged and more exaggerated than a typical yawn.
Calming Signal: A dog might yawn as a way to self-soothe and calm themselves down in a stressful situation, as well as to communicate their non-threatening intentions to others.

Turning the head away:

Calming Signal: A dog may turn their head away to avoid direct eye contact, signaling they are non-threatening and trying to calm the situation.
Stress Signal: Turning the head away may also be a sign of discomfort as the dog tries to avoid a perceived threat or an unpleasant stimulus.

Sniffing the ground:

Calming Signal: Dogs may suddenly sniff the ground to signal they are not interested in confrontation, thereby trying to calm the situation.
Stress Signal: Sniffing the ground can also be a displacement behavior, indicating the dog is feeling anxious or uncertain about their surroundings.

Sitting or lying down:

Calming Signal: Dogs may sit or lie down to show they are not a threat and are trying to calm the situation.
Stress Signal: Sitting or lying down could also be a sign of stress, especially when the dog is tense and refuses to move in response to a stressful situation or stimulus.

It’s crucial to consider the context and other body language cues when interpreting a dog’s emotions and intentions, as these signals can vary between individual dogs and situations.

Canine body language is a rich and nuanced form of communication that allows dogs to express their emotions and intentions. By understanding the various signals and cues presented in this article, you will be better equipped to interpret your dog’s behavior and foster a stronger bond with your canine companion. Remember, it is essential to consider the context and other body language cues when interpreting a dog’s emotions and intentions, as these signals can vary between individual dogs and situations. It’s also important to keep in mind that some signals can fall into multiple categories, and their meaning may change depending on the circumstances. By becoming more attuned to your dog’s body language, you can enhance communication, ensure their well-being, and create a more harmonious relationship with your furry friend.

Additional Resources:

Canine Body Language Illustrations:

One of the best online resources for viewing photographs and illustrations of canine body language signals is the website of Dr. Sophia Yin, a renowned veterinarian and animal behavior expert. The website contains a variety of informative articles and visual guides that can help you understand and interpret canine body language. You can find her “Canine Body Language” poster, which provides a comprehensive visual guide to various dog postures and signals, at the following link: https://drsophiayin.com/blog/entry/free-downloads-posters-handouts-and-more/

This poster is available as a free download, and it presents a wide range of canine body language signals with clear images and descriptions. You can also explore other articles and resources on her website to gain a deeper understanding of dog behavior and communication.

Remember, it’s essential to consider the context and other body language cues when interpreting a dog’s emotions and intentions, as these signals can vary between individual dogs and situations. Additionally, keep in mind that some dogs may display unique body language signals due to their breed or individual characteristics.

While Dr. Sophia Yin’s website is an excellent resource, it does not specifically provide a large collection of photographs of canine body language signals.

Another useful resource is the “Lili Chin’s Doggie Drawings” website, which provides a collection of illustrations that depict different canine body language signals. Although these are not photographs, the illustrations are clear and informative. You can find her “Doggie Language” illustrations here: https://www.doggiedrawings.net/doggie-language

Canine Body Language Photographs:

For a more photographic-focused resource, you can visit the website “Dog Decoder.” It offers an app with illustrated examples of various canine body language signals, but their blog also contains photographs and explanations of different dog behaviors. You can find the blog here: https://www.dogdecoder.com/blog/

Please note that these resources primarily offer illustrations, but they are still beneficial in helping you understand and recognize various canine body language signals.

Part I Canine Body Language Podcast

Part II Canine Body Language Podcast

Canine Body Language Videos:

There are several informative YouTube videos available on canine body language, created by dog behavior experts and trainers. Here are some of the best YouTube videos to help you understand and interpret canine body language:

Zak George’s Dog Training Revolution – Understanding Dog Body Language: In this video, Zak George, a popular dog trainer, discusses different aspects of canine body language and how to interpret them. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bstvG_SUzMo
Victoria Stilwell – Decoding Your Dog’s Body Language: Victoria Stilwell, a renowned dog behavior expert and trainer, explains various dog body language signals and what they mean. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bg_gGguwzg
Kikopup – Dog Body Language: Kikopup, a YouTube channel run by professional dog trainer Emily Larlham, has an informative video on dog body language that covers different signals and their meanings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zLx_JtcqKI
McCann Dog Training – Dog Communication and Body Language Explained: This video from McCann Dog Training delves into dog communication and body language, helping you understand the meaning behind various signals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8f9XVzY1vc

These videos provide a visual guide and expert insights into canine body language, making it easier for you to recognize and interpret your dog’s emotions and intentions. Remember to consider the context and other body language cues when interpreting a dog’s signals, as these can vary between individual dogs and situations. If you are really wanting to understand canine body language, take the online canine body language course for pet professionals.