How to understand your dog's body language

Understanding a dog's behavior can be just as easy as understanding a person's. A dog's body language can tell you all to know, as a pet owner. Here are some tips to know just what your dog is thinking!

Instructions

    • 1

      If a dog's ears are moved upwards and they stop whatever it is they are doing and freeze, they most likely have heard something in the distance and are focused on it. Your dog is curious.

    • 2

      Is their tail wagging back and forth while they look at you? Look at their face. If they are panting slowly and focused on you, they are happy to see you!

    • 3

      Your dog bows down and wags their tail back and forth. They are in a playful mood! Maybe you should play catch with them!

    • 4

      Their tail is between their legs and they crouch down a bit or cower. They are fearful.

    • 5

      Their hair is standing up. This could mean a couple of things. Sometimes when a dog's hair is standing up they may be afraid. Look at their face. If their teeth are showing or they are barking or growling, they are defensive and angry.

    • 6

      Is your dog shaking back and forth like they would if they were covered in water? This can mean that they are tense and trying to shake free stress.

    • 7

      If your dog is clutching something and staying low to the ground they are showing ownership of something and do not want to share. Make sure you don't get the way of them and their food!

    • 8

      If a dog is showing teeth and has curled up lips, it is quite angry.

    • 9

      Quick panting and searching around can indicate stress.

    • 10

      If the dog is stretching and yawning then they may be tired or getting comfortable.