Instructions
Observe the dog's ears to get a considerable amount of insight into what the dog is feeling. If a dog's ears are in their normal, natural position, then it's probably feeling relaxed and happy. However, if the dog's ears are cocked back and against its head, then the dog is nervous or angry and you should give it space until its ears relax. When a dog's ears are upright and forward, the dog is on alert and ready to act. It's focused and paying attention to something that it hears and it's best to leave the dog alone.
Look at a dog's tail for signs of the dog's mood. If it's wagging its tail, then it's probably happy. If its tail is tucked under its legs, then the dog is probably afraid of something. A tail that is high and straight may indicate that the dog is upset.
Observe the hair on the back of the dog's neck. If it's standing on end, then the dog may be scared or mad. Wait for the hair to lie down and the dog to relax before approaching it.
Study the entire animal before coming to a conclusion about its mood. While it's important to notice specific body parts such as the ears and tail, it's hard to tell exactly how a dog feels by examining only one body part. For example, a dog wagging its tail is probably happy, but if it's wagging its tail while its ears are back and its hair is standing on end, it's probably unhappy and you should stay away.
Monitor the dog's behavior. If a dog runs up to you and immediately rolls over on its back and starts wagging its tail, then it's happy, submissive and wanting attention. If a dog stands away from you with its ears cocked back and growling lowly, you should stay away and let it decide when it wants to come to you.
How to Read your Dog's Body Language
It's important to know how to read a dog's body language and even more important to teach children how to read a dog's body language. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, "800,000 Americans receive medical attention for dog bites every year." Children receive about half of these injuries and kids are more likely than adults to suffer severe injuries. However, it's possible to avoid many dog bites by reading a dog's body language and respecting the dog when it signals it needs to be left alone. Obviously, dogs cannot explain their feelings, but careful observation can give us insight into their moods.