Similar to humans, dogs also have a way to communicate their feelings through their body language. However, if you don’t understand what your dog’s body language is telling you, it’s hard for you to know how they’re feeling and what they’re trying to tell you.  By taking the time to learn what your dog is trying to tell you through their body language, you can better understand your dog’s wants and needs, as well as help to manage their behavior better. Keep reading for some insights on how to understand your dog’s body language. 

Playful

When your pup feels playful, they will likely invite you to engage by lowering the front of their body and keeping their tail high. The tail will also likely be wagging as that is a sign of a happy, excited pup. You will also notice that their ears will be erect and their pupils will be dilated with an excited look in their eyes. Their mouth is usually open and their tongue will likely be out. Your dog will probably look at you with this body language for a few seconds before they run off, which is an invitation for you to chase/play with them. 

Relaxed

When a dog is feeling approachable and relaxed they will likely be standing straight and tall with their ears raised up. Their head will be held high and their tail will be down and relaxed. When a dog’s body language is like this, they feel calm and safe wherever they are. However, if you don’t know the dog and their body language looks like this, don’t force a greeting. An unexpected interaction from a stranger might through them off and make them upset. 

Alert

Dogs have an amazing sense of hearing and smell and are often very curious about what they observe. Their eyes will be wide, mouths closed, and heads held slightly forward. Their tail will likely be straight out with a little bit of a wag. This body language will be held as the dog investigates whatever may have caught their attention. 

Dominant and Aggressive

A dog may become aggressive for many different reasons. A dominant dog will want to show signs that he is the leader and to assert their dominance they will become aggressive. Dominant dogs often need extra training as they need more help calming their aggressive instincts. To know whether your pup is trying to act dominant notice these signs: raised tail, ears forward, fur standing up, snarling mouth with their teeth and gums showing, forehead and nose wrinkled, and their body leaning forward. 

Afraid

When your dog is afraid it might also trigger aggression in them. However, their stance will be different than when they are acting dominant and aggressive. Their body will instead be lower to the ground and their mouth will be closed. Their tail will be tucked under their body instead of up high. If you come across a dog with this body language be cautious because they might be feeling threatened and act out to protect themselves. 

Dog Training in Quincy, MA

If you need some assistance in training your dog or understanding their body language, contact us at Leader of the Pack in Quincy, MA. We are some of the best professional dog trainers in the Greater Boston area and would love to work with your pup! We also offer private at-home training if you think it’s best that your pup gets trained at home. For more information give us a call at 617-296-1711.