DOG BODY LANGUAGE DECODER GUIDE
Learn how to assess and decode your dog's body language!
Learn how to assess and decode your dog's body language!
These are behaviors your dog uses to self-sooth and relax himself.
Scratching or itching (when there’s no reason to be itchy) is another calming signal. It gives your dog something to do other than stare at another dog -- perfect for breaking up play sessions when your dog needs a break.
A dog will often shake to physically release pent up excitement or nervousness.
If your dog is easily aroused, try rewarding them for shaking -- encourage your dog to use this coping mechanism!
Dogs sniff for many reasons -- it's how they interpret the world.
However, sniffing can also be done to relieve stress. Dogs during play will often take a break from romping to sniff the grass. This is done to defer and de-escalate.
Signs your dog is stressed or uncomfortable
Whale eyes is a classic indicator of fear or nervousness in dogs. Also known as moon eyes due to the crescent shape of the dog’s eye whites (aka the sclera).
A tightly closed mouth often indicates fear or nervousness in dogs. You may also see a frightened dog pull the corner of his lip back, referred to commonly as “long lip”. Don't be mistaken -- this is not a happy grin, but rather a sign of stress!
Flattened ears can be another sign of fear or anxiety in dogs. A dog’s ears can be extremely expressive. Some ears can be more difficult to assess depending on your dog’s breed and specific ear type.
Excessive yawning (in a context where a dog wouldn't be tired) is another classic sign of stress. Yawning also acts as a calming signal, which is a behavior your dog uses to calm themselves.
This means that your dog may also yawn to disperse excitement or energy.
Lip licking is a common but often misinterpreted calming signal. While it can be simply done in anticipation of food, if there isn't food around, it probably means your dog is feeling a bit uncomfortable. A lick lip or tongue flick is commonly displayed by dogs as a calming signal.
Context is key leg lifts - is your dog just excited after smelling the scent of a nearby critter? Or nervous about something?
Some breeds (notable hunting breeds) will display leg lifts much more often as tracking indicators, so don’t worry if your hound dog does this regularly on walks.
A tense, wrinkled face is a sign of stress or agitation. While a smooth, relaxed face indicates a calm and happy dog, a wrinkled face says something else.
Remember that some breeds may naturally have more wrinkles in their faces than others!
When a dog moves away from you, it’s a clear sign asking for space. Even a subtle weight distribution away from you is your dog’s polite way of saying “I’d rather be left alone.”
Respect their wishes for personal space.
A tucked tail is another classic (and easy to recognize) indicator of fear or nervousness. A tail that’s tucked this far beneath a dog means this pup is really frightened!
Signs that your dog is relaxed and happy
A loose, open mouth usually shows that a dog is feeling calm and relaxed.
A lower, soft, and relaxed tail indicates that your dog is feeling good and safe.
Note that this is different than a tucked tail, which goes under the dog's body.
Those squinty eyes are an easy-to-recognize indicator of a happy and relaxed dog.
Many dogs will gaze at their pet parents with these soft eyes as a way of expressing trust and adoration.