Reading a dog requires concentration and recognizing that a dog’s communications can be just as varied as a human’s communications. with different meanings depending on culture and context. Dogs bark, growl, and whimper but primarily interact with body movements to communicate with other dogs. We may need more time to understand their meaning, but with practice, we can learn. Doing so allows us to connect with our pets rewardingly and increase our bond. Throughout history, dogs have become very capable of interpreting our body language and learning words and commands. Why shouldn’t we reciprocate?
A dog speaks without making a sound through its eyes, ears, tail, and mouth. When dogs are excited, they wag their tails. However, the tail is also how they express their social status and frame of mind. When a dog has its tail held above and away from its body, or if the tail is curled (not naturally curled), that shows dominance. If its hair is also raised, it means aggressiveness.
A comfortable and relaxed canine will typically hold its tail lower. Contrarily, a frightened dog will have its tail close and between its legs. Some dogs usually carry their tail between their legs (like Greyhounds), frightened or not.
An assertive, dominant dog will walk on its toes and have a set gait. Its head is held high, its tail up, and it will appear confident. If it senses confrontation, it will stare with intensity. We need to learn that our return look, whatever the intention, may be interpreted as a confrontation, and the dog’s reaction may be to bite. If you try to touch this type of dog on the head, it may respond with a growl, thinking your movement is an act of dominance. If the dominant dog meets a more docile dog, the dominant one may try to put its paws on the other’s back.
Head with a growl or snap, reading into your hand position to express your dominance.
A dog that is feeling playful will have its tail up and its front legs on the ground, and it will be alert and excited. Its mouth is usually partially open, and sometimes, its head is tilted.
A dog who is afraid will withdraw, its ears flat and its tail tucked. It could also show aggression and bare its teeth. The dog may bite out of fear. It may crouch and roll over on its back without showing signs of aggression. The dog may also urinate. This is not an act of rebellion but rather submission.
Dogs mostly communicate through their body language, but they also make sounds. They bark to express joy or excitement or to alert you of potential danger. They may growl when they feel threatened, whimper for attention, or yelp when scared or hurt. Understanding your dog’s message requires attention to their body language and the situation.
Regarding vocal communication, a bark can mean many things, from happiness when you come home or playing a game with them to warning you of danger. It may even be a question. Dogs growl when they feel unsafe and whimper when they want attention or are hurting. Learning their body language and vocal sounds is essential to understanding what they’re trying to tell you.
