Understanding Dog Body Language
Understanding Dog Body Language: What Your Dog is Trying to Tell You
Ever feel like your dog is trying to communicate with you, but all you get is a head tilt and some intense staring? Dogs don’t speak human, but they sure know how to send signals through their body language. Once you learn the signs, you’ll start understanding what your dog is really saying—whether it’s “I’m happy” or “Please, no more of those weird dog sweaters.”
Step 1: The Happy WagA wagging tail doesn’t always mean a happy dog, but most of the time, it’s a good sign. A relaxed, slow wag typically means your dog is content and feeling friendly. However, if that tail is high and stiff with fast wags, your dog might be on high alert—like when they spot the neighbor’s cat.
Step 2: The Head Tilt—Your Dog’s Secret WeaponAh, the classic head tilt. It’s your dog’s way of saying, “I’m listening… but also, are we doing something fun now?” Dogs tilt their heads when they’re trying to focus or figure something out. Let’s be honest, it’s adorable and works every time.
Step 3: The Full-Body Shake (No Water Required)If your dog shakes like they just got out of a pool (but they’re totally dry), it’s a reset button for their emotions. Dogs do this after stressful or exciting moments, like after meeting a new dog or surviving bath time. It’s their way of saying, “Phew, that’s over!”
Step 4: Lip Licking and YawningIf your dog licks their lips or yawns when they’re not tired, they might be feeling stressed or uncomfortable. It’s a way for them to calm themselves down. Next time you see these signals, give them a moment to chill.
Step 1: The Happy WagA wagging tail doesn’t always mean a happy dog, but most of the time, it’s a good sign. A relaxed, slow wag typically means your dog is content and feeling friendly. However, if that tail is high and stiff with fast wags, your dog might be on high alert—like when they spot the neighbor’s cat.
Step 2: The Head Tilt—Your Dog’s Secret WeaponAh, the classic head tilt. It’s your dog’s way of saying, “I’m listening… but also, are we doing something fun now?” Dogs tilt their heads when they’re trying to focus or figure something out. Let’s be honest, it’s adorable and works every time.
Step 3: The Full-Body Shake (No Water Required)If your dog shakes like they just got out of a pool (but they’re totally dry), it’s a reset button for their emotions. Dogs do this after stressful or exciting moments, like after meeting a new dog or surviving bath time. It’s their way of saying, “Phew, that’s over!”
Step 4: Lip Licking and YawningIf your dog licks their lips or yawns when they’re not tired, they might be feeling stressed or uncomfortable. It’s a way for them to calm themselves down. Next time you see these signals, give them a moment to chill.