Dog Body Language

Dogs might not speak our language, but they’re always communicating. Through subtle movements, facial expressions, and vocalisations, your dog is constantly sharing how they feel. Learning to understand these signals can transform your relationship, helping you connect more deeply and train more effectively.

Below is a guide to decoding your dog’s body language — think of it as your starter kit for ‘Doglish’!

🐕 1. The Tale of the Tail
A wagging tail doesn’t always mean a happy dog. The position, movement, and speed of the wag matter just as much as the fact it’s wagging.

High and steady wag: Often signals excitement or being alert. Think “I’m ready for action!”

Low and slow wag: This could mean uncertainty or nervousness.

Tucked tail under the body: Usually a sign of fear, anxiety, or feeling scared.

👂 2. Ears that Speak Volumes
Whether they’re big, floppy, pointy or anything in between, a dog’s ears offer strong emotional clues.

Erect and forward-facing ears: Alert and focused, possibly curious or stimulated by something.

Flattened or pinned back ears: Often means fear or anxiety.

Relaxed ears (often to the side): A sign your dog is calm and comfortable.

👁️ 3. The Eyes Have It
Your dog’s eyes are deeply expressive. What they do with them — and how they hold the rest of their face — can speak volumes.

Wide, staring eyes (whale eye): This can be a sign of stress or discomfort — often seen just before a dog reacts.

Soft, blinking eyes: Indicates trust, calmness, and often affection.

Avoiding eye contact: Could be fear or worry — not guilt!

🐾 4. Posture Tells a Story
Body language is the full-body version of a whisper or shout. Is your dog inviting play, showing caution, or bracing for something?

Stiff, forward-leaning body: Indicates confidence, possibly a challenge or excitement.

Crouched or lowered body: Could be fear or worry.

Relaxed, neutral posture: Your dog is happy, content and not feeling threatened.

🎙️ 5. The Sounds of Communication
Not all communication is silent. Dogs also vocalise to express needs, emotions or reactions.

Barking: Can mean excitement, alertness, frustration, or fear. The tone and context matter.

Growling: Often misunderstood — it's usually a warning or expression of discomfort. It deserves respect, not punishment.

Whining or whimpering: May signal stress,pain, a desire for attention, or a need for something.

🧠 6. Know Your Dog’s Triggers and Tendencies
Every dog is unique. Breed traits, life experience, and individual temperament all influence how they communicate. Pay attention to how your dog reacts in different environments, with different people, and around other dogs.

Over time, you’ll learn their specific “dialect” — what signals they use most, and how to tell when something is off.

💬 Final Thoughts: Listen With Your Eyes
Understanding your dog’s body language is one of the most important steps you can take towards a stronger, more trusting relationship. It can help you:

Train more effectively

Spot stress before it escalates

Avoid misunderstandings

Improve confidence in you as their guardian

By observing and listening with your eyes, you’ll be better equipped to meet your dog’s needs, and create a calm, communicative connection built on trust.

You will learn a lot from just watching your dog, even better you can film them and watch it over and over again !!

Understanding Canine Communication: What Your Dog’s Body Language is Really Telling You