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Body Language

Body Language


Dogs primarily communicate with body language. When we understand and respect their signals, it builds trust and keeps everyone safe!


The Big Picture

To understand your dog’s body language, look at the entire picture! Consider their ears, eyes, tail, mouth, and overall posture. One single signal might not give the full story! You will also want to consider the context. For example, a dog could be panting heavily because they are hot or because they are stressed. 


Dogs may sometimes show conflicting body language. Some parts of the body may look happy while others look concerned or defensive. This may be because they are feeling conflicted themselves (ex: they want to say hi but are nervous about it), or it could just be an individual difference (ex: some dogs raise their hackles, the hair on along their spine, when they are defensive, but some may do this during play) 


All dogs communicate with the same body language signals, but there can be small differences depending on breed. For example, a pug’s tail will be tightly curled along its back, while a greyhound's tail will typically hang lower. When you look at overall body language however, you will be able to tell what a dog is feeling regardless of breeds.


Relaxed and Happy

A relaxed dog is content and comfortable in their environment.

  • Ears: Neutral, slightly forward or relaxed.

  • Eyes: Soft, relaxed gaze, normal blinking

  • Mouth: Slightly open, tongue relaxed, or panting lightly

  • Tail: Wagging gently, neutral position

  • Body: Loose and relaxed posture


Alert and Focused

An alert dog is paying attention to something in their environment. Your dog is curious or investigating something.

  • Ears: Perked up, facing forward

  • Eyes: Wide open, focused

  • Mouth: Closed or slightly open

  • Tail: Held higher than normal, 

  • Body: Stiff, leaning slightly forward


Playful and Excited

Playful dogs invite interaction and are in a friendly, non-threatening state. 

  • Ears: Perked up or relaxed

  • Eyes: Bright, open

  • Mouth: Open with relaxed tongue

  • Tail: Wagging quickly in big sweeping motions

  • Body: Play bow (front legs down, rear up), bouncy movements


Anxious or Nervous

A nervous dog may be uncomfortable or unsure of their surroundings.

  • Ears: Pinned back or to the side

  • Eyes: Wide, showing whites (whale eye)

  • Mouth: Closed or licking lips. May be panting heavily

  • Tail: Tucked between legs or low

  • Body: Stiff, crouched, or leaning away


Aggressive or Defensive

A dog showing signs of aggression is feeling threatened and may act to protect themselves. Your dog is warning others to back off.

  • Ears: Pinned back or pushed forward

  • Eyes: Intense stare, pupils dilated

  • Mouth: Lips curled, showing teeth, growling or barking

  • Tail: High and stiff, may be wagging slowly

  • Body: Stiff, hackles raised (fur along back standing up)


Calming Signals

Calming signals are subtle behaviors dogs use to diffuse tension and avoid conflict. Your dog is trying to de-escalate a situation or express unease.

  • Yawning: A sign of stress or discomfort

  • Lip Licking: Trying to calm themselves or others

  • Turning Head Away: Avoiding direct confrontation

  • Slow Blinking: Showing they are relaxed or not a threat


Resources

Dog Body Language at Silent Conversations

Doggie Language Images by Lili Chin


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