Reading Between the Barks: What Your Dog’s Body Is Actually Telling You
To understand your dog completely, you have to learn how to read its non-verbal gestures.
Though many people wish dogs would be able to talk in languages just like we do, animals won’t do so, but instead will use their own languages that owners can learn to understand.
According to many experts, dogs have a variety of gestures they use to communicate with people, and it’s not only barking that they’re trying to attract attention with. Here are some of the most frequent signals that indicate your dog’s current mood.
Your Dog’s Eyes Can Tell More Than You Think
Even if you already know that your dog’s stare can indicate that they need something, it’s also important to differ several kinds of these looks. For instance, if your pet’s looking at you calmly or with its eyes half-closed, it means that the dog is relaxed and feels comfortable by your side.
Alternatively, if the dog’s look seems stiff and direct, it often indicates that the animal feels threatened or anticipates some kind of conflict.
Lastly, when you see that your dog doesn’t even look directly in your eyes and avoids this kind of contact, it might be that the pet feels uncomfortable and stressed for some reason.
Your Dog’s Ears Show Its Reaction to What Happens Around
As some animal experts claim, the dog’s ears often come as the most efficient way for the owner to see how their pet reacts to the environment. If your dog’s ears are in their normal state and seem relaxed, it’s likely the pet feels in the same way.
However, if the ears are standing straight up and pointing forward, it signals the dog paying extra attention to something specific. If you see that your dog’s ears are pinned back or against the head, it’s likely that the animal feels worried or even aggressive about something.
Your Dog’s Mouth and Face Can Signal Something Bad Happening
The dogs often use their face mimics to communicate with humans and tell them that something isn’t right, as animal experts also highlight.
One of the most frequent signs of the dog’s worried state is yawning without actually being tired; this way, the dog likely tries to cope with stress or some tension.
Licking its own nose can indicate the dog’s attempt to calm itself down or even soften physical pain.
Finally, right and pulled-back lips that don’t make any kind of sound can also be a sign of the pet’s tension or rather aggression.
