Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language

Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language

If only dogs could talk, right? Well, they actually do—just not in our language! Dogs communicate through body language, and once you learn to read the signs, you'll understand your furry friend like never before.

At Best Furends, we believe being a great pet parent means being a great listener—even when your dog isn’t using words.

1. Tail Talk

  • Wagging tail doesn’t always mean happiness. A relaxed wag = friendly. A stiff wag = alert or unsure.

  • Tucked tail = fear, anxiety, or submission.

  • High and stiff = dominance or high excitement.

2. Ear Signals

  • Ears forward = curious or alert.

  • Ears back or flat = scared, nervous, or showing submission.

  • Neutral ears = calm and relaxed.

3. Eyes Say A Lot

  • Soft eyes/blinking = contentment.

  • Whale eye (seeing the whites) = stress or discomfort.

  • Direct stare = challenge or alertness.

4. Posture and Movement

  • Play bow (front down, back up) = "Let’s play!"

  • Cowering or hunched posture = fear or discomfort.

  • Stiff body, raised hackles = tension, aggression, or guarding behavior.

5. Mouth & Facial Cues

  • Open mouth, tongue out = relaxed and happy.

  • Lip licking or yawning (when not tired) = nervousness or appeasement.

  • Baring teeth or growling = warning—give them space.

6. Vocalization Matters Too

While this isn’t body language, it’s often tied to their physical behavior:

  • Whining = stress, excitement, or need for attention.

  • Barking can be joyful, protective, anxious, or just talkative.

  • Growling = a clear boundary—always respect it.

🐶 Best Furends Tip:
Observe patterns in your dog’s body language in different scenarios—walks, playtime, visitors, loud noises, etc. It helps you predict their behavior and avoid stressors.

💡 Want to support your pup’s emotional health?
Check out our calming toys, chewables, and comfy accessories here:
👉 [Shop Comfort for Dogs]

📌 Understanding your dog’s signals helps you respond with empathy and build an unbreakable bond. Because at Best Furends, we know your dog is more than a pet—they're your family.

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