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At times, understanding your dog isn't that hard. The signs can be obvious. But, other times they may try to communicate with you for hours, and you feel frustrated because you've tried everything. This article might be a help for you in this case.



  1. Understand What Your Dog Wants Step 1.jpg
    Notice the tail.
    • If a wagging tail is stiff and held high, it might be a sign of your dog being hostile towards something.
    • If a wagging tail is wagging in wide sweeps, hanging down, it's a sign of joy and satisfaction.
    • If the dog is wagging the tail round in circles and/or vibrating, it's a sign of playfulness.
    • A tail hanging low or tucked between its legs is a sign on fear.
  2. Understand What Your Dog Wants Step 2.jpg
    Notice the body.
    • If the dog bows down, and the tail is wagging, then it's most likely playful.
    • If the dog is standing straight and tall, it's a sign of being proud and confident.
    • If your dog is clutching something and staying low to the ground, then there's something the dog doesn't want to share.
    • Stretching is a sign of feeling sleepy or tired and relaxed.
    • Exposing the belly is a sign of wanting attention and affection or submission.
    • If the fur is standing straight up, it's a clear sign of aggression.
    • If the dog is circling another dog while stiff-legged with fur standing up he is exhibiting dominance.
    • If a male dog is trying to mount another male dog, he is showing dominance.
    • If the dog is walking back and forward and shaking, as if wet, the dog is most likely stressed.
  3. Understand What Your Dog Wants Step 3.jpg
    Notice the ears.
    • If your dog's ears are pricked and she tilts her head, it's a sign of curiosity.
    • If your dog suddenly stops up and raise the ears, it has most likely heard something and is curious.
    • If the ears stand back, the dog is most likely aggressive, has heard something from behind or is fearful.
  4. Understand What Your Dog Wants Step 4.jpg
    Notice the mouth.
    • If the dog is panting normally, it's most likely relaxed and happy.
    • If the dog is panting quickly, it's either tired after playing, feeling very warm, or stressed.
    • If the dog is showing teeth, pushing up the lips, it's a sign of aggression.
  5. Understand What Your Dog Wants Step 5.jpg
    Notice the sounds.
    • Growling is a sign of aggression and defensiveness.
    • Yawning is a sign of getting comfortable and tired. A wide yawn along with a small whine is also used as a stress release.

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Categories: Working with Dogs

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