Your
Dog's Body Language
 Neutral or Relaxed |
The neutral or relaxed posture is seen when dogs are in a comfortable situation such as at home. |
| The
alert posture indicates interest. It is a
prelude to another behavior - either investigation, interaction, or a
return to relaxation. |
 Alert |
 Offensive Threat |
The
offensive threat posture indicates a dog
that is dangerous and ready to attack. The tail may be wagging
stiffly. The nose is wrinkled, exposing the teeth, and the dog is
usually vocalizing - a low throaty growl or bark. |
| A dog that is challenging his owner for the position of pack leader may exhibit some or all of the offensive threat signals, especially holding the ears up and forward, staring directly at the owner, and standing tall with the tail held high. Other dominant behaviors include nipping of skin or clothes, mounting or riding up on people, guarding or stealing food or other objects, or elimination (marking) within the house except during the housetraining of puppies. |
| The
defensive threat posture also indicates a
dog that is dangerous, but will attack only as a last resort. He is
frightened and may bite in self-protection if cornered. |
 Defensive Threat |
 Active Submission |
Active submission
is exhibited by a subordinate pack member to appease a dominant
individual. The submissive dog will avoid eye contact and may grovel
and try to lick the mouth of the superior dog. |
| Passive submission
is a more extreme form of submission, designed to turn off aggression
from a more dominant dog. The dog will be very still and may urinate.
Never continue to punish a dog that is showing passive submission. |
 Passive Submission |
 Stress |
When the dog is under
stress, he lowers his posture and pants rapidly. All learning
stops. If you see these signs, allow the dog to rest. |
| Play solicitation
behavior includes the play bow with the front end lowered, a happy
facial expression and wagging tail. It is possible to imitate this
posture and encourage the dog to play. |
 Play Solicitation |