Dogs can’t talk, but they are constantly communicating with us. Understanding their body language is the key to knowing when they are happy, scared, or anxious. Learning to read these signals can prevent misunderstandings and help you respond to their needs more effectively.

Here are some common cues and what they mean:

The Tail:
A wagging tail doesn’t always mean happiness.

• Relaxed, Mid-Height Wag: This is the classic “I’m happy and content” wag.

• High, Stiff, Fast Wag: This often indicates excitement or arousal. It could be positive, but in some contexts, it can signal agitation.

• Low, Tucked Tail: This is a clear sign of fear, submission, or anxiety.

• “Helicopter” Wag (Full Circle): This is a genuinely friendly and excited greeting, usually reserved for their favorite people.

The Ears:
A dog’s ears are incredibly expressive.

• Relaxed and Neutral: A calm, comfortable dog will hold their ears in their natural position.

• Forward and Alert: The dog is interested and focused on something.

• Pinned Back: This can mean two very different things depending on the context. Combined with a loose, wiggly body, it’s a sign of friendliness. But if the body is tense or the dog is growling, it’s a sign of fear or aggression.

The Eyes:
The eyes can reveal a lot about a dog’s emotional state.

• Soft Eyes: When a dog is relaxed, their eyes will be a normal shape with soft focus.

• “Whale Eye”: When a dog shows the whites of their eyes, it’s a sign of stress or anxiety. They are worried about something and may be about to react.

• Hard Stare: A direct, unblinking stare is often a challenge or a threat. It’s best to avert your gaze and de-escalate the situation.

The Mouth:

• Loose, Open-Mouth “Smile”: A relaxed, panting dog often looks like it’s smiling. This is a sign of a happy, calm dog.

• Lip Licking: When not related to food, repetitive lip licking is a common sign of stress.

• Yawning: While dogs yawn when tired, they also yawn frequently when they are feeling anxious or stressed.

By observing these signals in combination, you can get a much clearer picture of what your dog is feeling. Watching their body language is like learning a new language—one that will bring you and your best friend closer than ever.