Upright, relaxed wagging signifies happiness; tense motions or between legs signals fear.
Tail Height + Motion
Erect ears showing interest; flattened ears indicating anxiety or submission.
Ear Position
High pitched warning barks versus low grumbling barks determine threatening versus playful context.
Bark Tones
Soft eye contact shows affection and trust; hard stare can communicate dominance or unease.
Eye Contact
Lip licking, yawning when not tired demonstrates your dog’s efforts to avoid confrontation.
Appeasing Signals
Sudden stiffening or stillness associated with perceived threat or uncertainty.
Body Freezing
Rapid dog sneezes are an innate social calming signal inviting positive interaction.
Sneezes