Many dog owners tell us of the frustration in trying to communicate with their dog as well as trying to understand how their dog is feeling. Knowing its not easy, we’ve put together some key body language messages that will help you understand just how your pup is feeling.
Let’s take a look at the illustration below:
1. Self-confident, dominant in the presence of another dog
2. Threatened or giving warning
3. Trying to impress, excitement as he wags the tail from side-to-side
4. Unconcerned
5. Uncertain threat/cautious
6. Posture during mealtime
7. Acting as a follower to the pack-leader
8. Fierce about a possible threat, defensive.
9, 10 & 11. These are all indicators of presence of a dog of highest rank; acting as a subordinate to the leader of the pack. In such instances, its important that humans don’t intervene in the pack hierarchy.
It’s always wise to understand how your dog is feeling and what your dog is trying to tell you. This will allow you to more effectively train your dog and will also allow you to build a stronger relationship over time.