Dog body language is very easy to translate when you take a few minutes to observe the basic actions. Let’s start with how Sam uses his dog behavior body language to tell you when he’s unsafe, insecure, and scared.
If Sam is unsure, his tail will be between his legs and his head will be lowered, as he tries to avoid eye contact. His ears will be slightly back and down.
If you are unsure, you can crouch down by slightly wagging your tail. Sam is not trying to be friendly right now, nor is he threatening. You are trying to decide what action is appropriate to take: fight or flight. You can’t pamper him right now, or he’ll be left halfway. You have to figure it out on your own.
Sam’s fur may also be up when he sniffs you. A toothless coat just means that Sam is fidgety. Let him relax alone. You can’t do that for Sam, he must. If you pet him at that time, he will react, either with a click or by pulling away (avoidance).
If Sam approaches you with his ears back and his tail wagging, he will be happy and eager to greet you. Backed ears means that the dog is submissive and does not pose any threat.
If Sam is terrified, both his ears and his head will go down. Its tail will curve slightly downward with the tip touching its belly.
Okay, is Sam going to bite?
If Sam is going to take a warning bite, he will stare at you and then make a sudden bite. May bite suddenly if touched when nervous. If you see her lips twitch with a canine display, she is warning you of her insecurity or saying she doesn’t trust you. Do not touch!
If Sam is going to make an aggressive attack, his ears will go forward and he will launch with all of his canine teeth exposed. Believe me, that is clear!
Another way dogs bite is when they claim something. That is a dominance dog aggression situation. They are using their teeth to control. For example, you reach for the bone and he bites you for it.
If you get a dog bite, let the dog complete its biting action. So usually you will only have a puncture wound. However, if you withdraw your hand in the middle of the bite, you may have a deep, jagged tear that leaves an ugly scar.
The most common way that dogs share affection with each other is by eye contact. Those quiet moments where Sam is laying at your feet and suddenly gazes into your eyes … that’s one of the deepest ways dogs love each other. He really loves you.
Take special time each day to observe your Sam. Learn their language. Later, when confronting another dog, remember the importance of reading the dog’s body language. Determine from the dog’s body language behavior if it is unsafe, scared, aggressive, or temptingly friendly before petting, and avoid unnecessary dog bites!