10 Ways to Interpret Dog Body Language

When approaching an animal for handling, it's essential to observe their behavior and body language to ensure both your safety and the animal's comfort. Here are some key behaviours and body language signs to look for:

Relaxed Body: 

An animal that is comfortable and approachable will generally have a relaxed body posture. This includes a loose, non-tense stance.
 
 
Ears:

Pay attention to the position of their ears. In many animals, ears that are forward or neutral suggest curiosity or attentiveness, while ears pinned back can indicate fear, aggression, or discomfort.
 
 
Eyes:

The eyes can reveal a lot about an animal's emotional state. Wide, alert eyes may suggest curiosity or excitement, while dilated (enlarged) pupils can indicate stress, fear, or agitation.
 
 
Tail:

Tail position varies among species, but a relaxed tail typically hangs loosely or is held in a neutral position. A raised tail can indicate alertness or excitement, while a tucked tail may signal fear or submission.
 
 
Vocalisation:

Listen for vocalizations. Some animals may make sounds when they're agitated or uncomfortable, while others may remain silent.
 
 
Facial Expressions:

Observe their facial expressions for signs of tension, such as wrinkled skin, snarling, or baring of teeth.
 
 
Body Movements:

Sudden, jerky movements or attempts to escape can indicate fear or discomfort. Smooth, controlled movements often suggest calmness.
 
 
Yawning or Lip Licking:

These can be signs of stress in some animals.
 
 
Hiding or Avoidance:

If the animal is actively avoiding your approach, it may be telling you that it prefers not to interact at that moment.
 
 
Aggression:

Be cautious of signs of aggression, such as growling, hissing, swatting, or lunging. These indicate that the animal feels threatened and may lash out defensively.
 

It's crucial to approach animals slowly and calmly, allowing them to become familiar with your presence. Never force an interaction, and be prepared to back away if the animal shows signs of discomfort or fear. Additionally, understanding the specific body language of the species you are handling is essential, as it can vary among dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and other animals. Always prioritise safety and the animal's well-being when handling or approaching any animal.

Another blog that has some great information on dog body language is from the RSPCA called 'Interpreting body language in dogs' Dr Rosemary Elliot, who studied veterinary science at the University of Sydney after having established her career as a clinical psychologist contributes quality knowledge and content towards the blog. Dr Rosemary has a ambition to focus directly on animal welfare and ethics, with a particular interest in animal sentience and the human-animal bond.

Thanks guys! xx