Understanding Your Dog’s Language: How to Read Canine Body Cues

Mars Saves Dogs
May 22
2 min read

Your dog may not speak English, but they’re constantly communicating. At Mars Saves Dogs, LLC, we believe that truly effective training starts with one thing: understanding your dog’s language. Once you can recognize what your dog is feeling and saying with their body, you’ll be able to respond more appropriately, strengthen your bond, and prevent unwanted behaviors before they start.

Why Body Language Matters

Dogs don’t use words—but their eyes, ears, tails, posture, and movement say everything. Misunderstanding these signals often leads to fear, frustration, and even aggression. Learning to interpret these cues helps you support your dog emotionally and keep them safe and happy.

Key Signals to Watch For

1. Tail Position

High and wagging fast: Excitement or arousal (not always friendly).
Low or tucked: Fear, insecurity, or submission.
Neutral and slow wag: Calm and friendly.

2. Ears

Forward and alert: Interest or alertness.
Pinned back: Fear, anxiety, or submission.
Neutral/relaxed: Comfortable and calm.

3. Eyes

Soft gaze or blinking: Relaxed, content.
Wide-eyed, white showing (whale eye): Stress, discomfort.
Avoiding eye contact: Fear, calming signal.

4. Mouth

Relaxed, open mouth, tongue out: Comfortable.
Tight lips, panting when not hot: Nervous or uneasy.
Lip licking or yawning: Stress signal (not always tired or hungry).

5. Overall Posture

Loose, wiggly body: Relaxed and happy.
Stiff, still body: Alert or threatened.
Cowering or leaning away: Fear or anxiety.

Behavior Is Communication

If your dog suddenly starts barking, lunging, or hiding, it's not random. These are coping strategies in response to something they feel uncomfortable about. By learning to observe subtle signs before these behaviors escalate, you can adjust the environment or respond with reassurance, creating a more balanced and secure dog.

Connection Through Observation

As a Certified Canine Behaviorist, I’ve worked with countless dogs showing behaviors that confused or overwhelmed their owners. More often than not, the dog had been communicating discomfort long before it acted out—it just went unnoticed. When you learn to “listen” with your eyes, everything changes.

Ready to Speak Your Dog’s Love Language?

At Mars Saves Dogs, we don’t just train dogs—we teach humans how to listen. Let us help you unlock your dog’s emotional world and build a deeper, more trusting relationship.