Reading Canine Body Postures
While dogs cannot speak, they do display their state of mind via their body language. By taking
careful note of ear position, pupil dilation, facial tension (particularly around the muzzle
and forehead), tail carriage and body weight distribution, an observer can detect whether a
dog is relaxed or fearful, or acting in a submissive or dominant manner toward the observer.
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Arousal
The dog has been stimulated by something in
his enviroment. When the dog is excited by
something pleasurable, the hackles will be
down and the tail will be carried a little lower
and will loosely wag. The muzzle will be
relaxed and the tongue may be seen. This posture
may be displayed to subordinates in order
to express higher ranking pack position.
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Aggressive Attack
This threatening posture is used to chase
another away or, if need be, to attack in order
to protect possessions, pack or self.
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Active Submission
This pacifying posture is used when a dog
acknowledges another dog or human’s higher
social ranking, or to inhibit another’s aggression.
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Passive Submission
Bellying up indicates surrender, a pacifying
gesture offered to a more dominant or
aggressive individual.
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Defensive Aggression
When fearful, a dog will give warning signals
to indicate he does not wish to be approached.
If, unheeded, he will bite to protect himself.
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