Understanding Dog Behavior: Recognizing Warning Signs
One of the most frequent comments I encounter after a dog bites or snaps is, “It came out of nowhere!” or “He didn’t show any signs!”
However, in nearly every instance, the dog did provide warnings that went unnoticed.
Dogs seldom bite without first attempting to communicate their discomfort, anxiety, or overwhelm through more subtle signals. Learning to identify these early indications can help prevent conflicts and ensure everyone's safety.
For example, last summer, a family visited with their newly rescued dog and their eight-year-old son for an evaluation. The dog, a shy lab mix, wagged its tail and approached the gate, but its body language conveyed a different message—its posture was low, and its ears were back. When the boy reached out to pet the dog, it became rigid, and as the boy continued, the dog snapped at him, though it did not make contact. The mother realized she had focused only on the wagging tail and overlooked other critical signs from the dog. During the evaluation, we discussed canine body language and practiced calmer interactions for the child.
Red Flags to Watch For
Here are some common signals that indicate when dogs feel uncomfortable:
Lip licking
Stiff or frozen body posture
Yawning (as a sign of stress, not fatigue)
Looking away or avoiding eye contact
Attempting to move or walk away
Growling
Showing teeth
Tail wagging (a wag does not always indicate a happy dog. Pay attention to the rest of their body language. A loose, wiggly body usually signifies comfort; a tight, high, or rapid wag may indicate tension.)
Even the friendliest dog can feel scared or overwhelmed at times.
Allow dogs to approach you rather than rushing towards them. Quick movements or reaching over a dog's head can trigger a fear-based response.
Never disturb a dog while it’s sleeping or eating. Consider how you would feel if startled during a nap or interrupted at dinner; dogs share the same sentiments.
Recognizing and respecting these signs fosters trust and helps your dog feel secure. By paying attention to their body language, we can prevent bites, strengthen our bond, and set them up for success in any environment.
If you're uncertain about what your dog's signals mean or need assistance in building their confidence and communication skills, please reach out. We would be delighted to help you learn to interpret your dog’s signals and create a safer, more balanced relationship.