The way a healthy dog behaves is individual and depends on its age, breed or type and past experience. However, most dogs are playful, sociable animals and they enjoy playing together with toys, people and other dogs.
Head Tilt
A dog tilts his head if he's uncertain about something or he's really interested in. He can also show this behavior when waiting for more information, especially from a trainer. In addition, he can tilt his head to listen to a sound and accurately determine its source.
Pricking Ears
Your dog will hold his ears forward or up if he's curious, aggressive, or wants to play or chase. If he holds his ears flat and close to the head, he's scared or insecure. In addition, if he holds his ears apart but not flat, he's likely to be sad or unsure.
Yawning
A dog yawns if he's under stress or facing threat to help ease pressure and tension. A dog can also show this behavior if he is confused, tired, or threatened. In addition, a dog can behave this way when meeting other canines
Growling
When a dog growls, he’s letting you know that he’s uncomfortable. He’s either scared or trying to show dominance. If a growling dog's mouth has an elongated shape with a good deal of the gums visible the dog is probably frightened and prepared to defend himself. His ears may also be flattened. A growling, fearful dog is often more dangerous than a dog showing dominance, because his survival instinct is to lash out.
Panting
Your four-legged pal will pant if he's overheating or stressed. Dogs do this just to cool down. This is how they regulate their body temperature.
On Its Back
A scared dog will lower its body and drop its tail. If it’s extremely anxious, it will roll onto its back, displaying its belly and throat however they may also be trying to show respect or being playful.
Wagging the Tail
Usually, a dog wags his tail to show friendliness or happiness. If he wags rapidly while holding it down, he's showing submissiveness. If he slowly wags the tail while keeping it in the natural position, you should know that he is alert or wants to play.
Your canine friend is confused, sad, or unwell if he slowly wags his tail while holding it down. If he slowly wags it while holding it high, he's excited or confident.
Tucking Tail Between Legs
Your canine friend is afraid, nervous, worried, or under stress, if he holds his tail between the legs. If he holds the tail tightly against the belly, you should know that he's extremely scared or submissive.
Dogs have fun and unique personalities but also have common body language as other dogs. You can learn and understand your dogs behavior by observing their body language under different circumstances.
Pets R Family, LLC
Pet photographer Lisa Olson