Read Between the Wags: How to Read Your Dog’s Body Language

What makes our dog’s so special is that every single one, no matter if they share the same mum, breed or household, has its own unique quirks and personality. In the same way, they also have their own way of expressing themselves. Some pups are true dramatic divas and aren’t ashamed of a loud sigh while others wear their hearts on their wagging tails. But while every dog is one-of-a-kind, there are certain universal signs that can tell us a lot about how they are feeling.

Understanding your dog’s body language is crucial as a dog owner, because even the behaviours you think are quirky or even funny, can often signal something else. For example, one dog might flash their teeth in a happy, goofy grin, while another might bare theirs to let you know they’re not happy. The difference often comes down to context, confidence and personality.

Once you start learning to read your dog’s body language, you’ll be able to understand them on a whole new level, from when they’re feeling anxious, to when they’re thrilled to see you. It’s all about spotting those subtle cues so you can respond in the best way possible and strengthen the bond you already share.

Learning to understand your dog’s body language is one of the most valuable things you can do as a pet parent. It’s how your dog communicates with you and lets you know what they need before any unnecessary barking, whining or growling.

Just like us humans, who express so much about how we’re feeling on our faces, our dogs portray their own emotions through every ear flick, tail wag and even sideways glance. In fact, some behaviours we find funny or cute like lip licking or yawning can actually be signs that our dogs are feeling unsure or overwhelmed.

Understanding your dog’s body language also helps build trust. When your dog realises you’re listening and respecting their signals, they’ll feel more secure and confident around you. It strengthens your bond and makes training, playtime and day-to-day life so much easier for the both of you. As they say, communication goes both ways!

And it’s not just useful for understanding your own pup. Learning how to read a dog’s body language can help you understand other dogs too. When you’re out on a walk or at the park, being able to recognise when another dog looks tense, fearful or uncomfortable can help you avoid unwanted confrontations and keep your dog protected from any unhappy pups.

We all want our dogs to be happy and comfortable, but how do we actually know when they are? Understanding your dog’s body language is the best way to spot when they’re content and ultimately living their best life, exactly as we hope for!

Relaxed Ears and Eyes

A happy dog looks… honestly, a little soft – in their best way. Their eyes are calm and relaxed, with slow blinks or a gentle gaze and their ears will typically rest naturally against their head rather than pinned back. They just look easy and comfortable.

Loose, Wiggly Body

If your dog’s entire back end is wagging along with their tail, that’s pure joy and as any dog owner will know, it’s one of the best sights in the world. A happy dog’s body will look loose and bouncy, never stiff or tense. When their whole body joins in on the tail wag, it’s a sure sign they’re happy to see you.

Play Bows and Happy Dances

That adorable stretch where your dog’s front half drops and their bum stays up is known as a play bow and your pup’s way of letting you know they’re happy and ready for some fun! Some dogs even do little hops or spins when they’re excited, which is another telltale sign of happiness.

Soft Smile

A relaxed, open mouth, sometimes with the tongue lolling out, can look like a smile, and often it is. As long as there’s no tension or growling involved and their panting isn’t too excessive, this happy grin usually means your dog feels totally at ease.

It’s hard seeing our dogs looking down or withdrawn. In fact, it’s hard to even imagine our furry besties ever getting sad. But they do, and it’s something we should all be aware of so when their body language tells us something is up, we can do everything to fix it.

Low Energy or Withdrawal

If your usually playful pup suddenly isn’t interested in walks, toys, food or their favourite people, it might be a sign they’re feeling low. They may also sleep more or spend more time alone.

Loss of Appetite

A dog that’s sad or out of sorts might turn their nose up at food or treats they normally love. It’s always worth monitoring, as changes in appetite can also signal illness. A trip to the vets is never a bad idea if your pup goes off food.

Restlessness or Trouble Settling

Some dogs pace, whine and can’t seem to get comfortable when they’re upset. You might notice more sighing, shifting positions or general unease.

Changes in Behaviour

Just like humans, sadness can show up differently in every dog. Some become clingier, while others might act out through destructive behaviour or toilet accidents. Paying attention to these shifts and tuning into your dog’s body language will really help you figure out what they’re trying to tell you. Your vet can also give you advice if you’re unsure why they’re feeling this way.

Dogs have days when they feel anxious or uneasy too. Fireworks, visitors, vet trips or even a slight change in routine can throw them off. Being able to recognise stress in your dog’s body language can help you step in early to comfort them before things escalate.

Tense Body and Tail

A stressed dog often goes still and you’ll likely notice their muscles tighten. Their tail is also a go-to sign when your dog’s not comfortable, either going low and tucked beneath their legs or high up and stuff, looking sharp and unmoving.

Pinned Ears and Wide Eyes

Ears flattened back against the head and wide, darting eyes are key indicators that your dog is feeling uneasy. You might also notice faster blinking or dilated pupils.

Panting, Shaking or Lip Licking

When your dog starts panting even though it’s not hot, or gives repeated lip licks and yawns, they could be trying to calm themselves down. Some dogs even do a full-body shake after something stressful as a way to “reset.”

Avoidance or Clinginess

Stress can make dogs react in two ways: some retreat and hide while others stick to you like glue. Neither is wrong but both are their way of seeking safety. The important thing is to give them space or comfort depending on what they need most.

Once you start tuning into your dog’s body language, you’ll notice just how much they’re communicating with you. And if you ever feel like your dog isn’t feeling their best, there are a few key habits (and maybe a few WOOOF favourites), that you can add to your daily routine to make every day feel like their best day ever.

Feed Them Well

A happy dog starts with a healthy belly. A balanced diet full of high-quality ingredients keeps their body strong and their mind sharp. It’s also worth remembering that food isn’t just fuel either, but a great excuse for enrichment too! Mixing up mealtimes with natural food toppers and tasty supplements as well as serving it in dog slow feeder bowls to give them a mini brain workout can make dinner time even more exciting and rewarding.

Make Time for Enrichment

Dogs love having something to do, and if you don’t give them a job, they’ll usually find one themselves… like eating the post or digging up the garden, That’s why dog enrichment toys are a must for any pup owner. Enrichment tools like lick mats, treat dispenser toys for dogs and snuffle mats are all brilliant for keeping their brain busy and helping them unwind. Licking and chewing naturally release calming endorphins, so enrichment is both fun and one of the easiest ways to keep your dog relaxed.

Exercise Every Day

Every dog needs exercise, no matter their age, size or breed. Even our short-legged explorers and golden oldies deserve their daily dose of fresh air and adventure. It doesn’t have to be a huge hike every time; even a slow potter down the street for older dogs is essential to their wellbeing and physical health.

And of course, the breed of your dog makes a big difference to the exercise they need. A young Border Collie, for example, will thrive on long walks and plenty of mental stimulation, while a Pug might be happier with shorter strolls and more frequent rest stops. Knowing your dog’s breed and their unique needs is key to keeping them healthy and happy.

Keep a Calm and Consistent Routine

A little like human babies, our dogs thrive on routine because it helps them feel safe and secure. Regular mealtimes, walks and bedtime routines give them a sense of stability and fewer surprises mean less stress. Of course, life happens, but keeping a rough structure will go a long way to maintaining a calm and content pup.

Help Them Unwind

Just like us, dogs need downtime to decompress. Make sure your dog has a cosy and comfy spot in the house that’s just for them. A place they can fully relax, knowing they’re not going to be bothered by little hands or loud noises. To make their spot even more special, you can fill it with their favourite dog toys, blankets and even spray some calming scents that are safe for dogs.

Socialise Them

Dogs need friends too! So if your pup is comfortable with other pups and humans, don’t be afraid to let them say hello while you’re out and about. Just be sure to pay attention to your dog’s body language so you can be sure they’re comfortable. If your pup seems uncertain, give them space. It’s always better to let them approach in their own time rather than to push them into interactions they’re not ready for.

Show Them All the Love

And of course, the simplest key to a happy and relaxed dog is you. You are your dog’s best friend too, and most of the time, the thing they love more than anything else in the world is being by your side. So, make sure to spend quality time together, offer them praise, give them all the cuddles and kisses and just love them. A dog that is loved and taken care of is a happy dog.

Understanding your dog’s body language can give you a real insight into how they’re feeling, from excitement and curiosity to stress or discomfort. Even the smallest behaviours that you might not have noticed before, like a slow blink or a straight tail, can tell you something important about how they’re feeling and what they might need.

Being able to read these signals means you can respond in ways that support their wellbeing. Having enrichment toys on hand for when they seem down or anxious is a great way to distract them, give them purpose and help them feel calm. Similarly, tasty dog treats and plenty of praise and love can reinforce positive behaviour and turn everyday moments into opportunities for engagement and comfort.

Now go out there, stare into those adorable puppy eyes and see if you can decode what your dog is thinking!

All information sourced from DogsTrust, PetMD and The Kennel Club

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