Understanding Canine Body Postures

Know the Meaning behind the Stance

Decode your dog’s signals before they escalate.
Learn to recognise 6 essential body postures every dog owner should know — and what each one is really telling you.

🟢Relaxed🟢

Summary:
The body is upright and focused, weight shifted forward, ears pricked, tail raised or straight. The dog is attentive — not aggressive, but ready to act.

You’ll see this when:
Your dog spots something new — a sound outside, a passing person, or another animal. They’re gathering information before deciding what to do.

🟡 Alert🟡

Summary:
The dog is calm, content, and at ease with their environment. Their body is loose, face neutral, and tail gently hanging or wagging at mid-height.

You’ll see this when:
Your dog is enjoying a quiet moment at home, relaxing after a walk, or calmly interacting with familiar people or dogs.

🔴 Threatening / Dominant Offensive – Active🔴

Summary:
The body is stiff, forward-leaning, tail raised stiffly, ears forward or high, mouth may be open with teeth visible. This dog is confident and confrontational.

You’ll see this when:
A dog is guarding territory, posturing toward another dog or person, or escalating a warning into a potential challenge.

🟠 Threatening / Dominant Offensive – Passive🟠

Summary:
Still dominant, but with a more reserved approach. Body may appear tense but more controlled, tail up but less waggy, eyes hard, mouth closed.

You’ll see this when:
A dog is standing their ground without charging — perhaps near a resource, or in a stare-off with another dog.

🔵 Appeasement – Active Submissive Signals🔵

Summary:
The dog is trying to calm a situation — body low, tail wagging low or tucked, ears back, may lick lips or raise paw. Movement is soft or wiggly.

You’ll see this when:
Meeting a new dog or person, being approached after getting into trouble, or during playful greeting when unsure of the other party.

⚪ Appeasement – Passive Submissive Signals⚪

Summary:
The dog is shutting down to avoid conflict — lying belly-up, tail tucked tight, eyes averted, ears pinned. A defensive posture with no intent to escalate.

You’ll see this when:
The dog is overwhelmed, frightened, or trying to end a social interaction (especially with people or dogs who are too intense).

🐶 You’re One Step Closer to Truly Understanding Your Dog

Reading body language isn’t just about preventing problems — it’s about building trust, respect, and a deeper connection.

When you take the time to notice the small signals, your dog doesn’t need to shout. You become the safe, predictable human they can trust in any situation.

Thank you for learning their language.