Canine communication: Reading your dog’s body language

Ever wish your dog could just tell you what they’re feeling? In a way, they already do; through their body language. From wagging tails to subtle ear flicks, our canine companions are constantly ‘speaking’ to us. Learning how to understand these signs not only strengthens your bond but also helps your dog live with more agency and less stress.

We chatted with CANZ Accredited Animal Behaviour Consultant Mat Ward (BSc MVS CCAB) to decode the signs and signals your pup might be showing.

Why body language matters in dogs

Dogs rely on body language as their main form of communication, especially with us humans. While dog barks and growls have their place, much of what they’re trying to say comes through posture, facial expression, tail position and movement. 

“Dogs communicate constantly through their body language,” Mat says. “Understanding these signals can strengthen your bond and help you meet their needs.”

These signals also help you:

• Know when your dog is relaxed or uncomfortable
• Avoid pushing your pet into unwanted situations
• Easily spot pain or illness early
• Navigate the introduction of new pets or babies to the household

Common signs of a happy dog

A contented canine is easy to spot once you know what to look for. According to Mat, happy dogs often have:

• A loose, wiggly body
• Soft eyes, sometimes gently blinking
• A relaxed, slightly open mouth (tongue might be showing)
• Ears in a natural, relaxed position
• A mid-height tail wag that’s loose and wide

You might also notice a dog that readily approaches you, seeks out attention, and shows curiosity about their environment. In short, everything about their body says ‘I’m chilled out and keen to engage’.

Stress signals: how to spot anxiety in your pup

Dogs also show subtle (and some not-so-subtle) signs when feeling stressed. Picking up on these can help you prevent unfavourable interactions, protect your dog’s wellbeing, and avoid putting them in tough situations.

Mat outlines the common anxiety cues for us:

• Lip licking
• Yawning
• Lifting their paw
• Tucking their tail between their legs
• Showing their tummy
• Turning their head away or avoiding eye contact
• ‘Whale eye’ (White of their eyes showing)
• Freezing or becoming very still
• Trembling or shaking
• Excessive panting or drooling when it’s not hot
• Pacing or restlessness
• Flattened ears and a tucked tail

The presence of one of these cues does not automatically equate to stress or anxiety. Many have other meanings in different contexts. For example, a dog licking their lips while you prepare their kai or yawning after an active day at the beach.

Some signs of stress are much more obvious that they could be equated to ‘shouting’ to communicate, such as growling, baring teeth, snapping, or trying to escape. 

What a wagging tail really means

“A wagging tail does not always mean a happy dog,” Mat explains. “It just means the dog is aroused, and arousal can be driven by different emotions.” The tail itself can show different things, so how do you interpret it?

• Tail height: A tail pointing just down from the spine = relaxed. Raised = more aroused or confident. Tucked low = anxious or afraid
• Wag quality: A mid-height, wide wag usually means relaxed and friendly
• The ‘helicopter’ wag: If their tail’s spinning in a circle and their bum’s in on the action, that’s a true show of joy
• Speed: The faster the wag, the more intense the emotion (good or bad)

Don’t rely on the tail alone. Always take the full picture into account. Ears, posture, facial expression, and movement. 

What is a consent test?

Not sure if your dog’s really enjoying those pats or just tolerating them? Try a consent test.

“The ‘consent test’ allows your dog to communicate if they want interaction,” Mat shares. Here’s how to do it:

1. Gently stroke 
2. Stop and pull your hand back slightly
3. Watch what your dog does next

If they lean in, they’re keen for more. If they move away, turn their head, freeze, or display stress signals, it’s a polite ‘no thanks’.

Respecting your dog’s body language this way builds trust and gives them agency in their own life. 

How breed and personality can affect body language

Breed traits and physical build can influence how dogs express themselves. Mat breaks it down:

• Brachycephalic breeds (e.g. Pugs, Bulldogs) may have limited facial expressions due to their short muzzles
  
• Spitz breeds (e.g. Huskies) naturally carry their tails high, which can make it harder to judge their emotional state by tail position
• Sighthounds (e.g. Greyhounds, Whippets) often hold their tails low – even when relaxed – which might look like fear to the untrained eye

Some dogs are naturally more reserved, while others wear their hearts on their sleeves. Learning your dog’s individual patterns, what’s ‘normal’ for them, is key to recognising when something’s off.

When to seek advice from a vet or trainer

If your dog’s body language consistently shows signs of stress, discomfort, or pain, especially when they’re being handled, it might be time to call in backup. Sudden changes in posture or mood could also be a sign of an injury or illness, and should be investigated as soon as possible so that proper care can be provided.

In terms of a trainer or behaviourist, these skilled professionals would be helpful in the case of a dog with persistent fear, aggression, or ‘bad behaviour’. Additionally, high-anxiety dogs may benefit from establishing regular routines, medication as prescribed by a vet, and confidence-building training.

“A dog’s behaviour is often a reflection of how they feel,” Mat says. “When we learn to listen, we can do something to help.” If in doubt, your vet is your best first port of call!

Now that you’re more in tune with your dog’s needs, give them the protection they deserve. SPCA Pet Insurance helps cover unexpected vet visits, so you can focus on what really matters.