19/08/2026
If your dog does this when guests arrive, DO NOT force them to say hello. 🛑
Most dog bites don’t happen out of nowhere; they happen because humans miss the micro-signals.
When a dog is feeling overwhelmed or conflicted, they’ll show subtle stress cues long before they ever growl, bark, or snap. Forcing greeting when they’re showing these signs forces them to escalate to protect their space.
Here are 4 subtle warning signs to watch for next time someone visits:
Slow Yawning: Not tired—this is a displacement behavior used to self-sooth under pressure.
Rapid Lip Licking: Quick tongue flicks over the nose indicating mounting anxiety.
Tense Muzzle: Tightened muscles around the mouth and eyes right before a freeze.
Weight Shifted Back: Stretching forward to sniff while keeping their weight loaded on the hind legs so they can retreat fast.
If you see any of these, advocate for your dog immediately. Politely ask your guests to ignore the dog, give them space, and let your pup process at their own pace.
📌 SAVE this post to refer back to during your next home visit.
↗️ SHARE this with friends and family so they know how to properly respect a dog’s boundaries!
[dog behaviour, canine body language, dog training tips, dog reactivity, dog bite safety, dog communication, dog behaviourist, positive dog training]
