05/31/2026
Dogs are talking to us all the time — the question is, are we listening?
Understanding canine body language is one of the best ways to prevent bites, reduce stress and build stronger relationships with our dogs. A wagging tail doesn't always mean a dog is happy, and subtle signs like lip licking, yawning, turning away or showing the whites of their eyes can indicate discomfort or anxiety.
This helpful "Doggie Language" chart highlights many of the common signals dogs use to communicate how they're feeling. By learning to recognize these cues, adults and children can interact more safely and respectfully with their canine companions.
🐶 Some signs mean:
✔️ "I'm relaxed."
✔️ "Let's play!"
✔️ "I'm excited!"
⚠️ "I need space."
⚠️ "I'm feeling stressed."
⚠️ "Please stop what you're doing."
Every dog deserves to be heard, even when they aren't using words.
Take a few minutes to study this chart and share it with family and friends. Understanding dog body language can help keep both people and pets safe.