READER OF THE PACK

             Know how to read Body Language

          WATCH CAREFULLY-

 Your dog is trying to tell you something

Sometimes it seems that dogs are better at reading our body language than we are at reading theirs. They may not be able to verbally talk to us but their bodies are very expressive. Pay close attention and you will see the clues as to what your dog is trying to tell you.

Lucy Loo  is licking her lips and smiling and yawning:

   SHe might be telling you she is hungry and tired but she could also be trying to tell you that she is feeling distressed.  If you are petting your dog and she yawns more than once, chances are she’d like some space. Give it to her.  

Draco looks away when you look at him:

 Not making eye contact is a sign of submission or deference. Learn the differences

Ninnie’s ears are tucked back:

If it is done while running , its for speed. If her ears are in this position around people or another dog it means she is afraid, anxious and timid. Respect her fear and remove her from the situation immediately yet calmly not to add more stress. do not force her into a situation in which she will failure.

Shaftie’s tail is straight up, wagging stiffly:

A wagging tale doesn’t always means he is a happy pup. If his tail is erect and vibrating slightly , stay alert as something is amist. He is feeling tense and overstimulated. He might bark or lunge at another dog or even at a nearby person. So keep a firm grip on your leash and be prepared to divert his attention.

Brutus’ lips are back, his mouth is relaxed and open and his teeth are exposed:  no need to go all Freudian here – sometimes a smile is just a smile and dogs do smile and dogs have a great sense of humor . On the other hand a dog that is tense, showing his teeth with or with a growl is telling you that you are in his space and you need to back off.