Inviting a puppy into your life is a momentous event! If you’re unfamiliar with canine body language, it can also be confusing. Below is a head-to-tail translation of what your puppy may convey. Although your dog may be female, to facilitate this overview, we’ll refer to your pup as male. We’ve omitted the obvious, sharing with you the subtle aspects of puppy parlance.
Body Language
One gesture can have several interpretations. The context of your puppy’s action will clarify his message. You’ll gather clues by observing body parts, sounds, and stance.
Eyes
- “Oh, this feels good!” – Lowered eyelids reflect pleasure. When rubbing your puppy’s ears, he may show delight by squinting.
- “I acknowledge that you’re in charge.” – Averted eyes demonstrate submission.
Mouth
- “I’m happy.” – He’s smiling when his lips are retracted horizontally, revealing more teeth. He may also pant with his mouth half-open and tongue hanging loosely.
- “I feel anxious or threatened.” – When yawning is accompanied by averted eyes, he’s trying to avoid conflict. To relieve his fear, try yawning back. This mirrored action may calm him.
- “I’m stressed and uncomfortable.” – Your puppy licks his lips. This is an appeasement gesture or pacifying behavior. For example, if you scold your pup, he may lick his lips and avert his gaze in submission. This is his attempt to prevent further scolding. If yelling continues, he may get defensive. If you see lip-licking, know that you’ve made your point. Give your pup a chance to recover his equilibrium.
Paws
- “I’m sorry.” – Puppies apologize by tucking the tail, crouching low, and offering a paw.
- “Please pet me.” – Holding up a paw before rolling over and exposing the tummy is a request to be stroked.
Tail
- “I’m afraid.” – When the tail wags below belly level, your puppy is anxious.
- “I’m at ease.” – When the tail is resting downward, your dog is relaxed.
- “I’m ready for action.” – If the tail is still or gently swinging, he’s alert.
- “Back off!” – He’s defending himself when the tail is held still, above the rump. He may also wag it briskly in a repetitive fashion.
Coat
- “I’m spooked!” – When the fur stands upright along the ridge of his back, he’s alarmed. This unconscious response is termed “hackles.”
Sounds
- “I’m protecting myself or someone else.” – Making a “Grrrr” sound can warn of aggression.
- “I’m having a blast!” – If you’re playing together, and the growl is a low, throaty sound, your puppy is having fun.
- “I’m nervous.” – Your puppy whines.
Happy Postures
- “Let’s play!” – The play-bow is your friend’s invitation to have fun together. He’ll pounce with his front legs, hike up his behind, and look at you expectantly.
- “Chase me!” – If you’re playing and he runs off and loops around, he wants you to come after him. He may also stand erect, with his tail wagging slowly. He may accompany this posture with panting and hanging his tongue to one side.
- “Won’t you please rub my belly?” – When he rolls around as if scratching his back, he’s relaxed and requesting a belly-rub. His head and rear legs may be flopped to the side, with mouth open and tail wagging slowly.
SOS Behaviors
- “I’m scared.” – If your dog runs away because he’s frightened, he’s looking to hide or put distance between you. He’ll tuck his tail downward. He may also retract or lick his lips.
- “I’m insecure.” – He cowers and tries to make himself small.
- “I’m not sure.” He’s undecided if his eyes and body are shifting. He may move forward but then retreat. His tail may be tucked under his belly, arched over his back, or fluctuating between the two positions. His mouth may be tense, trembling, or licking.
- “I’m done playing.” – If your puppy is frolicking and suddenly stops, he may just be tired. Puppies have short bursts of energy, followed by the need to nap. Abruptly ending a game can also signal an urge to go potty.
Relieving Signals
These body language signs are especially important. Puppies can’t hold their urine for prolonged periods. This capacity develops over time. Here are signs that foretell the need for elimination.
- “I need to pee.” – Your pup’s tail straightens horizontally and moves stiffly from side-to-side as he walks. He sniffs the ground as he walks around, looking for a place to urinate. He may suddenly trot to a corner or another room, trying to find a secluded spot. Another sign is restlessness that’s not triggered by a stimulus. An urgent need is indicated by whimpering, circling, and staring. He may also station himself near the door.
- “I have to make #2.” – Your pup will continue to sniff, with his tail straight and stiff. He may slow his pace or just stop dead in his tracks.
Practicing Your Puppy-Speech
Communication is the basis of happy canine companionship. Your puppy will use the same basic body language as he matures, adding slightly to his vocabulary. Understanding puppy-speak paves the way for a lifetime of friendship and love.