Canine Body Language
|
|
Every dog was bred for a specific purpose. Even mixed breed dogs have genetically instilled instincts. When a dog becomes destructive or does not seem to listen it is usually due to his genetic make-up, not because he's a "bad dog." There are no bad dogs, only those that are misunderstood. People do not understand canine language, therefore misinterpreting what their dogs are trying to communicate.
Try to put yourself into your dog's world. You are telling your companions that you need to exercise, or that you hate being alone and bored all day. Yet, despite your pleas you are ignored and they continue to abandon you. You decide to entertain yourself, get out your frustrations and exercise at the same time. After destroying the couch cushions, you still have some energy left so you find a pair of yummy leather shoes. After all, leather is real close to your rawhide bone and so much softer. You do not think of the consequences of your actions. Only that you needed the outlet.
|
|
Another way to analogize this situation is to travel to a country where you do not speak the language and you cannot find an interpreter to help you. Frustrating, right? How will you find your way around to see the sights? How will you tell the waiters what you want to eat? How will you know what you are pointing at on the menu? Sign language only goes so far.
Begin your relationship with your dog by clarifying the communication process. Learn to speak his language. Teach him your desires in a way he understands. Through this process, he will learn the meanings of your words, body language and house rules.
Most animals communicate mainly through the use of body language. The way they hold their ears, nose, body, tail, etc. Each minute movement has a meaning. We often misunderstand our canine's meaning when we see his teeth or the fur along his spine standing upward. There are nuances of these behaviors that offer completely different definitions. Observation of animals interacting with each other is the key to full understanding.
Here is a small list of common canine body language, the definitions, and how to react to them:
1. Your dog is greeting you, but showing his front teeth. His tail is wagging slowly.
Definition: Your dog is happy to see you but also showing you submission. Crouch down to his level and greet him enthusiastically. This will prevent him from Trying to jump on you
2. Your dog is looking at another dog, his ears perked forward, eyes staring, tail wagging, fur slightly raised along his shoulders.
Definition: He wants to go greet the other dog, but is a bit afraid. Should you restrain him by pulling his neck collar, this behavior can turn into aggression toward the other dog. Your dog needs more time to interact with others of his own species.
3. Your dog has a habit of staring directly into your eyes or those of other family members.
Definition: This is called the Alpha Stare. It's a means of showing dominance. Never look away first. Looking away first makes you appear submissive to your dog. However, if you are being stared at by a strange dog in his yard, look away and slowly back out of his yard. Not heeding his warning can be dangerous.
4. Your dog is greeted by another dog who is prancing around him, tail up, ears forward, neck arched, and eyes staring.
Definition: This other dog is showing dominance to your dog. Provided your dog remains submissive (i.e. keeps a low profile and does not stare back), things will be fine. However, if your dog is not a submissive type, break off the interaction by calling him to come to you, and walking away.
5. Your dog is showing the sides of his teeth with a curled lip.
Definition: This is a sign of aggression. It is currently a warning which, if not heeded, will turn into a bite. This should never be allowed to happen with your own pet. Seek the help of a professional trainer immediately.
6. Your dog is panting lightly, ears swiveling or held at the side. His tail is still.
Definition: Your dog is relaxed/happy.
These are but a few canine body language communications. To fully understand canine body language there are several books available that can help. However, the best means of learning what your dog is telling you is through observation and an open mind. Anthropomorphizing will not help you understand anything. Canines do not think in the same manner as humans.
Tips Archives
