Although dogs can’t actually speak, this doesn’t mean you can’t understand what they are telling you. Dogs are descended from wolves and are used to being in a close group, called a pack. They need to be able to communicate with other pack members so they can explain what they want, and work out who’s in charge.
Most dogs live with humans nowadays and, as far as they are concerned, the people around them are either part of their pack, or are a threat to their pack. So, they will communicate with them just as if they were other dogs and the main method they use to ‘speak’ is body language.
Opposite is a useful Dog to Human dictionary to help you make sense of your canine friends.
|
MOVEMENT |
MEANING |
|
Putting part of his body on top of yours – for example a paw resting on your leg |
I’m the boss |
|
Patting you with his paw |
You’re the boss |
|
Lying down watching you |
You’re the boss |
|
Rolling over so you can rub his stomach |
You’re the boss |
|
Tearing up things while you’re out |
I’m upset because you left me on my own |
|
Putting his front feet on the floor with his front legs stretched out and his bottom in the air |
I want to play |
|
Bright, alert eyes and relaxed lips, or his tongue hanging out |
I’m happy |
|
Lying down thumping his tail on the floor |
I’m happy |
|
Emitting a continuous, low growl |
I’m warning you that I might attack |
|
Teeth bared and snarling |
I’m about to attack |
|
Cocking his head to one side |
Hmm, that’s interesting |