The Dog Language

It may sound a bit different that there are people who understand the dog's language. This is what creates a difference between seasoned dog owners and the novices. The seasoned ones develop a bond with their dogs much deeper and they are the ones who can conveniently understand the dog language. Most of the times it is body language, barks or growls. The important thing is that you can only have a healthy relationship with your dog when you understand him the way you want him to understand you.

So, how can you understand what your dog is saying to you? The barks or the growls may sound just like senseless noises, but the gestures with the barks or growls, when understood by you is the actual essence of relationship you want have with your newly brought in dog.

• Wagging the tail - When your dog is happily wagging his tail and his tongue, he is in a playful mood. He may even lower the front of his body to the floor and raise his little hind end in the air. He is probably full of energy and ready for play time.

• Ears standing up - Something has caught his attention. He may stop wagging his tail and even lean his head to the side to pay closer attention to whatever is catching his eye. This does not always mean that there is some danger it might mean he has found something new.

• Bearing his teeth - This is considered a show of aggression. He possibly will do this with strangers or when meet an animal that he feels vulnerable by or that may be intimidating you.

• Lying on the ground with tail down when he greets you - This is a way of greeting you that shows loyalty also. When you walk into the house, he may lower himself to ground. This pose is also referred to as an "active submission." He doesn't feel threatened or fearful. It is a way to express his friendship, accepting that you are the boss and a friend.

Now, your dog makes other noises besides barking. Barking can have many meanings in itself, so we are going to talk about other sounds that your dog may makes which you may like to be aware of.

• Growling - Your dog shouldn't be growling at you, but he may growl at strangers. It could also be in response to his sensing that you are uncomfortable with someone. If your dog does growl at you when you take something away from him, it could be a play for the alpha position.

• Whining - This is such a cute gesture. Sadly it can be annoying as well if you are trying to get him to do something that he doesn't specifically like to do, like to go to the vet. In these times, ignoring the whine lets him know that it won't get him out of doing his duty. Droning can also go along with their show of loyalty and greeting.