20 Gestures to Understand Your Furry Friend

Did you know your furry one has his own language for talking to you? Reading it correctly can be quite a challenge. Here at Dukier, we want you to understand him well enough to pick which outfit he wears each day.

That is why we have put together a list of 20 essential gestures with the help of canine psychology specialists, so you can better understand your furry one's feelings and needs. Find out everything that goes on in his mind!

Gestures involving the tail

1. Tail wagging hard and fast: This movement means excitement, joy and happiness. A tail wagging slowly, on the other hand, means your dog is calm or feeling lazy.
2. Tail low or between his legs: It is a sign of fear, insecurity or submission. Have a look around to work out what might be causing this reaction.
3. Stiff, upright tail: A tail like this can mean he is on alert or getting ready to attack aggressively.

Signals in the ears

1. Ears forward: They mean curiosity or interest in something specific.
2. Ears back: They mean fear or submission, and if he also flattens them right back it can mean he feels uncomfortable or threatened by a situation.

Facial Expressions

1. Mouth pulled back. This can mean your furry one is uncomfortable or even that something is hurting him.
2. Half-closed eyes: Relaxation and trust. It is common while he is being stroked.
3. Staring: If your furry one stares wide-eyed at another dog, it can mean dominant or challenging behaviour. If he stares at you, though, he may be trying to get your attention or build an affectionate bond.

Body Movements

1. Walking in circles before lying down: It means your dog is trying to find the comfiest position or to mark his territory so he can rest peacefully.
2. Standing up: If he stands up on his back legs, it means he wants to get our attention, show us something or ask us for something.
3. Your dog shows you his belly: It means he trusts you completely and is after a game or a bit of affection.

Vocalisations and Sounds

1. Growling: Soft growls can mean uncertainty or unease. If he growls very obviously and bares his teeth, though, it means defence and that he is protecting himself from the situation. It is a warning sign.
2. Barking: Loud, constant barking means alarm or warning. Soft, quick barking means excitement or a wish to play.

Common Postures and Behaviours

1. Hackles up on the neck or back: He is trying to make himself bigger or look intimidating to other dogs. A clear sign of alert or threat.
2. Biting or licking his food before eating. It means your furry one is trying to mark his territory or show his dominance over the food.
3. Panting excessively: Although sometimes it is just the heat, it can also mean stress or anxiety.

Gestures at Play

1. Wiggling his bottom while lowering his front legs: The classic play bow. It means he is ready to have fun with you.
2. Gently biting his toys: A sign of relaxation or entertainment. If he does it with things he should not, it could be boredom.

Warning or Anxiety Gestures

1. Looking for a comfort zone. If you see him constantly looking for a quiet or familiar spot, it means your furry one does not feel safe or settled.
2. Excessive licking or scratching: Anxiety, or even a sign of physical discomfort. See your vet if the behaviour carries on.

Tips for Reading Your Dog

We are sure these little tricks will help you understand your four-legged friend better! Here are a few more tips for reading your dog's gestures:

• Context: no gesture should be read on its own. Look at the surroundings and at your dog's general behaviour.
• Your reaction matters: stay calm and reassure your dog when he shows signs of stress or discomfort. If you notice unusual behaviour, you should see an expert who can help you understand and assess in depth what is going on with him.
• Know his personality: every dog is unique, and understanding his character will help you read his signals better.

Here at Dukier, we believe that understanding your furry one is key to strengthening the bond between you. We hope this guide helps you read his language and improve how you communicate. If you want more tips, have a look at the full Dog Dictionary here and find out how to make your dog feel better understood.

Give your dog the attention he deserves and get ready to build a super special bond! 🐾