Do you speak dog?

Do you speak dog? If you are a dog owner who answered no to that question it might be time for some quick intensive training. Our dogs don't speak in words, although they do vocalise with barks and growls and whimpers. Because we humans are vocal animals ourselves we tend to tap into what our dog's particular 'woofs' mean. But are we tuned into what their body language represents? Often we're not, yet the way a dog uses its body and facial expressions to convey feelings is a major part of canine communication.

If your dog roots himself to the spot he may be wary of something or feeling insecure. A dog will often do this if he is in possession of a prized object or food that he wants to guard. The need to protect his possessions is shown in this frozen stance. When a dog bares his teeth it is a warning. The snarl gesture is the canine's way of showing enemies that he has sharp teeth and is prepared to use them if necessary. The dog who bares his teeth in this way is telling other dogs and people to keep away, or else.

Your dog may emit growls when you engage in rough and tumble play with him, but this is simply role play. It's a let's pretend situation. There's a big difference between play growling and the real thing. When your dog growls for real it is a warning. When the growl accompanies the baring of teeth gesture it's a more serious warning, your dog means business. He's not playing around.

A dog will make himself look bigger and more intimidating to potential threats by raising his hackles. When he does this the hair on his back rises, giving the impression that he is much larger than he actually is. It's a very effective way of warding off enemies. If something gets your dog's back up be cautious, he is more likely to bite when his hackles are raised.

Most of us have heard the term 'tail between his legs' used to describe someone who is dejected or feeling embarrassed. If your dog does this he may be afraid or sad. Perhaps the most obvious way a dog shows his feelings is through his tail. When he wags it, you know he's happy. Even if you don't speak fluent dog, the joyfully wagging tail is a universal sign of happiness.

Understanding your dog's language is a case of looking as well as listening. The dog is said to be man's best friend, learning his language can help us better understand him.