An Introduction to

Canine Body Language

 Before we get started…

Dominance Theory But Really…

• Social hierarchy in • Original theory
which the alpha debunked
controls all resources • Dogs are dogs
• Individuals fight to gain • Dominance is a
dominance & the alpha relationship between
position two individuals
• Originated from a 1947 • Hierarchies & control of
study on captive wolves resources are fluid
• Dictators are always
overthrown
Dog Body Language
 Types of Signals

• Signs of Comfort
– Play Signals
• Signs of Discomfort
– Appeasement Signals
– Calming Signals
– Stress Signals
– Early Warning Signs
• Fear
• Frustration/Arousal
– Warning Signs
 Signs of Comfort
• Body Position
– Ears High & Back
– Open, loose mouth
– Loose body
– Tail at “half mast”
• Play Signals
– Play bow
– Paw raise
– Bouncy/inefficient movement
– Humping
– Body Checks
– Muzzle Punch
– Growling/Barking/Whining
Comfortable Body Position:
Ears High & Back