Dogs’ body language as a way of communication part 1

Our dogs don’t use English (or any other human language) but they communicate with us through their body language.

Have you ever misread a text message from your friend or a spouse because you haven’t noticed that it was supposed to be sarcastic? It is sometimes hard to fully understand a written word. When we speak in person we read each other’s body language all the time. Without it, our communication is a lot more complicated.

We communicate with each other through the use of words and we can’t help it but talk to our dogs too. I totally do it! However, if we could spend a little bit more time reading our dogs’ body language, we could understand them better.

How do you think your dog can tell you that he doesn’t want you to pet him right now? He doesn’t know words, he cannot speak the language, so what else can he use?

How about the movement of his body? Have you ever noticed him moving away from you or looking away? What do you think it might mean?

Because we are so verbal, we sometimes miss the subtle signs our dogs give us. Maybe he doesn’t want to be petted right now because he is too full at the minute and his stomach hurts? Have you ever been hugged by someone after you just had a huge dinner? I know that it makes me uncomfortable, to say the least.

Reading dogs body language is a skill that we can develop. Start from observing him and asking yourself questions like: why is he doing that at this moment? Your dog leaves you clues all the time. It is not always easy to start noticing them but with a little bit of practice – everything is becoming easier.

Be a superhero for your dog – he will love you for it!