Dogs are not only our loyal companions but also creatures capable of expressing a wide range of emotions through their actions and body language. For dog lovers, understanding these signals can deepen your bond with your furry friend. 

In this article, Hi Raw! will explore the fascinating behaviors of dogs to help you better understand their emotions and states.

Happy and Joyful

When a dog feels happy, you’ll see them bouncing around you, wagging their tail vigorously, and barking joyfully. A happy pup will also often rub against you or snuggle close to show affection. If you notice your dog rolling around on the floor or jumping for joy, it’s a clear sign they’re feeling very happy.

• Ears: When happy, a dog’s ears will be relaxed and not pinned back.

• Eyes: Eyes will be a normal shape with dilated pupils.

• Body: A playful bow with the head lowered. Mouth relaxed open with the tongue lolling out in a “smile”.

• Tail: The tail is held slightly higher than normal but remains relaxed, not curled or stiff, and wags continuously.

Playful and Eager

If your furry friend wants to play, they'll be full of energy and excitement. They'll often run up to you and jump around, perhaps barking to get your attention. The classic "play bow" posture - with their bottom up and head down - is a clear sign your dog is eager to play.

• Ears: Ears will be erect or slightly tilted forward and moving.

• Eyes: Eyes will be normal shape, wide open, and bright.

• Body: The play bow posture with front legs extended and lowered, rear end raised, and tail wagging.

• Tail: The tail and lower back will wag vigorously. The tail will be high and slightly curved.

• While excited to play, puppies may bark enthusiastically.

Anxiety and Fear

When faced with a situation that makes them feel unsafe, dogs will exhibit different behaviors. They may retreat, hide behind you, or lie down in a small position. A tucked tail and pinned-back ears are clear signs they are feeling anxious or scared.

• Ears: Ears may be pinned back or pointed backward, no longer erect.

• Eyes: Whale eyes (dog looks sideways at everything so you can see the whites of their eyes).

• Body: Body may be tense or curled up, or the dog may crouch low to the ground as if trying to "disappear." This is often accompanied by a tucked-in neck, making them appear smaller.

• Tail: Tail may be held low or tucked between the legs, wagged slowly and cautiously, or wagged quickly, short, or in a circular motion.

Alertness and Curiosity

Cats aren't the only curious creatures. Dogs are too, and several of their body language cues indicate their curiosity. Just like the body language cues that show relaxation, curiosity has more subtle indicators. Chances are, you've interacted with these cues often and didn't even know it. While it may be easy to assume they're happy, these cues actually point to curiosity.

• Ears: Ears may be perked up and pointed forward, helping the dog hear sounds more clearly. They may also swivel their ears to pinpoint the source of a sound.

• Eyes: Eyes are wide open with pupils that may be dilated. A focused gaze or sidelong glances are common.

• Body: The body may be slightly leaning forward, indicating interest and curiosity. If the dog is standing straight with a slightly arched back, they are in an alert state, ready to react to whatever happens.

• Tail: The tail is often held upright or slightly curved, and may wag gently. If the tail is held stiffly and motionless, this may indicate alertness.

Want to be a dog whisperer? The secret is simple: spend time with your furry friend! Expose them to a variety of situations, from playing games to taking leisurely walks. In return, talk to them frequently – dogs understand tone and volume. Don't forget to relax and smile often; they know that expression is positive.

The more time you spend together, the better you'll learn to speak each other's language. Eventually, you may even be able to differentiate one bark from another.

Hi Raw! is a raw food for dogs and cats following the BARF diet - a natural biological-friendly diet, designed to be the most complete for the body and essential needs of our furry friends.

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