Signs of Fear in Dogs

 Dogs communicate primarily through body language.  Small changes in tail position, ear position, and lip commissure, for example, can all tell a great deal about how a dog is feeling.  Some of these postures are easily deciphered by the average owner, and others may be more easily overlooked.

Some signs of Fear are:

1.      Crouched body posture ( with rounded topline in more extreme state of fear)

2.      Tucked Tail (between hind legs)

3.      Squinting or sleepy looking  eyes  

4.      Panting (when your dog is not hot or has not just exercised)

5.      Hypervigilant (eyes darting, looking in many directions)

6.      Furrowed Brow

7.      Ears out to the sides and back, or Flattened against head (more extreme state of fear)

8.      Corners of lips drawn back

9.      Slow body movements

10.   Refusing food, when food is normally a good motivator for the dog

11.   Tongue Flick (flicking tongue out of mouth or licking lips quickly with tip of tongue)

12.   Looking away or avoiding person or situation.

13.   Yawning

14.   Lifting a paw

NOTE:  These signs are meant to be taken in context with one another and with the situation at hand.  Some of these body postures when done alone may have alternate meanings.

Recognizing body language is very important when training your dog, and even more important when rehabilitating a fearful or aggressive dog.   With some basic knowledge we can be better equipped to handle situations, because we can recognize and redirect a situation before it progresses.  This is why knowledge is the 1^st layer in Foundation Dog Training.  If you haven’t already checked out the videos on body language in the Knowledge section, do so now.  Your dog will be glad you did!

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