WILD- Topic 7: Behavior and Body Language

Dogs are considered predatory species, meaning that they have strong instincts to prey on other lesser species. These instincts include aggressive behaviors by nature to catch and eat prey as well as to defend themselves. Although domestic dogs cats have been “tamed” so to speak, they still have many of those instinctual defense mechanisms which, if faced with a life-threatening and/or painful situation, may cause them to lash out aggressively, potentially causing harm to their rescuer(s).

You need to know how to recognize aggressive signs in dogs. They have recognizable behaviors that one can identify before approaching the dog. Do not think that your own pet will never bite you. Even the cuddliest, fuzziest, and sweetest animal can bite if it feels threatened.

The most important thing to remember when approaching an injured or ill dog is to approach with caution. When an animal is injured or ill it may be scared and in pain. Their first reaction to a predator is usually to scramble to get away, or to bite to protect itself.

Dogs communicate through body language. When using body language to interpret the message an animal is trying to get across, it is important to consider both the context and the animal’s individual personality. 

Tail held high:

 When a dog holds his tail high, it often signals high arousal and the possibility of aggressive behavior. A dog that is agitated may also flick their tail back and forth vigorously. A dog is more likely to carry his tail in a neutral position, extended out behind him, when they are relaxed.

Wagging tail:

Friendly dogs wag their tail loosely back and forth at medium height. 

Closed mouth:

Relaxed dogs may have a closed or partially open mouth. The more tense a dog is, the more tightly closed their mouth may become, although a very stressed dog may pant heavily or yawn.

Ears up for greeting:

One sign of a friendly dog is that the dog’s ears move back just slightly. A submissive dog will move their ears back even further as an appeasement gesture. Dogs with erectly pricked ears may be ready to stand their ground against another animal if necessary, however this behavior is specific to the individual dog.

Turning to the side:

Dogs turn their bodies to the side when attempting to shut off a potential threat. A dog may do this in order to show that he means no harm.

Lying belly up:

A dog is likely to lie on their back as a submissive greeting behavior or as a way to get their belly rubbed by someone.