Photo from Unsplash
Originally Posted On: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/news/canine-behavior-demystified-prevent-attacks-by-understanding-dog-body-language/ar-AA1frzuW?disableErrorRedirect=true&infiniteContentCount=0
Dog lovers! You could never imagine a furry friend coming up to you with aggression, right? However, it does sometimes happen, and you should know how to protect yourself against an attack.
Dog attacks have become more common these days, and Ancillary K9 Dog Training recommends that all dogs undergo training to ensure they never become aggressive. But, you must know how to protect yourself in case you ever come into contact with an aggressive dog. The best defense is avoiding an attack, and to do this, you must understand doggy language!
Unfortunately, understanding how dogs express themselves may seem intimidating at first. Fear not though – we are here to share tips on deciphering tail wags, wiggles, and woofs as part of becoming the ultimate Dog Whisperer!
1. Tail Wags
Are you wondering what wagging tail means? Well, prepare to be amazed. A gentle tail wag might mean, “Hey there, pal! I’m feeling just great!” But a rigid and rapid one might mean Sparky wants us all to take a back step a moment. If that happens then perhaps that is the dog’s way of communicating “Hmm, not sure about this stranger. Let me think.”
Now let’s delve deeper into the art of tail tales! When you spot that tail swishing like a windshield wiper on a rainy day, that is your pup’s way of saying they like you. That gentle wag of approval could even count as their way of giving you a high five! However, when your dog’s tail stiffens into an angry whippet’s heartbeat and starts wagging faster than an alarm clock, it could also mean “Caution!”
2. The Subtle Signs
Remember how sometimes when we feel anxious, we yawn? Well, pups do too – look out for lip licking, eye contact avoidance or any sudden shake off as telltale signs of anxiety.
Imagine this: you’re hanging out with your canine pal, and they start acting like they have had one too many cups of espresso. Dogs are smart, so before jumping to conclusions that they may be auditioning for some doggy dance-off competition, take a closer look. Is your pup giving their chops a quick lick like they just tasted the world’s spiciest chili? That may be their way of telling you they feel uncomfortable in this situation; or their shaking off like they just took a dip is their version of hitting reset.
3. Growl or Yowl
Let’s move onto growls and yowls: while not precisely songs we want to dance to, these are crucial notes in Fido’s orchestral repertoire. A low, throaty growl may serve as an early warning signal from Fido: you might hear him say something like, “Dude, back off a bit!” or even full-on warning of no trespassing signs if multiple growls and snarls sound simultaneously.
Welcome to the grand symphony of doggy dialects! Imagine you’re conversing with your furry pal when all of a sudden they let out a low guttural growl that you find alarming – before reacting in panic mode, let’s decode their dictionary: that low growl could be their way of telling you they need more time to process the situation. Back off and give them some space!
4. How to Meet New Dogs
Now listen carefully – when it comes to meeting new furry friends, the key to successful introductions lies in subtlety! When approaching new dogs for cuddling or play time, take it slowly – let them make the first move – they sniff, they approve. Simple!
Imagine this: in the park, an enthusiastic canine walks up curiously, nose twitching like they’ve come on to a hot case. Before leaping forward and giving an affectionate bear hug immediately, hold off. Instead use this moment as an opportunity to release some Zen mastery by stretching out the back of your hand for them to sniff at and smell you out before moving forward with the introduction. Remember, this is all about respecting their boundaries!
5. Attack Prevention
Dog training and awareness? To begin with, let’s review what dos and don’ts are imperative here: Approach slowly with palms open; allow the animal to explore you before approaching too quickly with tight grip or bear-hugging mode or staring them down. Dogs need their personal space just like we humans!
Let’s focus on attack prevention by engaging in training and awareness – the superhero duo of doggydom! Here is your plan: when approaching any dog, be like Batman sneaking up on an unaware cat: slowly approach with open hands as though offering up peace treaty terms; allow sniffing sessions (think security pat-down at the airport); avoid surprising bear hugs by not approaching too quickly or locking eyes like there’s a staring contest going on; personal space should apply equally well between humans AND dogs!
6. Kid Friendly Tips
Are your children running around unsupervised? Give them an elementary lesson on kid-dog diplomacy! Show them the dance of dog cues; for instance, wagging tails indicate enthusiasm while giving cold shoulders or backing away can serve as a signal that the dog doesn’t feel up for playing at this time – safety first!
Listen closely, mini-mes and future dog whisperers: it is time to teach those kiddos on the ABCs of doggy language! Imagine this: your munchkin meets a tail-wagging furball who lights up their eyes like an infinite star; but before going in for that all-out belly rub session, break out the dictionary – waggy tails could signal play time festivities; however stiffened ones indicate your young explorer needs some space; think of this like their dog’s own personal “Do Not Disturb” sign (Safety first!) Let your munchkins explore with caution!
Conclusion
So there it is, friends. Canine behavior decoded from chapter and verse! As you gain more knowledge, the more quickly you’ll recognize those hidden cues that make your pup tick – like finally understanding all those plot twists of your favorite show! So whether its tail twirls or tongue flicks, congratulations, you are now an official doggie whisperer, ready to charm those furry furballs into submission!
Before we part, remember: dog training and awareness are at the core of everything we do in this game. With patience and doggy wisdom at your side, you are well on your way to becoming the beloved canine magnet you have become! Stay tuned for more pup-tastic adventures – until then wag those tails wag and tap those paws!
