Understanding Dog Behavior & Body Language

Taking An In-Depth Look At Dog Behavior And Body Language To Help Prevent Dog Bites In Honor Of National Dog Bite Prevention Week

As we observe National Dog Bite Prevention Week (2nd full week of April), it’s essential to educate ourselves about dog behavior and body language. At Long Island Pet Services, we believe that understanding how dogs communicate can help prevent bites and foster safer interactions between humans and their canine companions. Whether you’re a dog owner or simply someone who encounters dogs in daily life, recognizing warning signs and respecting their signals is key to avoiding potentially dangerous situations.

Why Dogs Bite

Dogs typically bite as a defensive reaction when they feel threatened, cornered, or stressed. They may also bite to protect resources like food, toys, or territory. Understanding their behavior and body language can help us identify when a dog feels uncomfortable or is nearing its threshold for aggression.

Key Signs of Stress or Aggression

Dogs communicate through subtle cues before escalating to aggressive behaviors. Here are some common warning signs:

• Body Stiffness: A rigid or frozen posture often indicates tension and discomfort.
• Whale Eye: When a dog shows the whites of its eyes while turning its head away from a perceived threat.
• Ears Flattened or Pulled Back: This can signal fear or nervousness.
• Raised Hackles: The fur on the back of the neck standing up is a clear sign of arousal or aggression.
• Tail Position: A tail held high and stiff or tucked tightly between the legs indicates stress or fear.
• Growling or Snarling: These vocalizations often accompany tense body language and are direct warnings.
• Lip Licking or Panting: Rapid panting or licking lips without food present can indicate anxiety.

Recognizing Relaxed vs. Tense Body Language

A relaxed dog typically exhibits soft body posture, wagging tail (in broad strokes), almond-shaped eyes, and an open mouth with no tension. In contrast, a tense dog may freeze, stare intensely, close its mouth suddenly, or display facial wrinkles.

Tips To Prevent Dog Bites

Whether interacting with your own dog or an unfamiliar one, follow these tips to reduce the risk of bites:

 

 

DOs

1. Observe Body Language: Pay attention to signs of stress like stiff posture, growling, or avoidance behaviors.
2. Give Space: Avoid crowding a dog’s personal space, especially if it is eating, sleeping, or guarding an item.
3. Remain Calm: If approached by an unfamiliar dog, stay still and avoid sudden movements.
4. Teach Children Safety: Never leave children unsupervised with dogs and teach them not to tease or startle dogs.

DON’Ts

1. Avoid Direct Eye Contact: Staring at a dog can be perceived as a challenge.
2. Don’t Approach Strange Dogs: Especially if they are tethered, behind fences, or with puppies.
3. Don’t Run Away: Running can trigger a dog’s chase instinct and escalate aggression

What To Do If an Attack Occurs

If you find yourself in a situation where a dog attacks:

• Use an object (e.g., bag, stick) to distract the dog.
• Avoid pulling away if bitten; this can worsen injuries.
• Protect your vital areas by curling into a fetal position if necessary.
• Seek medical attention immediately after any bite.

Building Trust Through Understanding

By learning to interpret canine body language and respecting their boundaries, we can create safer environments for both humans and dogs. At Long Island Pet Services, we encourage responsible pet ownership and advocate for better communication between people and their furry friends. Let’s honor National Dog Bite Prevention Week by spreading awareness and ensuring every interaction with dogs is safe and positive!

Looking For A Pet Sitter Or Dog Walker?

The best way to keep your pets happy, healthy, and sociable is to hire a pet sitter! But, don’t hire just anyone. Hire the professionals!  Long Island Pet Services is the best place to turn to for professional, quality pet sitting services.

We offer a wide variety of services including dog walking, drop-in visits, overnight stays, pet taxi, and more! Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 516-247-6976. We look forward to hearing from you! Be sure to check out our social media pages too! Follow us on our Facebook, Instagram, and X!