by Bridget Webber

Created on: November 02, 2008   Last Updated: December 02, 2008

Have you ever wondered what your dog is thinking about? If so you may be interested to know that the secret to finding out what your furry friends thoughts are is revealed by his body language.

Although dogs do communicate verbally the communication that dogs use most proficiently is non verbal. By learning the non-spoken language of dogs you can go a long way to finding out what your dog is really thinking.

One of the most common and widely known actions of body language that a dog uses is via his tail. We all tend to know that when his tail is wagging our dog is pleased about something. But did you know that your dog uses his tail to show other thoughts too?

When a dog is feeling threatened, or even aggressive he raises his tail right up in the air as a show of defiance. When he is afraid he will do exactly the opposite by laying his tail flat down so that it is tucked between his legs. When accompanied by his ears being held flat down and with a slinking movement from his body you can be sure that your dog is thinking that he wishes that he could get away from what ever is bothering him so much.

When your dog is feeling fine and dandy you will notice that his ears are in a relaxed position, neither pricked up high or held down low. His tail will be relaxed too, not up in the air or held tightly down for dear life. When your dog has his tail and ears in this relaxed position all is well in his world.

As well as his ears and tail your dog will use his eyes to reveal some of his thoughts. In dog language staring may be interpreted as being aggressive. However if your dog just looks at you, but his body looks relaxed or his tail is wagging he is probably just trying to get your attention.

If he wants to play his ears may be tipped forward as his tail wags. He may even bounce around to show his enthusiasm. This type of joyful behaviour is typical of a dog who is about to go out for walkies.

If your dog is communicating to you that he is being submissive he may well lay on his back and show you his belly. Any dog that does this in front of you is aware that you are the boss.

Learning the secret language of your dog can be rewarding and fun, helping you to get the most out of your relationship.

Learn more about this author, Bridget Webber.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.