Reading dog body language on a walk: what to watch for.

Look at the whole dog

No single signal tells the full story. Watch the face, ears, eyes, mouth, tail, and the way the dog is holding its body, and think about the situation they are in.

Signs of a relaxed dog

• Loose, wiggly body and a soft, open mouth
• Ears in a natural position and soft eyes
• A tail carried in a natural position, or wagging in a loose, sweeping way
• Easy, bouncy walking with a loose leash

Signs a dog may be stressed or uncomfortable

• Lip licking, yawning, or panting when it is not hot or after exercise
• Ears pinned back and a tucked tail
• Showing the whites of the eyes, or turning the head away
• A stiff body, freezing, or sudden slowing down on the walk
• Shaking off as if wet when the dog is dry

When you see these, give the dog space. Increase the distance from whatever worries it, speak calmly, and avoid pulling on the leash.

Signs a dog may react

A hard stare, a stiff and still body, raised hackles, a closed mouth, and a tail held high and rigid can mean a dog is on alert. A growl is communication, not misbehavior. Do not punish it. It is a warning that tells you to change something about the situation.

What play looks like

Play usually includes bouncy movements, play bows with the front end down and the rear end up, role reversals where the chaser becomes the chased, and breaks in the action. If one dog keeps trying to get away, or the play looks one-sided, step in calmly and separate them.

What to do on a walk

• Know your dog's usual signals before you try to read new ones. Ask the owner what is normal.
• Cross the street or turn around early if another dog looks tense. It is always easier to avoid a problem than to fix one.
• Keep treats if the owner allows them, and use them to reward calm behavior.
• If you are ever unsure, create distance first and decide afterward.

More guides

See how to become a dog walker, dog park etiquette, and how to introduce your dog to a new walker.

Written by the Dote editorial team. This article gives general information, not professional veterinary or legal advice.