Decoding your dog’s body language: what your pup is really telling you

Ever wished your dog could talk? While they may not be able to speak with you directly, your furry friend is constantly chatting with you - through tail wags, ear twitches, and the occasional dramatic flop on the floor. Understanding your dog’s body language can make life easier for both of you, especially during high-stress or unfamiliar situations. Here are a few key behaviours to look out for:

1. The tail tells all

The classic tail wag can mean different things depending on how it moves:

• High and wagging: Your dog is happy and confident - perfect for greeting guests or discovering a new toy.
• Low or tucked: Nervousness or anxiety. Sudden noises or a busy environment might have your pup feeling uneasy.
• Slow wag: Caution or curiosity. Think of your dog sizing up a new piece of furniture or a stranger at the door.
  

2. Ears up, ears down

Dog ears are surprisingly expressive:

• Forward and alert: Your dog is paying attention - maybe they’ve heard the jingle of keys or the sound of the mail arriving. 
• Flat or pinned back: Fear or submission. Time to give them a cosy spot away from anything overwhelming or loud, scary noises.
• One up, one down: Confused or curious - likely a common reaction to strange situations such as Halloween costumes and masks!
  

3. Eyes speak louder than words

Your pup’s eyes are another big clue:

• Soft, relaxed eyes: Calm and content. You’re safe to offer cuddles or a treat.
• Wide eyes with whites showing: Stress, fear, or excitement. Unfamiliar environments or sudden noises, such as fireworks, can trigger this.
• Blinking slowly: Relaxed and trusting. Your dog is basically saying, ‘I like you… but maybe pass the peanut butter first.’
  

4. Body posture and movement

• Play bow (front legs down, rear up): ‘Let’s play!’ Great for a game of chase or tug-of-war with their favourite toy.
• Cowering or hunched: Scared. Loud sounds, strangers, or busy spaces might be overwhelming, so create a safe haven with blankets and calming toys.
• Leaning in or nudging: Affection or seeking reassurance. Perfect excuse to share some belly rubs.
  

5. Vocal clues

Barking, whining, growling - they’re all part of the conversation:

• Excited barking: Guests, new toys, or someone at the door can trigger this.
• Whining or whimpering: Stress or discomfort. A cosy corner, loving attention, or a favourite chew can help.
• Growling: Warning - don’t force interaction, especially with objects or people your dog isn’t familiar with.
  

Tips for seasonal or noisy times

After learning to read your dog’s body language, you’ll be better equipped to respond to their needs - but what about those times when the world gets particularly noisy or overwhelming? Seasonal events like Halloween and fireworks can be stressful for many pups, even if they usually handle everyday life with ease.

Here are a few lighthearted tips to keep tails wagging instead of tucked:

• Create a safe, quiet space: build a cosy den with their toys and a blanket fort.
• Use calming supplements: such as Dorwest’s Scullcap and Valerian tablets, to help reduce anxiety during loud noises, spooky Halloween festivities, or fireworks.
• Stick to routine: walks, meals, and cuddles at usual times keep anxiety levels low.
• Treat them like VIPs: a special chew or snuffle toy can distract from the noise outside.

By paying attention to these cues and creating a supportive environment, you’ll help your dog feel safe, happy, and confident - even during the spookiest nights or the loudest fireworks displays. Decoding their body language isn’t just useful - it’s fun! And when you can anticipate their fears and joys, you’ll both enjoy seasonal celebrations and everyday life a lot more.