Stress in Dog Body Language

 
     Dogs are communicating all the time.  Vocalizations are used when the body language has failed to deliver the message.  Many dogs learn to vocalize at the onset of a situation that has become predictable for them (for example, the "Speak" command creates a predictable outcome of a treat for some dogs).  By learning more about our dog's body language, and what it is intended to project, we can greatly enhance our relationship with them, train more easily, and prevent many undesirable or dangerous behavior patterns.

Brutus is poised and ready for action!

     In the years I have spent as a trainer and behavioral consultant, I have seen it to be a common occurrence for owners to have never seen their dogs in a calm and attentive state.  They have become so accustomed to their dogs being stressed and hyperactive that seeing the dog respond in a calm submissive nature appears to be an alien body-take-over.  The whole body trembling or dancing in circles that begins in puppy basic obedience classes is not a normal or desirable state of existence for an adult canine.



     Dog body language can display slightly differently in different breeds.  There are some details that stand out across breed lines however.  If you have ever seen your dog when they have caught scent or sight of something irressitable-  it could be a squirrel, squeaky toy, or your evening meal- you have seen a hypertensive, alert pose.  Consider the physical toll on the body. 


     When a dog is poised like this, whether it is in a "pointing" pose or a "play bow" ALL of the muscles in the body are being tensed and used to freeze in this position.  Other dogs can instantly sense this tension, and it can spread like wildfire!  If you are playing outside, it is nice to let them burn off a little energy.  When every small noise causes this amount of nervous response in the home, it can cause stress in a dog, and affect their overall mental and physical health.

Silver likes to relax in the grass after a good romp.

     Another time when high energy is likely to be misinterpreted by a human is when considering greetings.  Most people prefer that dogs do not jump up on them when "saying hello".  But consistently insisting on a calm greeting is one of the most under-emphasized skills I have seen exercised in the training world.  The insane wiggling, whining or running in crazy laps around the house upon your return from work should not be a normal response!  It does not mean your dog loves you, it actually is a manifestation of stress.  Your presence should be a stress relief for your dog, not the signal for adrenaline rush. 


     Having your dog sit for petting is the first step.  Teaching them that petting from other people (or you coming home from work) is no reason to be stressed should be the final culmination.  

     A lot of what I do is teach dogs how to relax.  The difference it makes in their lives, and in turn, the lives of their humans is a lasting reward.  Take some time to relax with your dog today!

*Photos by Thomas Brown, PawsThenPlay Photography*

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