Body Communication: Understanding Our Dogs

We often use the term “body language” to describe how dogs communicate through their physical actions. However, “body language” may be a misnomer, as language implies the transfer of specific thoughts and ideas, whereas communication simply conveys emotion and tone. For humans, language is nuanced and complex, involving words and phrases to convey distinct ideas. In contrast, dogs communicate through signals that reflect their emotions and states of mind, rather than specific ideas. For this reason, “body communication” may be a more accurate term when discussing how dogs use posture, movement, and sounds to express themselves.

How Dogs Communicate Emotion

When dogs bark, they’re not necessarily “saying” anything specific. Instead, they use pitch, volume, and rhythm to convey emotion, from excitement to fear or warning. Unlike humans, dogs don’t rely on a formal language structure to express ideas.

Humans, on the other hand, typically communicate thoughts and ideas verbally. Though we also use body communication, many of us are unaware of the subtle cues we give off and often react rather than respond thoughtfully. For example, we might maintain direct eye contact, stand with squared shoulders, and use open palms to show honesty. When interacting with dogs, however, these gestures can have a different effect: direct eye contact can feel intimidating, squared shoulders may seem confrontational, and a pat on the top of the head can be misinterpreted as overbearing. Dogs, in contrast, use softer eye contact, look-aways, and gentle, off-center body angles to show calmness and approachability.

How Dogs Observe Us

Dogs constantly monitor our body movements, much like a hearing-impaired person might watch for visual cues. Our dogs are highly attuned to our center of gravity, which gives them a clue to our next move. They watch our hips for forward and backward shifts and our chest and shoulders for signs of height or spatial adjustments. If we bend over a dog, for instance, they might jump up to match our level. Eye contact, too, can convey emotion and intention in powerful ways.

Using Body Movements to Guide Behavior

If I want a dog to sit without using verbal cues, I adopt a soft, angled stance rather than standing squarely in front of the dog, which might feel confrontational. To help guide them into a sit, I use my hips to gently rock forward, which can coax the dog to shift their weight back into a sitting position. By drawing attention to my eyes and keeping movements calm and subtle, the dog feels encouraged rather than pressured.

When guiding a dog to lie down, it’s a similar process. I maintain a calm stance and slightly lower my chest, inviting the dog to follow my lead. Initially, this may involve more dramatic shifts, but over time, it becomes a matter of subtle cues and a natural response from the dog.

Cues vs. Body Communication

Over time, body communication can support verbal cues, reinforcing them through consistent reactions. Karen Pryor’s book Don’t Shoot the Dog! discusses this concept, called “stimulus control.” For effective stimulus control, a dog should:

1. Respond to the cue consistently when given.
2. Avoid “offering” the behavior without the cue.
3. Avoid confusing cues or behaviors (e.g., performing “down” when asked to “sit”).
4. Refrain from performing anything unrelated or ignoring the cue entirely.

Understanding Body Communication in Dogs

Body communication is about reacting to each other’s movements and signals. Dogs who were well-socialized as puppies often respond readily to these subtle cues. However, not all dogs pick up on typical dog communication signals, whether due to fear, anxiety, or conditioning from previous environments. For some dogs, especially those who are anxious or who have missed early socialization, these cues might need reinforcing through training or even behavior therapy. If your dog struggles with reading or responding to cues, it may be beneficial to work with a trainer to assess underlying issues.

The Importance of Learning Canine Communication

Just as we might learn phrases in a new language when visiting a foreign country, it’s important to learn our dogs’ cues to create a shared understanding. Familiarizing ourselves with dog communication shows empathy and builds a stronger relationship. Noted authors like Turid Rugaas and Sarah Kalnajs have produced excellent resources on dog body communication. For example, Rugaas’s works provide insights into “calming signals,” a concept that describes how dogs use subtle cues to signal peace or reassurance to each other.

Conclusion: Communication is a Shared Journey

Building a mutual understanding with your dog requires patience, observation, and, often, the guidance of a professional. It’s a journey in learning how to interpret each other’s signals and respond with compassion. As you continue working with your dog, remember that both of you are learning together. For further insights, feel free to reach out, ask questions, or share videos!