WA Pet Owners Decoding the Dog: More Than Just Barks

My dogs are so funny! And so full of personality. I am closely watching how they are interacting with my sister's dogs in Utah as I'm traveling.

Trying to establish dominance, playing coy, or ignoring another. Distinct behaviors communicating their un easiness or hopeful communion. It's really quite interesting and precious to watch.

My dog Rowdy who is the most passive dog in the world (and usually gets along with everyone) is behaving very possessively and my female dog Sable is deciding she will be the Queen of the pack and would like to be treated as such!

Meanwhile, Jasper (My sister's male dog) just wants someone to romp and play with and her female dog Luna, is terrified of mine and just wants to hide from all the commotion.

We all think we know what our dogs are saying. A tail wag means happiness, a whine means hunger and a bark means "Let me out!" But dog communication is far more nuanced.

Dogs communicate through a complex interplay of body language, vocalizations, and even scent.

A stiff tail might not always mean aggression and a happy wag can sometimes signal anxiety. Subtle cues like ear position, lip licking, and even the way they hold their body can convey a wealth of information.

Beyond human interactions, dogs have their own intricate social language.

Dogs use subtle shifts in posture, play bows, and specific barks to establish dominance, negotiate play, and form bonds.

Just like humans, dogs possess unique personalities and emotional ranges.

Some are playful and boisterous, while others are calm and reserved. They experience joy, fear, frustration, and love, just as we do.

Understanding canine communication goes beyond simple commands.

It's about truly connecting with your dog, recognizing their individual needs and emotions, and hopefully constantly building a stronger, more fulfilling relationship.

I find myself wanting to scold my dogs when they snarl at another dog but maybe that is telling them it's not okay to set boundaries etc with the other dogs. Still, I want my dogs to behave "politely" haha so we'll see how it goes.

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