Your Dogs Body Language on a Walk

Understanding Your Dog's World: What Every Busy Owner Should Know

If you're a dog owner with a packed schedule, you know that your daily walks are more than just a toilet break for your furry friend—they're precious moments. But are you really tuned in to what your dog is trying to tell you during that time? Dogs are always communicating, and getting to grips with their behaviour doesn't just make you a better owner; it makes your life together safer and so much more rewarding. Let's take a look at what they're really saying when you're out and about.

Let's Talk Body Language

From the tip of their tail to the twitch of an ear, your dog is a walking, talking bundle of signals. Learning to read them is like learning a new language—it helps you sidestep so many awkward (and sometimes scary) moments with other people and pups.

• Tail Position: That wagging tail isn't always a sign of pure joy. A high, frantic wag can mean over-excitement, while a tail tucked right between the legs is a dead giveaway for fear or stress. What you’re looking for is that lovely, relaxed, mid-height swish.

• Ear Position: Ears pricked forward? Something’s definitely caught their attention. But if they're flattened back against their head, it's often a sign of worry or even aggression.

• Eye Contact: It’s all in the eyes, isn't it? Soft, squinty eyes are a good sign—they're feeling chilled out. A hard, unwavering stare, though? That’s often a challenge. And if they're pointedly looking away, they might just be feeling a bit overwhelmed.

• Mouth and Lips: A relaxed, open mouth—what we often call a 'doggy smile'—is a great sign. But watch out for lip licking when there's no food around; it's a classic stress signal. A growl or curled lip? Well, that's a warning you can't afford to miss.

• Posture: Think about their whole body. Is it loose and wiggly? Perfect. But if they suddenly go rigid, hunch over, or their hackles go up, that’s a clear red flag for fear or potential conflict. And then there's the classic 'play bow'—bum in the air, front end down. That's a universal invitation to have some fun!

Common Behaviours You'll See on a Walk

When you're pounding the pavements, keep an eye out for these everyday doggy habits:

• Sniffing: I like to call this 'reading the morning pee-mail'. Sniffing is how your dog catches up on all the local gossip. It's incredibly stimulating for their brain, so try not to rush them. Let them have a good 'sniffari'!

• Pulling on Leash: Ah, the classic leash-pulling. It's usually down to pure excitement or maybe a bit of anxiety, but it can also be a sign that they just haven't learned the ropes of walking politely yet. It’s definitely something you can improve with patience and consistent training.

• Barking: Dogs bark for a million different reasons—they’re thrilled to see a squirrel, nervous about a stranger, warning you about the postman, or just trying to get your attention. Look at the context to figure out the 'why' behind the 'woof'.

• Greeting Other Dogs: Watching dogs meet is fascinating. You want to see loose, wiggly bodies and maybe a bit of polite sniffing. If you spot them go stiff, look away, or hear a low grumble, it's time to calmly lead them away and create some space.

• Marking Territory: That constant stopping to pee on every lamp post? It’s not just about emptying their bladder. They're leaving little messages for other dogs, marking their patch and saying, 'I was here!'

The more you learn to read these little cues, the more you'll realise your dog is in a constant conversation with you. It’s not about being a perfect trainer, but about being a good partner to your four-legged friend. It makes your time together richer, safer, and a whole lot more fun. At Who Lets Your Dog Out, making sure every walk is a positive adventure is what we do best. If you want to learn more, you can always find us at www.wholetsyourdogoutuk.com.