Dog Body Language: What Your Dog Is Actually Saying

A wagging tail signals arousal, not necessarily friendliness. Look at the whole body: loose and wiggly is friendly; stiff with a high tail is a warning.

Yawning, lip-licking, and turning the head away are stress signals — dogs use them to defuse tension before they growl.

Respecting these early cues prevents most bites and makes vet visits, grooming, and social outings dramatically easier.