Dog Fact

Talking To Your Dog

It is undeniably true that dogs communicate with other dogs as well as their human counterparts. Sociable canines communicate in a variety of ways. They use their voice to express sounds, ranging from sounds of excitement, to warnings and even sounds of pleasure.

Dogs leave scent markings in urine and feces. Science tells us this is to tell other dogs whether it is male or female. There are probably also other purposes for this beyond human comprehension. Dogs sometimes scratch the ground in the area of these body-waste scent markers. The scratching adds a visual sign that points to the communication site.

The canine has a cornucopia of body scents

Body odors are produced in saliva, ear secretions, anal sacs, vaginal and preputial discharges, as well as from the glands around the anus and on top of the tail. Each of these body odors transmits information about the dog.

Dogs also use body language to communicate. They will alter the positions of the ears and tail. Dogs certainly have the ability to express their feelings and emotions in vivid detail ... we just need to learn to recognize what they are saying to us.

Body Language

Body language is perhaps the dog’s most widely understood form of communication. Dogs display their emotions, thoughts and demands through body language. Eye contact plays an important role in the communication process. Dominant canines have a tendency to stare and submissive dogs tend to avoid direct eye contact. Dominant dogs stand erect while submissive canines grovel.

When a dog is calm his tail and ears are relaxed but if the dog is alert both the tail and ears are raised. When a dog is feeling aggressive the tail is lifted very high and he will pull back his lips to display his teeth. The aggressive dog will go as far to lean forward and snarl. A frightened dog will flatten his ears back and drop his tail as well as his body posture. A mother canine quickly learns to distinguish the vocal differences of each of her puppies. She understands their sounds of hunger, pain and pleasure.

There are five basic vocal expressions of dogs:

• 1) infant cries, whimpers, and whines
• 2) warning growls and sharp barks
• 3) attention-seeking barks and howls
• 4) painful yips, yelps and screams
• 5) pleasurable moans


By understanding the way your dog communicates you will be able to provide more of what he needs. You will recognize what he is feeling and what message he is trying to convey. Simply being aware of his subtle and elegant body language will evoke an appreciation for his intelligence. The bond between you will grow as your understanding and acceptance of the canine communication patterns grows.





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