Then show the whites of their eyes, a.k.a. This is when a dog turns their head slightly.
You might also like: 11 Surprising Reasons Why Dogs Stare At The Wall #7: ‘Whale eye’ So if your dog looks away when you scold them, it’s due to fear. Dogs can’t feel complex emotions like this and shame. Note: Experts say this isn’t a sign of guilt. Or “I don’t like what you’re doing right now.” In short, avoiding eye contact’s their polite way of saying, Say gazing at them for so long or bending over them. If so, you might be invading their space. #6: Avoiding gazeĭoes your Fido look away when you stare at them? #5: Full-body turnĭogs can also do it with their whole body.Īgain, they do this to avoid confrontations. So your furry friend might bark at you if you stare at them for so long. Or if a stranger looms or stares directly at them.īut a long, direct gaze means rude and threatening.
Your Fido may do this when another dog comes to them head-on. Or an action that means they’re uncomfortable. #4: Head turningĪ dog turning their head to the other side’s not being shy. So when your fur baby flicks their tongue…Īnd this lets them maintain a safe distance for interaction. When anxious, dogs can also stick their tongue out. Learn more: 17 Alarming Reasons Why Dogs Smack Their Lips At Night #3: Tongue flicking You might see this signal when your furry friend tries to calm someone.įor example, they can do this in front of you if you raise your voice. And while swiping their tongue in their mouth. Reading tip: 15 Ways To Read Your Dog’s Body Language (How-To) #2: Lip smackingīut this time, you’ll hear sounds as your dog smacks their lips together. Which is named ‘On Talking Terms With Dogs: Calming Signals.’ Trivia: Turid Rugaas, a dog trainer, coined the term ‘calming signals.’ She’s the author of a book on the said topic. As well as if they’re hugged or picked up when not in the mood. So your furry friend may do this around a stranger. Or while waiting excitedly for their meal.īut if there’s no food, your fur baby might be:Įxperts say this is more likely if lip licking comes with other stress signals, like:īased on a study, this is a common calming signal.Īnd dogs often lick their lips when threatened. You may see your dog do this after they eat.