Ever wondered what your dog is trying to tell you when they tilt their head? Or why your cat suddenly bolts across the room with wide eyes? Pets are always communicating, just not with words.
Learning how to read body language helps you understand their emotions, reduce stress, and respond in ways that make them feel safe and loved.
Dog Body Language: What’s That Wag Mean?
🐾 Tail talk:
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Wagging low & slow = cautious or unsure
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Wagging high & fast = excited
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Tucked tail = fear or anxiety
🐾 Ears & eyes:
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Ears forward = alert or focused
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Ears pinned back = nervous or submissive
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Whale eye (seeing the whites) = stressed
🐾 Other cues:
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Play bow (bum up, front paws down) = playful mood
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Lip licking or yawning = feeling uneasy
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Rolling on back = could be playful or submissive (context matters!)
Cat Body Language: The Feline Code
🐾 Tail language:
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Upright with a curve = happy & confident
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Flicking or lashing = irritated or overstimulated
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Puffed tail = frightened or defensive
🐾 Ears & eyes:
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Ears forward = curious or playful
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Ears sideways/back = anxious or angry
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Slow blink = affection and trust
🐾 Body posture:
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Arched back with fur up = scared
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Curled up tight = wanting to be left alone
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Flopping over or showing belly = relaxed but not always an invite to rub!
Reading the Whole Picture
Always take their whole body into account, tail + ears + eyes + posture = the full message. Also consider the situation they’re in, such as visitors, loud noises or unfamiliar animals.
Building a Stronger Bond
When you listen to what your pet is ‘saying’ with their body, you build trust. You’ll be able to spot when they’re stressed, know when they’re relaxed, and respond in ways that make them feel secure.
