Canine Body Language
Learn to understand your dog's communication
Do you ever wish your dog could tell you exactly what's on her mind? The good news is that she already is, we just have to learn her language. With a bit of education, you'll be able to tell when your dog is happy, wants some space, is afraid, wants you to come closer or move further away, and more!
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We will keep this page up to date with new resources as we find ones that we love, so feel free to check back.
Videos
The Family Dog's Video - What Your Dog is Desperately Trying to Tell You (3 minutes)
This fun video shows the difference between important dog communication styles.
Zoom Room Guide to Body Language (5 minutes)
This video uses still pictures in the beginning to demonstrate body language; it points out specific behaviors to focus your attention.
Understanding Dog Body Language - Learn How to Read Dogs Better
We love these videos because they teach using video clips. The author adeptly slows the video down and narrates the language. Part 1 is about 9 minutes and part 2 is 17 minutes. These are worth the time.
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Understanding Body Language Part 1
Understanding Body Language Part 2
Body Language of Fear and Aggression (16 minutes)
Susan Garrett does a wonderful job explaining the difference between your dog's responses and shares detail about body language you may experience as s/he in the emotional state of fear.
Links & Podcasts
Read 'Canine Body Language' article by Victoria Stillwell to see different signals categorized by type.
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Love this visual guide from iSpeakDog - this a quick and valuable reference.
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Eileen Anderson and her site Eleenanddogs.com has some quality body language resources. Click this link to check out her dog's facial expressions of stress.
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Susan Garrett has a podcast with episodes that last about 15 minutes each. Click here for her podcast on dog body language.
Webinars
ASPCApro has a free webinar series on canine communications and behavior. Click the Canine Communication image to go to the first in the series.
We also love ASPCApro free webinar titled "Human Body Language and Its Effects on Dog Behavior." This webinar helps us communicate to dogs. Click the Agenda to jump to this webinar.
Check back for more
This topic is so important that we are always on the look-out for really great sources. If you find one that you'd like us to include here - send it!
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