Dogs don’t speak our language, but they’re constantly communicating. From subtle shifts in body posture to vocal sounds and eye contact, your dog is telling you how they feel, you just need to know what to look for.

In this article, we’ll explore 8 subtle signs your dog is trying to tell you something, helping you become more in tune with their emotions, needs, and wellbeing.

1. The Side-Eye (Also Known as Whale Eye)

When your dog turns their head but keeps their eyes fixed on you, showing the whites of their eyes, they’re likely feeling anxious, uncomfortable, or cornered.

What it means: Your dog may feel threatened or uneasy about something (a child hugging too tightly, a new visitor, or even another pet).

What to do: Give them space, assess the environment, and avoid pushing further interaction until they’re relaxed.

2. Yawning When They’re Not Tired

Dogs yawn to calm themselves down. It’s a stress signal, not always a sign they’re sleepy. You might notice yawning at the vet, during training, or in a noisy environment.

What it means: Your dog is trying to soothe themselves or diffuse tension.

What to do: If you spot repeated yawns, consider whether they need a break, reassurance, or a quieter space.

3. Tail Wagging, It’s Not Always a Sign of Happiness

Many people assume that a wagging tail always means a happy dog, but the way a dog wags their tail tells a much deeper story.

What it means:
- A loose, mid-height wag often signals friendliness and comfort.
- A high, stiff wag (especially fast and tight) can be a sign of alertness, tension, or even aggression.
- A low or tucked wag suggests nervousness or submission.
- A slow wag may indicate uncertainty or cautiousness.

What to do: Always look at the whole body, including posture, ears, and eyes, to interpret tail wagging correctly. Don’t assume every wag means happy and cheery.

4. Turning Their Head Away or Avoiding Eye Contact

When your dog looks away from you or another dog, it’s not rudeness, it’s a calming signal. Dogs use this body language to avoid confrontation or de-escalate tension.

What it means: They may be politely saying “I’m not a threat” or “I need space”.

What to do: Respect their need for distance and avoid forcing interaction.

5. Shifting Their Weight or Lifting a Paw

A lifted front paw can indicate uncertainty or anticipation. Combined with shifting weight back or moving away, it’s often a sign your dog is unsure or uncomfortable.

What it means: They’re not confident in what’s happening, and might need reassurance.

What to do: Pause what you’re doing, observe their environment, and offer support without pressure.

6. Sudden Scratching or Shaking Off

If your dog starts scratching themselves or does a full body shake in a non-itchy moment, they may be releasing stress or confusion.

What it means: They’re trying to reset emotionally, almost like a “shake it off” moment.

What to do: Give them a moment to recover, and don’t rush the next step in whatever activity you’re doing.

7. Excessive Panting (Even When It’s Not Hot)

Panting isn’t always about heat. Dogs also pant when anxious, overstimulated, or in pain. It’s a natural way for them to calm their nervous system.

What it means: Something may be stressing your dog out, or they might not be feeling well.

What to do: Monitor the situation. If there’s no clear cause (like exercise or heat), consult your vet.

8. Lip Licking or Nose Flicking

A quick tongue flick across the nose or lips, especially when there's no food involved, is often a sign of nervousness.

What it means: Your dog may be uncertain about a situation or picking up on your stress.

What to do: Slow things down, use a calm tone, and give your dog a chance to settle.

Final thoughts

The more you pay attention to your dog’s body language and subtle signals, the better you’ll understand their world, and the stronger your bond will become. These small cues can help you identify stress, avoid conflict, and make sure your dog feels safe, understood, and loved. Because a well read dog is a well loved dog.