Dog Training Dog Body Language Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client describes their dog showing "whale eye" (sclera showing), with a closed, tense mouth and stiff body posture whenever a visitor tries to pet him. What is this dog most likely communicating?

Accepted Answer

Anxiety and discomfort, signaling a need for space.

Answer

Playful excitement and anticipation of being pet.

Answer

A relaxed state, simply observing the visitor.

Answer

Deep sleepiness and being startled awake.

Question 2

Which of the following is most accurately described as a "calming signal" or an appeasement gesture in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Lip licking when no food is present.

Answer

A direct, hard stare at another dog.

Answer

A stiff, high, rapidly wagging tail.

Answer

Baring the front teeth with a wrinkled muzzle and a forward posture.

Question 3

During a play session, one dog suddenly freezes over a toy, its body becomes stiff, and its hackles (piloerection) are raised as another dog approaches. This sudden change is most likely an indicator of what?

Accepted Answer

An escalation from play to resource guarding.

Answer

A desire to initiate a game of chase.

Answer

Extreme fatigue and needing a break from play.

Answer

A standard play bow invitation.

Question 4

A dog exhibiting a "submissive grin" is often mistaken for showing aggression. Which feature is most characteristic of a submissive grin, differentiating it from an aggressive snarl?

Accepted Answer

A relaxed, 'soft' body posture and averted gaze.

Answer

A low growl accompanying the expression.

Answer

A tense, forward-leaning body posture.

Answer

Lips pulled vertically to expose the canine teeth.

Question 5

The term "piloerection" in canines refers to:

Accepted Answer

The involuntary raising of hair along the dog's back.

Answer

The act of a dog rolling over to expose its belly.

Answer

A rapid, shallow panting due to stress or heat.

Answer

A slow, methodical tail wag indicating uncertainty.

Question 6

A trainer observes a dog with its ears oriented forward, mouth slightly open and relaxed, body weight centered, and tail held in a neutral position with a gentle wag. This combination of signals most strongly suggests the dog is:

Accepted Answer

Alert and interested in its environment.

Answer

Fearful and preparing to flee.

Answer

Asserting dominance over another dog.

Answer

Stressed and exhibiting appeasement signals.