Pet Body Language

A Happy Dog

• Wags its tail vigorously, sometimes wiggling its whole body
• Ears are relaxed and tilted slightly backward
• Playful bow—front paws down, rear end up
• Gentle gaze, mouth slightly open, tongue sticking out

A Stressed Dog

• Tail tucked between the legs
• Yawning unrelated to tiredness
• Licking lips without food nearby
• Averted gaze, ears pressed against the head
• Heavy breathing without physical exertion

Happy cat

• Tail held upright — greeting and joy
• Slow blinking in your direction — a sign of trust
• Purring while being petted — comfort
• Rubbing its head against you — marking you as its own

An anxious cat

• Ears flattened or turned to the sides
• Tail swishing sharply from side to side
• Dilated pupils, arched back
• Hissing or growling — a signal to back off