By Lindsay Fast

Are those dogs fighting, maybe they’re playing? How do dogs communicate with one another? Two ways: posturing of their bodies and movement and vocalization of a number of distinct sounds. They don’t need an advanced form of verbal communication, dogs have been surviving without for over 150,000 according to some scientists.

Canine vocal expression is conveyed with barking, growling, howling and whining. The subtle difference between some of these noises can’t always be detected by humans, but it’s not meant for us to understand. These noises can be clearly understood by other dogs! Have you ever noticed that one dog on the street starts howling and all the others join in? They are communicating with one another.

Another way that dogs communicate is with facial expressions and body language. Movement of the eyes, ears, mouth, head tail, even eyebrows can convey a good or bad mood to another canine. For example, a dog with his tail up and wagging is in a good mood and can be approached by another dog without worry of a problem. However a dog with his tail straight out is uneasy and possibly aggressive, this posturing should alert you that this dog should not be approached (by either a human or another dog).

I know there are certain things that my dogs are very good at expressing. “I’m hungry” is communicated first thing in the morning when they wake up and paw at the cage. “I have to go outside” is conveyed with a paw on my leg followed by walking in a circle. “I want you to pet me” is expressed with a nudge of my hand so that it falls on top of their head. “I want to be alone” is disclosed by lying alone in the crate with the door open but back to the entrance.

It’s amazing how dogs can use non-verbal communication to express how they feel and get what they want!! No wonder they have survived for over 150,000 years.

Lindsay Fast is the owner of Ruff & Stuff online doggie boutique. She’s been working with dogs since she was in college and has a passion for training as well as informative tips for dogs and dog lovers.