Some of us have dogs as pets, or for security; but for the rest of us, they just cause our hairs to stand on end. That’s expected, since we have heard stories of how dogs mauled people, and left lasting marks on them! How then did dogs come about the term “Man’s Best Friend” if they have been known to hurt people? Could it be that their human friends just couldn’t read the signs?
Well, the key is understanding the dog – it’s feelings, and body language – before you approach it, or even venture to pet it. Below are some tips to consider.
1. A Wagging Tail Doesn’t Always Mean Friendliness
Are you surprised to hear this? It is true that dogs use their tails to communicate their feelings, but it is important to know at what angle or position, the speed of wagging, and what these mean.
- If the tail is wagging, but is way above its back; that’s a really good sign that the dog is protecting someone or something, and you should stay back.
- If the tail is wagging, but is really low or tucked under its body between its legs. This is a sign that the dog is hiding, or is afraid of something. It is wise not to approach, nor pet the dog at this instance, as it may charge and attack.
2. Look At The Mouth
A dog that is safe to approach will generally have its mouth open, while a closed mouth means that a dog is beginning to get uncomfortable. But there is a big difference between having its mouth opened, and it snarling at you (like the dog in the picture). You can see that it’s baring its teeth – this one is obviously very uncomfortable! Stay away!!
3. And Their Bodies Too
Watch intently to see if the muscles of its body are curved, relaxed, and loose. This is another sign that it is safe to approach. But when the body muscles are tight and stiff, the dog is uncomfortable, and it isn’t safe.
4. Use The 3A’s
You shouldn’t approach a dog that is not familiar to you without applying these rules:
- Ask the Owner: You should ask the owner first if it is alright to approach the dog.
- Ask the Dog: Does this seem preposterous to you? After all a dog can’t speak! But you do this by checking its body posture – What is the position of its tail? What is the speed of its wagging? Is its mouth open? Are its muscles relaxed.
- Approach The Dog: If the owner and the dog say yes, you may then approach the dog, and even pet it if you are feeling brave enough!
These are your cues to a proper and safe human – dog relationship. At least you now know that a wagging tail does not always mean friendliness, that it could also spell disaster.
