Understanding your pet’s body language can deepen your bond and help you respond to their needs effectively. Here are the signs to watch for.
1. Looking Away – Dog
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When a dog turns its head away or avoids eye contact, it’s often a sign that they want to be left alone. Respect their space to avoid escalating the situation.
2. Tail Twitching – Cat
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A cat’s tail twitching rapidly can indicate irritation or agitation. It’s best to give them some space when you see this.
3. Ears Back – Dog
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If a dog’s ears are pinned back, it might be scared or anxious. Approach them slowly and offer comfort.
4. Purring – Cat
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While purring usually signifies contentment, it can sometimes indicate discomfort or pain. Pay attention to the context and other body language signs.
5. Wagging Tail – Dog
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A wagging tail generally means a dog is happy, but a very fast wag can also indicate excitement or agitation. Consider the overall body language to interpret it correctly.
6. Slow Blinking – Cat
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Slow blinking at you is a sign of affection from your cat. You can reciprocate to build trust and show them you care.
7. Play Bow – Dog
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When a dog lowers its front legs and keeps its rear up, it’s an invitation to play. This is a clear sign of a happy and playful mood.
8. Arched Back – Cat
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An arched back can indicate a cat is feeling threatened and is trying to make itself look bigger. Give them space to calm down.
9. Raised Hackles – Dog
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Raised hackles (the hair along a dog’s back) can indicate excitement, fear, or aggression. Assess the situation to determine the cause.
10. Kneading – Cat
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When cats knead with their paws, it usually means they are content and happy. It’s a leftover behaviour from kittenhood when they kneaded their mother’s belly for milk.
11. Submissive Grin – Dog
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Some dogs display a submissive grin, pulling their lips back to show their teeth. This is usually a friendly gesture, despite its appearance.
12. Whiskers Forward – Cat
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When a cat’s whiskers are pushed forward, they are alert and interested in something. This often happens when they are hunting or playing.
13. Lip Licking – Dog
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Lip licking can indicate stress or anxiety in dogs. It’s often seen in situations where they feel uncomfortable or nervous.
14. Hissing – Cat
![](https://pawshore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/shutterstock_2428975373.jpg)
Hissing is a clear sign that a cat feels threatened or annoyed. It’s a warning to back off and give them space.
15. Tail Between Legs – Dog
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A tail tucked between the legs is a sign of fear or submission. Comfort your dog and remove them from the stressful situation if possible.
16. Bunting – Cat
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When a cat head-butts you, it’s called bunting. This is a sign of affection and marking you with their scent.
17. Belly Up – Dog
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When a dog exposes its belly, it’s showing trust and submission. This is a great time for a gentle belly rub, if they invite it.
18. Sideways Hop – Cat
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A sideways hop with an arched back is often seen in kittens. It’s a playful gesture, showing they’re feeling frisky and happy.
19. Low Growl – Dog
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A low growl is a warning sign from a dog. It’s best to stop what you’re doing and give them space to prevent escalation.
20. Dilated Pupils – Cat
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Dilated pupils can indicate excitement or fear in cats. Watch their other body language cues to determine the exact emotion.
Read the Room
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By understanding these signals, you can better communicate with your pets and ensure they feel safe and loved. Whether it’s a playful dog bow or a contented cat knead, recognising these behaviours is key to a happy pet-owner relationship.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / SeventyFour.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.