In honor of National Dog Bite Prevention Week, the American Kennel Club suggests you use these clues to determine if a dog is relaxed or threatening.
Relaxed dogs
The tail is up over the back, down but not pulled under the body, or wagging back and forth.
Mouth and lips are relaxed.
Ears will be in the natural position – neither back nor forward.
Hair will be smooth along the dog’s back.
Threatening dogs
The nose may be wrinkled and drawn back to reveal teeth.
The dog’s body may appear tense.
Ears most likely will be raised or pinned back.
The dog may start to growl.
Hair along the back of the dog’s neck may be raised.
Read and heed!
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!