Understanding the Social Signals of Dogs and Wolves
Dogs and wolves share a close genetic relationship. In the wild, wolf packs hunt together as a group, and if a situation arises that requires caution, wolves will emit what is known as an "interrupt signal." This signal informs other wolves to pause their attack behaviors in order to maintain safety.
Dogs also possess social skills that help them avoid conflicts. However, unlike wolves whose "interrupt signal" stops an ongoing aggressive action, dogs are more adept at preventing conflicts from occurring in the first place. Dog behavior experts refer to these conflict-prevention behaviors as "calming signals."
The Peaceful Nature of Dogs
Dogs are naturally very peace-loving animals. To avoid conflicts with other animals, they often emit what are called "calming signals" to communicate and ask the other party to pause any aggressive behavior.
These calming signals are an important part of dog communication. They help maintain harmony and reduce tension in potentially confrontational situations. By sending these subtle messages, dogs demonstrate their preference for peaceful interactions over fights, promoting better coexistence with other animals and humans alike.
The calming signals of dogs commonly exhibit six major behavioral expressions.
1. Why Dogs Might Look Away
When dogs encounter lively new friends or experience affectionate interactions from their owners, they might momentarily turn their heads away before looking back again. This simple gesture is a gentle way for them to signal that they need a brief pause.
If your dog does this, it's their way of asking you to ease up a bit on the enthusiasm. It helps them stay comfortable and prevents them from feeling overwhelmed by too much excitement.
Understanding these subtle signals can deepen the bond between you and your furry friend and ensure that every interaction remains a positive experience.
2. The Full Turn: An Advanced Canine Signal
The full turn is an advanced behavior often seen in dogs. When a dog feels a strong sense of threat—such as when their owner is angry—he will choose to turn away completely. This action allows the dog to avoid the intense energy directed at him, giving you both a moment to calm down.
By turning his back, the dog signals his desire to de-escalate the situation and remove himself from the conflict. Recognizing this gesture can help owners better understand their dog's emotional state and respond with patience and care.
3. Understanding Gentle Squinting in Dogs and Cats
Gentle squinting is a warm, friendly gesture shared by both dogs and cats. When these animals partially close their eyes in a relaxed manner, it signifies goodwill and affection.
For dogs that enjoy close, intimate interactions, this squinting often serves as a way to express friendliness. By narrowing their eyes, they communicate trust and a desire for positive connection.
Similarly, cats use this subtle eye movement to show kindness and calmness, reinforcing the bond they share with their human companions or other pets.
4. Understanding Your Dog's Subtle Signals: Nose Licking and Yawning
Nose licking and yawning are signals that pet owners often overlook. These behaviors can reveal a lot about how your dog is feeling.
As mentioned earlier, dogs use certain actions to avoid conflict. When they can't make big movements to turn away—such as when you hold them too tightly or during stressful situations like a vet visit—they often resort to licking their nose or yawning as a way to calm themselves.
Recognizing these subtle signs can help owners better understand their dog's emotional state and respond with greater sensitivity.
5. Understanding the "Lying Still" Signal in Dogs
"Lying still" is a signal commonly used by dogs with a higher social status. When an adult dog notices that a puppy is hesitant to approach or that the younger dogs around him are too noisy, he will lie down without moving. This gesture serves as a way to indicate to everyone that they should calm down and settle.
This behavior is an important form of communication within dog social groups, helping maintain peace and order among the pack. By lying still, the dominant dog asserts control in a non-aggressive manner, encouraging quieter and more respectful behavior from the younger or less confident dogs.
6. Physical Intervention: Clear Signs of Mediation
Physical intervention is the most obvious form of mediation behavior. When a dog notices that others are in conflict, it will use its own body to step in. The dog tries to separate the parties involved and encourage them to calm down, helping to prevent the situation from escalating further.
Understanding Your Dog's Calming Signals
"Calming signals" are an important part of how dogs communicate. When your dog sends these signals, it's their way of trying to diffuse tension or express discomfort. If these signals are ignored, it may lead to your dog becoming more resistant or reluctant to interact with you in the future.
For example, if you notice your furry friend turning their head away, it might be their gentle way of telling you that something feels overwhelming or too intense. It's important to pay attention and reflect if maybe you were too harsh or demanding.
Love begins with understanding. By recognizing and respecting your dog's calming signals, you build a stronger, more trusting relationship based on empathy and care.
