Dogs rely heavily on body language and vocal cues to communicate with both humans and other dogs. This comprehensive review, published in the International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science, explores the physiological, environmental, and social influences shaping canine behavior—from yawning and blinking to tail wagging and growling.
Prottoy Bhadury and Arundita Bhattacharjee emphasize that understanding these subtle signals can help veterinarians, trainers, and owners interpret a dog’s emotional and physiological state. The authors highlight how stress, social context, and breed traits influence responses, noting that even small gestures—like ear position, pawing, or the rhythm of a tail wag—carry significant communicative meaning.
The review links specific physical indicators to emotional states: relaxed wagging or soft blinking suggests affection, while rigid posture or tucked tail indicates anxiety or stress. The analysis integrates findings from ethology, physiology, and behavioral psychology, underscoring that canine communication is both evolutionarily adaptive and socially learned.
By synthesizing modern research, the authors propose that enhancing our ability to read and respond to these cues can improve welfare and deepen human–dog relationships. Better awareness of how dogs express tension or comfort can lead to more compassionate training, handling, and veterinary practices.
Source: Bhadury, P., & Bhattacharjee, A. (2024). Unraveling Canine Behavior: Insights into Communication, Stress Signals, and Social Interactions. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science.
