Signs of Arousal

Reprinted with permission from: Doggone Safe!TM A non-profit organization dedicated to dog bite prevention. Check out their excellent information at doggonesafe.com

These signs indicate that your dog is interested in something, or trying to decide on a course of action and is not receptive to attention (such as petting from a child) and include:

dogarousal

  • ears forward
  • mouth closed
  • eyes intense
  • body rolled forward
  • body tense
  • tail high (may or may not be wagging)
  • slow deliberate tail wag

This is the type of posture we see in a dog who wants to chase a squirrel, confront an intruder or is getting ready to chase a ball. He is intensely focused and ready for action. He does not want to be hugged or petted at this time. Teach children to leave a dog along who is tense and focused like this.

Know the Signs

Signs of Anxiety

Signs of Arousal

Signs of Aggression

Signs of Imminent Bite

Signs of a Happy Dog

Reprinted with permission from: Doggone Safe!TM A non-profit organization dedicated to dog bite prevention. Contact them at [email protected]