Learning to 'speak'...or communicate with your dog is very important. It's not only necessary when dealing with your own dog. It also helps you when you come across a strange dog...you need to know what that dog is 'saying'.

Dog's talk to us in a variety of different ways. Growl, bark, and whine. But they mostly communicate with us using body language. Growls, barking and whining can all mean different things...it's when you add to it the body language that you can understand what the dog is trying to tell you.

We must remember that for centuries dogs have been 'pack' animals. They have always been in a pack and have followed a certain 'social' order. It is in the body language that dogs have always communicated.

The body:

Without making a sound...your dog can speak volumes to you through his body language. However, these signals must be used in conjunction with their verbal sounds to fully understand what they are trying to tell you. For example; a dog that is submissive will hold it's tail between it's legs. Certain breeds such as the greyhound or whippet hold their tail like this normally. You need to know how to read the other signs to interrupt what they are saying.

Most people interpret a wagging tail as a sign of friendliness. Usually a tail held above and away from the body or curled over the back signifies dominance. Mix with this bristling of the hair and it could be a sign of aggression. A relaxed dog will usually hold his tail lower and away from his body. A frightened or submissive dog will usually hold his tail between his legs.

A dominate dog walks on his toes, leaning forward with a stiff gait. Head held high, ears and tail up. He will meet your gaze and hold it. By returning the stare, you could be signaling a challenge, even though not meant. A dominate dog will place his muzzle or paws across the shoulders or back of a submissive dog. If you have a very dominate dog and place your hands in that spot, he may bite or snap thinking you are trying to challenge his dominance.

The tail up, front legs on the ground with an alert look may signal a playful dog. If the dog barks, it would be an excited bark....not threatening. If your dog is interested, he may also have that 'alert' look. Mouth partially open and head cocked to one side. A dog that is afraid will tuck in his tail and flatten his ears. He may raise his hackles and show his teeth. It is best when confronted with mixed signals like this to err on the side of caution. A dog may bite from fear and not dominance.

A submissive dog will crouch down, eyes averted, ears back and tail low or between his legs. A very submissive dog will roll over and expose his belly...or possibly urinate. Most people get upset with their dog for urinating upon greeting or scolding...but it is really a sign of extreme submission.

Getting vocal:

Your dog's bark can convey alot...especially when combined with the body language. Barking can be with the excitement of going for a walk...welcoming you home or warning an intruder. A gentle bark with a nudging of the nose or paw may be a suggestion or question. A yelp shows fear or pain, while a whimper could be seeking attention. A growl can express dominance or aggression.

Remember: dogs are pack animals. They have been for thousands of years. You are just another member of the pack to them. They only understand the social order of the pack as they were instructed by their mother. As a puppy....show your dominance over your dog. Not by aggression, yelling and screaming or hitting. Do it like they do....place your hand over the back of their neck and gently push them to the ground. Hold it there a few minutes then release the dog when you see the signs of submission....relaxed body, averted eyes, tail low. This will communicate to your dog that you are the 'pack leader' and aiding in training and control over your dog as he gets older. Never do this with any sign of aggression or your dog may take it wrong and feel challenged.

Fluffy may be the kindest, most gentle 'baby' known to man....but never forget that they are animals. They can't reason or think things through. They don't understand your sentences...they understand your body language.

A few things you should never, never do:

If confronted by an aggressive dog...never turn and run. Dogs are by nature hunters...and hunters love the chase! Do not meet his gaze and stare at him...lower your eyes and slowly back away until you can get out of the situation. Let your body language tell him he is the leader until you can safely get away or get control of the situation.

Never corner a dog. Even your own! If your dog is backed into a corner and feels threatened and there's no way out...he will take this as a sign of aggression and possibly turn on you. (Mostly out of fear)

By mixing body language and your dog's verbal sounds...you will soon be able to understand and 'communicate' better with your dog..Spend time with your dog and get to know what he's 'saying'.

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