Dogs, although they do not speak our language, use a variety of signals to convey their emotions and thoughts, as we have explained in other posts, well… believe it, their way of expressing it can differ depending on the breed .

Animal communication systems are complex and varied, and dog language is no exception. Dogs use a variety of signals, including body postures, facial expressions, barking, and growling, to communicate with us and other dogs.

One of the most important signals in dog body language are calming signals . We will not get tired of explaining what they are, because they are very important... These are small signs that dogs use to indicate that they are calm and relaxed. Some of these cues include lip licking, yawning, and looking away. Dogs may also display calming signals when they feel threatened or uncomfortable, such as when meeting other unfamiliar dogs.

Each breed of dog has its own "general" way of expressing and being, which comes in part genetically . For example, Chilean Terriers are known to be very energetic and expressive, while German Shepherds are more serious and reserved. English and French bulldogs often look intimidating, but they are actually very friendly and affectionate dogs.

Small dog breeds, such as dachshunds and chihuahuas, also have their own way of being and expressing themselves. These dogs tend to have a lot of energy and can be very protective of their owners, considering that in sausages, for example, they have a genetic component more linked to fear. On the other hand, large dog breeds, such as the Argentine Bulldog and the Samoyed, tend to be calmer and gentler if we compare them with small dog breeds, obviously considering that it is a generalization and that each puppy also has its own personality and character based on their personal lived experiences .

Brachycephalic dogs, for example, are dogs with wide, flattened skulls, which can affect their ability to communicate through certain signals . For example, some brachycephalics may have difficulty displaying clear facial expressions due to the shape of their head and face. They may also have difficulty regulating their body temperature and breathing properly, which can affect their mood and behavior.

Additionally, some studies have shown that certain brachycephalic dog breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, may have hearing problems due to the shape of their ears. This can make it more difficult for them to detect and respond to certain communication signals, such as barking from other dogs.

Although each breed of dog has its own language, all dogs use the same basic signals to communicate . Learning to interpret the body language of dogs is essential to be able to communicate effectively with them and understand their needs and emotions.

For example, Dachshunds or Chihuahuas are small dog breeds that can display these signs more subtly than large breed dogs like the Argentinean Dogo. Therefore, it is important to know the specific characteristics of each breed in order to correctly interpret their body language.

In conclusion, dog body language is a fascinating and complex form of animal communication. By paying attention to the signals our dogs are sending us, we can better understand their thoughts and emotions, and improve our relationship with them. If you have any questions about your dog's body language, don't hesitate to contact a canine ethologist like Jose Veterinaria or a canine trainer for help! And remember, the dog language is universal, learn to speak it!

See more information about calming signals and canine language here.