Expressive behaviour in dogs - Understanding the language of dogs

What does expressive behaviour mean?

Expressive behaviour includes all signals with which a dog communicates - consciously or unconsciously. This includes body language, facial expressions, vocalisations, posture, movement, tail and ear position, eye contact, licking over the muzzle and much more. It is the language of dogs. And it is incredibly precise - if we humans learn to look properly.

In our work, we - Lui & Paulina - experience every day how many misunderstandings arise between humans and dogs because expressive behaviour is misinterpreted or overlooked. A dog that yawns doesn't want to sleep. A dog that shakes itself is not wet. These signals are often part of an inner conflict or an expression of stress, insecurity or tension release.

Why is expressive behaviour so important?

A dog cannot lie. Its expressive behaviour always shows honestly how it feels - even if we humans sometimes don't understand it. If you learn to read this language, you can recognise early on when stress is building up, when a dog is overwhelmed or feels uncomfortable. And this is exactly what can help to avoid conflicts, prevent aggression and build trust.

For us, expressive behaviour is the basis of all communication with the dog. It is what happens between commands. The look to the side, the tense mouth, the lowered tail - these are all messages that need to be heard.

How do dogs learn to communicate?

Some expressive behaviour is genetically anchored, but much is learned socially - especially during puppyhood. Those who experience many positive social contacts during this phase develop a finer repertoire of signals. Dogs that are isolated too early or are constantly overwhelmed, on the other hand, often lose their ability to communicate finely. They bark more quickly, show fewer de-escalation signals or react with over-jumping behaviour.

We humans also influence expressive behaviour. If we punish threatening behaviour (such as growling), we deprive the dog of an important means of communication. This is dangerous - because what remains is often only the bite.

Our approach at Vitomalia

We help our customers to understand the language of their dogs. In individual training sessions, workshops and online courses, we analyse body language and expressive behaviour together - with video recordings, slow motion and real everyday situations. Because if you can read your dog, you can lead him better.

Typical signals that are often overlooked:

• Tonguing or licking over the muzzle - signs of stress or insecurity

• Yawning - not tiredness, but tension relief

• Shaking - reorientation after a conflict

• Turn your head away - de-escalation

• Tension in the face - first warning signs of reactivity

Our conclusion

A dog is always talking - we just have to learn to listen. Expressive behaviour is not a side issue, but the key to a real relationship. Those who understand their dog's language need less punishment, less control - and have more connection.

Because dogs speak with their whole body. And if you speak their language, you can meet them at eye level.