Dogs are experts at communicating without words
But humans often interpret their gestures from an overly emotional or “humanized” perspective. One of the most common examples is when a dog licks its owner: many interpret this gesture as a sign of affection. However, according to Alba Fernández, a dog trainer specializing in behavior, this behavior often has a very different meaning.
According to the dog trainer one of the most misinterpreted gestures by humans is licking. Although dogs sometimes lick as a sign of affection, many other times they do so as a form of emotional communication, revealing discomfort, nervousness, or a need to calm a stressful situation.
“The most common misinterpretation is licking, both the kind they do to themselves and the kind they do to us,” she says. “Normally, we humanize and romanticize this behavior, believing it means they love us very much. But many times they’re saying just the opposite: that they’re uncomfortable.”
To illustrate this idea, Alba gives a very graphic example: “For example, when there are small children, many people think the dog licks them because it loves them very much or because it cares for them. And that doesn’t mean that this is never the case, but often the dog is saying, ‘This is causing me tension.’”
A simple way to check this, according to the expert, is to place your hand in front of the dog and observe its reaction. “If it licks your hand, it’s most likely saying, ‘That hand worries me, I don’t know where you’re going to put it.’” This small action, which many interpret as an affectionate gesture, could actually be a clear sign of uncertainty or discomfort on the part of the animal.
Other gestures dogs use to communicate
In addition to licking, dogs use many other gestures and behaviors to express how they feel. For example, yawning in tense situations doesn’t necessarily mean they’re sleepy; rather, they’re stressed, uncomfortable, or trying to calm the situation. This is what is known as an appeasement signal, frequently used when the dog perceives that there is a potentially conflictive situation.
Similarly, repeatedly licking their nose or turning their head away when someone approaches can be a way of avoiding direct contact or indicating that they are uncomfortable with the interaction. These small gestures often go unnoticed, but they are an essential part of canine body language.
Another common sign is crouching with their ears back: although many interpret this as playfulness or submission, in some contexts it can indicate fear, insecurity, or a need for space. Even actions such as sudden scratching, shaking their body even when it hasn’t been wet, or repetitive movements can also be indicators of discomfort or pent-up frustration.
The dog trainer insists that observing these small signs is essential to avoid misunderstandings and build a healthier and more respectful relationship with our pets. “Many behavioral problems stem from a lack of respect for what the dog is trying to communicate. If we learn to read their body language, we can offer them a safer, more balanced coexistence that is adapted to their emotional needs.”