Ever noticed your dog yawning when you’re not even close to bedtime? Or suddenly sniffing the ground like there’s buried treasure mid-walkies? Turns out, it’s not random—it’s dog speak.
Welcome to the world of calming signals: the secret body language dogs use every single day to communicate, soothe themselves, and keep the peace. It’s subtle, smart, and surprisingly emotional.
Let’s decode what your dog’s really saying—and how learning this one thing can completely transform your bond.
What Are Calming Signals (and Why Should You Care)?
Calming signals are your dog’s way of saying:
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“I’m feeling unsure.”
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“Let’s keep this chill.”
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“I’m not a threat, promise.”
They’re the early whispers before a dog feels the need to bark, lunge, or freeze up completely. Miss them, and you might accidentally push your dog into stress or reactivity. But spot them, and you’ll become the kind of dog parent your dog feels safe around—calm, respectful, and in tune.
This whole idea was first championed by Norwegian dog trainer Turid Rugaas, and it's now essential reading for dog behaviourists everywhere.
Top 10 Calming Signals and What They Really Mean
1. Lip Licking (when there’s no treat in sight)
A quick flick of the tongue—blink and you’ll miss it. Often a sign of mild discomfort or trying to appease. You’ll see it at the vet, around strangers, or when reaching for their collar.
2. Yawning (no, not just tired)
Dogs yawn to self-soothe and de-escalate tension. If your dog yawns when being hugged or posed for a photo, he’s politely saying, “This is a bit much, thanks.”
3. Looking Away / Head Turn
In dog world, direct stares are rude. A turned head is your dog’s version of “no beef here, mate.” You’ll notice it if you lean in too close or during tense moments.
4. Sniffing the Ground (at odd moments)
Not just nosey—sniffing activates the nervous system’s chill mode. It’s how dogs ground themselves and avoid escalating social tension.
5. Moving Slowly
Slow, deliberate movement is dog diplomacy at work. Quick motions can startle or threaten; slow ones say, “I come in peace.”
6. Curved Approaches
Dogs naturally curve towards each other when greeting off-lead. Head-on approaches (especially on-lead) feel tense and unnatural. Watch the body language closely here.
7. Shaking Off
A quick shake isn’t just about drying off—it’s a post-stress reset. After a vet visit or awkward encounter, it’s their way of saying “phew, that’s over.”
8. Freezing
This is your dog’s way of saying, “I need a second.” It’s serious—pushing them now can lead to escalation. If your dog freezes, stop, reassess, and give them space.
9. Blinking or Soft Eyes
A soft gaze and slow blink is a total love note. If you blink slowly at your dog and they return it? That’s trust, baby.
10. Lifting a Front Paw
A classic sign of uncertainty. Often seen when something new pops up (like a suspicious bin bag or unfamiliar doorstep). Let them explore at their pace.
Why This Matters for You and Your Dog
Understanding calming signals is the ultimate love language for dog mums like you. It means:
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No more guessing what your dog’s feeling
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Fewer meltdowns, more connection
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A relationship built on mutual respect (not dominance myths)
Most importantly, it lets your dog feel seen, heard, and safe—and that’s when the magic really happens.
What You Can Start Doing Today
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Watch your dog more closely—in the house, on walks, during greetings. You’ll see these signals everywhere.
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Mirror them: Yawn, look away, move slowly—it helps dogs trust you even more.
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Pause when they pause: Freezing or looking away means “I need a minute.” Respect it.
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Give them choice: Let them decide when to say hi or when to sniff. They’re not robots.
Want to Go Full Behaviour Nerd?
Here are a couple of book suggestions if you fancy digging deeper:
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On Talking Terms with Dogs – Turid Rugaas
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Canine Body Language – Brenda Aloff
In a Nutshell…
Your dog is already speaking. You just need to learn the language. Once you do? Every walk, cuddle, and interaction gets better. It’s not magic—it’s communication. And your scruffy little soulmate deserves nothing less.
Now go give your dog a slow blink and a biscuit. They’ve been trying to tell you something all along.