Just like humans, dogs have evolved a complex range of facial expressions that allow them to communicate their feelings and intentions.
Recent studies have shed light on just how expressive our canine friends can be. Did you know that dogs have unique facial muscles that allow them to make expressions1 that even their wolf ancestors can’t? Or that they use different expressions when communicating with humans versus other dogs?
The world of dog facial expressions is a fascinating one, and we’re just beginning to scratch the surface.
1. The Classic “Puppy Dog Eyes”
You know the look – your dog gazes up at you with wide, soft eyes and raised eyebrows. This endearing expression is your pup’s way of saying “pretty please with a cherry on top!” Dogs often use this look to ask for something they want, like a treat or a belly rub.
Interestingly, research has shown that dogs are more likely to make this facial expression when humans are looking at them. (ref) So if you find it hard to resist those puppy dog eyes, you’re not alone – that’s exactly what your dog is hoping for!
2. Lip Licking
If you see your dog’s tongue flick out to lick their lips, they may be feeling anxious or uncomfortable. This subtle signal is easy to miss, but it’s an important one to watch for. Your dog may lick their lips when they’re stressed by something in their environment, like a loud noise or an unfamiliar person.
Lip licking can also be an appeasement gesture. Your dog may lick their lips to communicate to another dog or person that they mean no harm and want to avoid conflict.
3. The Submissive Grin
Have you ever seen your dog pull their lips back to reveal their front teeth in what looks like a smile? This expression, called a “submissive grin,” is often misinterpreted as aggression. But don’t worry – it actually means the opposite!
A submissive grin is a friendly, non-threatening signal that your dog uses to show they want to appease you or another dog. It’s often accompanied by a lowered head, wagging tail, and squinty eyes.
4. Whale Eye
“Whale eye” is when your dog turns their head slightly to the side and you can see the whites of their eyes. This is a sign that your dog is feeling anxious or threatened and may be about to snap if pushed further.
If you see your dog giving whale eye, it’s best to give them some space and remove them from the stressful situation if possible. Whale eye is often seen when a dog is guarding a toy or food, or when they’re uncomfortable with being hugged or petted in a certain way.
5. Yawning
Contrary to popular belief, dogs don’t just yawn when they’re tired. Yawning can also be a sign of stress and anxiety in dogs. If your dog yawns in a tense situation, like at the vet’s office or during a loud fireworks display, they’re likely feeling overwhelmed and trying to calm themselves.
Yawning can also be contagious between dogs and humans, so if you yawn, don’t be surprised if your dog yawns back! Some experts believe this is a sign of empathy and social bonding. (ref)
6. Ears Perked Up
When your dog’s ears are perked up and facing forward, they’re alert and engaged in what’s going on around them. This can be a sign of curiosity or excitement, like when they hear you open a bag of treats or say the word “walk.”
Erect ears can also indicate that your dog is feeling confident and ready to take on whatever comes their way. On the other hand, if your dog’s ears are perked up and they’re showing other signs of tension like a stiff body and direct stare, they may be feeling aggressive or threatened.
7. Ears Flattened Back
If your dog’s ears are flattened against their head, they’re likely feeling fearful or submissive. This is a sign that your dog is trying to make themselves look smaller and non-threatening. You may see this happen when your dog meets a new person or animal they’re unsure about.
Ears flattened back can also be a sign of pain or illness, so if you notice your dog’s ears are constantly in this position, it’s worth a trip to the vet to get them checked out.
8. Raised Eyebrows
When your dog raises one or both eyebrows, they’re usually expressing interest or anticipation. This can happen when they see something they want, like a toy or treat, or when they’re trying to figure out what you’re asking them to do.
Raised eyebrows can also be a sign of surprise or confusion, like when you make a strange noise or do something unexpected.
9. Head Tilt
The head tilt is a classic dog expression that’s both adorable and intriguing. When your dog cocks their head to one side, they’re usually trying to hear or see something better. This can happen when you make an unusual sound or when they’re trying to figure out where a noise is coming from.
Some experts believe that the head tilt may also be a sign of empathy or attentiveness, like when you’re talking to your dog and they tilt their head as if to say “I’m listening.” It’s also possible that head tilting may help dogs better read our facial expressions by aligning their line of sight with ours.
10. Nose Wrinkle or Snarl
If your dog wrinkles their nose and bares their teeth, they’re likely feeling threatened or aggressive. This expression is often accompanied by a growl or snap and should be taken seriously as a warning sign.
However, some dogs, especially certain breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs, may naturally have wrinkled noses due to their facial structure. In these cases, it’s important to look at the whole picture of your dog’s body language to determine if they’re actually feeling aggressive or if they just have a serious case of resting wrinkle face.
11. Squinty Eyes
Soft, squinty eyes are a sign of a happy, content dog. When your dog looks at you with a relaxed gaze and slightly closed eyes, they’re showing you affection and trust. This expression is often seen when you’re petting your dog or when they’re basking in the sun.
On the flip side, if your dog is squinting and showing the whites of their eyes (whale eye), they may be feeling anxious or threatened. The key is to look at the whole context of the situation and your dog’s overall body language.
12. Panting
Panting is a normal way for dogs to cool themselves off, but it can also be a sign of stress or excitement. If your dog is panting heavily and showing other signs of anxiety like pacing or trembling, they may be feeling overwhelmed by their environment.
Excitement panting is usually accompanied by a wagging tail and wiggly body. This can happen when your dog greets you after a long day or when they’re about to go for a car ride. As long as your dog isn’t panting excessively or showing signs of distress, this type of panting is nothing to worry about.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.