Canine Communication
Dogs are renowned for their remarkable canine communication as they have the ability to communicate, both with humans and with their fellow furry companions. When dogs meet each other, whether on a neighbourhood stroll or at a dog park, their interactions often involve a series of subtle gestures and signals that convey important information.
One of the ways in which dogs communicate their friendly intentions to one another is through a process known as “checking in.” In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of canine communication, exploring how dogs use checking in to establish rapport and indicate their friendly demeanour when meeting another dog.
Understanding Checking-In Behaviour
When two dogs meet, they don’t just dive headfirst into interaction; rather, they engage in a gentle and gradual process of evaluating the situation and each other’s intentions.
Checking in is a key component of this process. This behaviour involves dogs pausing briefly during their approach or interaction to establish eye contact with the other dog. This quick glance serves multiple purposes in the canine world.
- Assessment of Intentions: Dogs use the moment of eye contact to assess the other dog’s body language, facial expressions, and overall demeanour. This visual exchange allows them to gauge whether the other dog is approachable and friendly or possibly tense and apprehensive.
- Sharing Information: Just like humans engage in small talk to break the ice, dogs use checking in to exchange information. This could involve conveying non-threatening intentions and a desire for a calm interaction. Friendly dogs often use a soft, relaxed gaze that indicates their non-aggressive disposition.
- Establishing Trust: The act of checking in helps dogs establish a foundation of trust before engaging in further interaction. By acknowledging each other through eye contact, dogs signal their willingness to engage in a civil and potentially positive exchange.
- Avoiding Conflict: Checking in also serves as a preventive measure against potential conflicts. Dogs are highly attuned to each other’s signals, and brief eye contact can help avoid misunderstandings that could lead to aggression.
Interpreting Canine Body Language
A dog’s body language provides critical context to the checking-in behaviour. Here are some cues to watch for:
- Relaxed Posture: A friendly dog will have a loose, relaxed body posture, often with a wagging tail. This indicates a lack of tension and a positive approach.
- Play Bow: A classic play bow, where a dog lowers its front end while keeping its hindquarters up, is a clear invitation to play and engage in friendly interaction. Though a play bow can also have dual meanings, if a dog gives a play bow and the other dog walks away or doesn’t interact, the dog who gave the play bow could be offering communication that it was nervous.
- Submissive Signals: Some dogs might avert their gaze or lower their head slightly during the checking-in process, indicating submission and a desire to avoid conflict.
- Stiffness and Staring: Conversely, a dog that stares intensely, freezes, or displays a rigid posture might be signalling tension or potential aggression. This is the opposite of friendly checking-in behaviour.
Conclusion
The world of canine communication is a complex and captivating realm, where every interaction is a dance of signals and gestures. The checking-in behaviour, a seemingly simple action of making eye contact, carries a multitude of messages between dogs.
By understanding the nuances of this behaviour and interpreting the accompanying body language, we can enhance our own ability to facilitate positive interactions between dogs and support their social well-being.
So, the next time you observe two dogs meeting and briefly locking eyes, remember that you’re witnessing a subtle conversation that speaks volumes in the language of tail wags and friendly intentions.