15 Body Language Cues From Your German Shepherd

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Ever wondered what your German Shepherd is trying to tell you with that adorable head tilt or the playful bounce? Our pets have a language that is entirely their own, and once you crack the code, you’ll understand their world much better. So, let’s take a look at these 15 insights that will help you decode your pup’s every move.

Eyes

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German Shepherds have beautiful, almond-shaped eyes that are incredibly expressive. When their eyes look soft, they’re relaxed and happy. However, when they look tense, hard, and slightly closed, they’re warning not to come any closer. Watch out if the whites of their eyes are showing, known as “whale eyes,” as they may be stressed, worried, or threatened and could bite.

Facial Expressions

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Scrutinizing their facial expressions can provide a lot of information. A soft face usually means they’re calm. Staring ahead tensely with a firmly closed mouth can imply they’re on guard or alert. Also, one gesture can have more than one meaning. For example, when they yawn, it can mean they’re sleeping, but it can also mean they’re anxious.

Ears

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This breed has large, erect ears that are moderately pointed. Having opened their ears to the front, they stand at attention, waiting to hear what the world has to say. As well as a means to hear well, their ears also allow them to convey their feelings. For example, they may be fearful or anxious if their ears are folded back with the tips facing their tail.

Tail

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When your pup’s tail wags side-to-side, it typically denotes happiness and excitement. The position of the tail matters a lot. A slow, stiff wag may signal anger, concern, or fear, while a tail held straight and rigid can mean the dog is feeling alert and on guard. If the tail is raised high and flicking rapidly, it could indicate dominance or aggression. On the other hand, a low tail tucked between their legs suggests submission, fear, or even illness.

Posture

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When dogs are relaxed, they walk around with their heads slightly elevated above their shoulders, exhibiting a calm demeanor. However, if they become excited or alert, their heads will rise even higher. A tense body posture reveals they are on guard, whereas leaning forward can suggest aggression or hostility. If your dog bows down with its front legs stretched out, it’s a playful invitation.

Hackles

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A dog’s hackles are the tufts of hair on its neck and back. Your dog will raise its hackles when it’s aggressive but just as often raises them when it’s excited or curious. If the hackles are up, it can mean that the dog feels dominant or alert. To interpret raised hackles accurately, it is essential to consider the dog’s overall body language and the context of the situation.

Panting

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Panting is a common sign of a happy dog. When they pant, they’re relaxed and happy. If a wagging tail accompanies it, it can mean they are excited. However, panting can also indicate that your dog is feeling anxious or stressed. If your German Shepherd is panting excessively without a clear reason, it may be a sign that they need reassurance or a calming presence.

Body Tension

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Exhibiting a stiff or rigid body posture often shows discomfort, anxiety, or aggression. This tension can manifest in various ways, such as a tightly held tail, raised hackles, and wide eyes, all suggesting that the dog is on high alert. Conversely, a relaxed body posture, where the dog has its weight evenly distributed on all four paws and its tail hangs loosely, suggests that the dog is comfortable and at ease.

Licking

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This action can signify affection and bonding, as dogs often lick their owners as a way to show love and seek attention. However, licking can also indicate other emotions or needs. For instance, if your German Shepherd is licking excessively, it may be a sign of anxiety or stress. Dogs often use repetitive licking as a self-soothing mechanism when feeling nervous or overwhelmed.

Pawing

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Pawing is a polite way for your German Shepherd to ask for your attention. They might be looking for a cuddle, a game, or just your company. Pawing can also be a way for your dog to seek comfort or reassurance in stressful situations. If they paw at you during a vet visit or when meeting new people, they might be looking to you for support and reassurance.

Eye Contact

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Maintaining direct eye contact with your German Shepherd signifies trust, focus, and affection. It shows they’re comfortable with you and consider you a part of their pack. The connection of gaze, often accompanied by a relaxed mouth with the tongue sticking out and a wagging tail, is their way of engaging in an intimate, non-verbal conversation with you.

Barking

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This can indicate excitement, fear, or aggression. They commonly bark when they sense potential threats, whether a stranger approaching the home, the sound of an unfamiliar vehicle, or even small animals in the yard. It is also an attention-seeking behavior. If they bark and receive a reaction from their owner—such as being scolded or even being looked at—they may continue this behavior to elicit a response.

Yelping

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If your dog suddenly yelps when touched or during movement, it may be due to an injury or discomfort. This could range from a minor issue, like a pulled muscle, to more serious conditions, such as joint problems or internal injuries. Often, a yelp is a reflexive response to fear or surprise. For example, if a loud sound occurs unexpectedly, your dog may yelp to express shock or discomfort.

Snarling

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A snarl is primarily a warning. When a German Shepherd feels threatened or cornered, they may snarl to communicate discomfort and urge others to back off. Also, if they are in pain, they may snarl if someone tries to touch an injured area or if they feel threatened while in a vulnerable state. Fear and anxiety may also be the causes for this.

Nuzzling

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Just as humans hug or cuddle to show love, dogs use nuzzling to seek comfort and connection. This behavior can be particularly noticeable during quiet moments when your dog wants to be close to you, signaling that they feel safe and loved in your presence. It’s their way of saying, “Hey, I’m here, and I’d love some interaction!”

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