How do dogs use their body weight to show submission?

Dogs use their body weight and posture as a key part of their communication system, particularly when showing submission. Submission in dogs is a way to de-escalate conflict, show respect, or acknowledge a higher-ranking individual, whether that is another dog or a human. Understanding how dogs use their body weight to convey submission can help owners interpret their dog's behavior and respond appropriately.

1. Lowering the Body
One of the most obvious ways dogs show submission is by lowering their body closer to the ground. This can range from a slight crouch to lying completely flat on their belly. By making themselves smaller, they signal that they are not a threat. This posture reduces their physical presence and can help avoid confrontation. For example, a dog might lower its body when meeting a more dominant dog or when being scolded by its owner.

2. Shifting Weight Backward
When a dog is feeling submissive, it often shifts its weight backward, away from the perceived threat or dominant individual. This can be seen in a subtle lean backward or a more pronounced movement where the dog steps back or sits down. This action creates physical distance and shows that the dog is not challenging the other party. It is a clear signal of deference.

3. Rolling Over
Rolling over to expose the belly is one of the most extreme forms of submission in dogs. This posture exposes the most vulnerable part of their body, the abdomen, and is a clear sign of trust and surrender. Dogs may do this when they feel overwhelmed or when they want to show complete submission to a more dominant dog or person. It is important to note that not all belly exposure is submissive; some dogs roll over simply because they enjoy belly rubs.

4. Tucking the Tail
A tucked tail is another common sign of submission. By tucking the tail between the legs, the dog reduces its overall body profile and signals that it is not a threat. This action is often accompanied by other submissive behaviors, such as lowering the head or crouching. The tail position is a key indicator of a dog's emotional state, and a tucked tail is a clear sign of fear or submission.

5. Avoiding Eye Contact
While not directly related to body weight, avoiding eye contact is a crucial part of submissive behavior. Dogs that are feeling submissive will often avert their gaze or look away to show that they are not challenging the other individual. This behavior is often combined with a lowered body posture and a tucked tail.

6. Practical Tips for Owners
Understanding these behaviors can help owners respond appropriately to their dog's needs. If a dog is showing submissive behaviors, it is important to avoid overwhelming or intimidating the dog further. Instead, use calm, reassuring tones and avoid direct eye contact. Allow the dog to approach you on its own terms and provide positive reinforcement when the dog shows confidence.

7. Potential Risks and Concerns
While submissive behaviors are normal, excessive or prolonged submission can indicate underlying anxiety or fear. If a dog is constantly showing submissive behaviors, it may be a sign that the dog is stressed or uncomfortable in its environment. In such cases, it is important to address the root cause of the anxiety and provide the dog with a safe and supportive environment.

8. When to Seek Professional Help
If a dog's submissive behaviors are accompanied by signs of extreme fear, such as trembling, excessive drooling, or attempts to escape, it may be necessary to consult a professional. A veterinarian or a certified dog behaviorist can help assess the dog's emotional state and develop a plan to address any underlying issues.

9. Prevention and Long-Term Care
To prevent excessive submission, it is important to build a dog's confidence through positive reinforcement training and socialization. Exposing the dog to a variety of environments, people, and other animals in a controlled and positive manner can help the dog feel more secure and less likely to resort to extreme submissive behaviors.

10. Additional Related Information
It is also worth noting that submission is not the same as fear. While submissive behaviors can be a response to fear, they are also a natural part of canine social interactions. Dogs use these behaviors to maintain harmony within their social groups, whether those groups are made up of other dogs or humans.

In conclusion, dogs use their body weight and posture in a variety of ways to show submission. By understanding these behaviors, owners can better interpret their dog's emotions and respond in a way that supports their dog's well-being. If submissive behaviors become excessive or are accompanied by signs of fear, it may be necessary to seek professional help to address any underlying issues.