What are the signs that your dog is trying to show submission?

Dogs communicate submission through a variety of body language signals and behaviors. Understanding these signs is crucial for interpreting your dog's emotional state and ensuring a healthy, stress-free relationship. Submission is a natural behavior in dogs, often used to avoid conflict, show respect, or de-escalate tension. Below is a detailed explanation of the signs of submission in dogs, along with practical insights and recommendations.

1. Body posture: A submissive dog will often lower its body to the ground, sometimes crouching or lying down completely. This posture makes the dog appear smaller and less threatening. The dog may also tuck its tail between its legs, which is a clear sign of submission or fear. The tail may wag slightly, but it will be low and slow, not high and vigorous.

2. Ears and eyes: Submissive dogs typically flatten their ears against their head, making them appear smaller. They may also avoid direct eye contact, as staring can be perceived as a challenge in dog communication. Instead, they may look away or avert their gaze, often blinking frequently or showing the whites of their eyes (known as "whale eye").

3. Licking and mouth signals: A submissive dog may lick the face or mouth of a more dominant dog or person. This behavior is rooted in puppyhood, where puppies lick their mother's mouth to solicit food. In adult dogs, it is a gesture of appeasement. Additionally, a submissive dog may keep its mouth closed or slightly open with a relaxed tongue, avoiding any signs of aggression like bared teeth.

4. Rolling over: One of the most obvious signs of submission is when a dog rolls onto its back, exposing its belly. This is a vulnerable position that signals trust and surrender. Some dogs may also urinate slightly when rolling over, which is a more extreme form of submission, often seen in puppies or overly anxious dogs.

5. Slow movements: Submissive dogs tend to move slowly and deliberately, avoiding sudden or jerky motions that could be interpreted as threatening. They may also freeze in place or move away from a perceived threat to avoid confrontation.

6. Vocalizations: While submissive dogs are generally quiet, they may whine or whimper softly to communicate their non-threatening intentions. Growling or barking is rare in truly submissive dogs, as these sounds are more associated with assertiveness or fear-based aggression.

7. Play bows: Although play bows are often associated with playfulness, they can also be a sign of submission. By lowering the front half of their body while keeping their rear end up, dogs signal that they are not a threat and are open to interaction.

Potential risks and concerns: While submission is a normal part of dog behavior, excessive or constant submission can indicate underlying anxiety or fear. Dogs that are overly submissive may struggle with confidence and may be more prone to stress-related health issues. It is important to ensure that your dog feels safe and secure in its environment.

Practical tips and recommendations: To help a submissive dog build confidence, provide consistent, positive reinforcement training. Avoid punishing or scolding your dog, as this can exacerbate submissive behaviors. Instead, reward calm and confident behavior with treats, praise, and affection. Socialization with other dogs and people in a controlled, positive environment can also help your dog feel more secure.

When to seek professional help: If your dog's submissive behaviors are accompanied by signs of extreme fear, such as trembling, excessive urination, or withdrawal, it may be necessary to consult a veterinarian or a certified dog behaviorist. These professionals can help identify the root cause of the behavior and develop a tailored plan to address it.

In summary, recognizing and understanding submissive behaviors in dogs is essential for fostering a positive and trusting relationship. By responding appropriately and providing a supportive environment, you can help your dog feel more confident and secure. Always monitor your dog's behavior for signs of stress or anxiety, and seek professional guidance if needed.