How Dogs Communicate: A Beginner’s Guide for New Dog Owners

If you’re new to dog ownership, you’ve probably already realised: dogs don’t speak our language. But that doesn’t mean they’re not constantly communicating. In fact, dogs have a rich and subtle way of “talking”—we just need to learn how to listen.

Understanding your dog’s body language is one of the most important skills you can develop. It helps you keep your dog safe, happy, and confident, and it builds a stronger bond between you both.

Dogs Speak with Their Bodies

Unlike humans, dogs don’t rely on words. Instead, they communicate using body signals, facial expressions, eye contact, and even how they move. Most of what they “say” is quiet and easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.

Here are some common signs to watch for:

• Lip licking (not after food): often a sign of nervousness or uncertainty

• Yawning (outside of bedtime): can mean stress or a way to calm themselves

• A stiff or still body: usually a warning that they’re uncomfortable

• A slow tail wag: not always friendly—context matters

• Turning their head or walking away: often a way of saying “I need space”

The more you observe your dog, the more you’ll start to recognise their own unique ways of expressing how they feel.

Not All Dogs Want to Say Hello

It’s easy to assume dogs love to meet other dogs—but that’s not always true. Some are social, others are more reserved. Some love play, others prefer calm company or being left alone.

Forcing dogs into interactions they’re not ready for can lead to stress or even conflict. Watch how your dog behaves around others, and don’t be afraid to advocate for their comfort.

Dog-to-Dog Communication

Dogs have their own way of sorting things out with each other, often without any barking or growling. They use small signals like:

• A hard stare

• A body block (stepping in the way)

• A quiet growl or lip lift

These behaviours might look aggressive, but they’re actually part of how dogs manage space and set boundaries with one another. Most of the time, they’re just trying to avoid a confrontation.

Avoid Human Assumptions

One common mistake new dog owners make is assuming dogs feel or think exactly like humans. For example, thinking your dog is “guilty” when they’ve chewed something up—they’re probably just reacting to your tone or body language in the moment.

Instead of guessing how they feel, look at what their body is telling you. Are they tense or relaxed? Moving towards something or backing away? Tail wagging loosely or stiff and high?

When you read the body language, you respond to the dog they are, not the human we imagine.

Helping Your Dog Feel Secure

As a new dog owner, your role is to be a calm, reliable presence. When your dog trusts that you’ll guide them fairly and protect them when needed, they feel safe—and that confidence shows in how they behave.

Understanding your dog’s communication helps you:

• Spot early signs of stress

• Prevent problems before they escalate

• Create positive interactions with other dogs

• Build a strong, trusting relationship

Final Tip: Watch, Don’t Guess

You don’t have to be a dog expert to start understanding canine communication. Just slow down and observe. Watch how your dog behaves in different situations—at home, on walks, around other dogs, or meeting new people.

Over time, you’ll start to pick up on patterns and signals. That’s when the magic happens—when you and your dog really start speaking the same language.