How to Understand Your Doodle's Body Language

Why Body Language Matters in Doodles

Doodles can't speak our human language so they rely heavily on body language to communicate. The better we can interpret these cues, the better we can respond to their needs. This also fosters a stronger bond and increases trust between you two.

Common Body Parts Dogs Use to Communicate

Below are common body parts that Doodles use to communicate with us.

As with anything, context is crucial. Please use the information below as a general guideline and be sure to take into account the overall body posture, facial expressions, and the environment. An excited tail wag during playtime at the park is entirely different from a stiff wag in a confrontational situation.

The Tail

Relaxed, natural tail:

This is a good sign that your Doodle is feeling calm and content. The tail will hang down naturally, swaying gently with your dog's movements.

Wagging tail

Context is key here. A very fast, stiff wag could mean your Doodle is on high alert, particularly if accompanied by a fixed stare.

High and stiff tail

This indicates that your Doodle is on high alert and saying, "I'm not quite sure about this situation." Your Doodle is assessing the situation and deciding how to react. This is especially true if the tail is held high and the rest of the body is rigid.

Low, tucked Tail

When your Doodle's tail is lower than its natural position, it often a sign that they're feeling fearful, submissive or scared. The tail might even be slightly tucked. This could happen in situations where your dog feels threatened or unconfident.

Tucked tail

Your Doodle is feeling calm and content. It will hang down naturally, going with the flow of their movements. This is usually a good sign that your pup is in a happy state.

Ears

Perked up and forward

When your Doodle's ears are standing at attention and pointing forward, it means they're alert and interested in something. This could be a sound they heard, a smell that caught their attention, or something they see in the distance. It's their way of gathering information about their environment.

Pulled back slightly

Ears that are pulled back slightly and held close to the head often indicate that your Doodle is feeling friendly and relaxed. This is a good sign that they're comfortable in their current situation. You might see this when you're petting them or when they're enjoying a calm moment at home.

Flattened against the head

When your Doodle's ears are pressed flat against their head, it's usually a sign of fear or submission. They're trying to make themselves look smaller and less threatening. This could happen if there is a loud noise, an unfamiliar situation, or when they're being scolded.

One ear up, one ear down

This asymmetrical ear position is the classic "huh?" pose. Your Doodle is tryning to figure something out. You might see this when you're teaching them a new trick or when they hear an unfamiliar sound. It shows that your Doodle is processing information and trying to understand what's happening.

Eyes 

Soft, relaxed gaze

When your Doodle's eyes are soft and relaxed, with normal blinking, this is a sign that they're feeling content and comfortable. Their eyelids might be slightly droopy, giving them a calm appearance. This is often seen when they're in a familiar, safe environment or enjoying some quiet time with you.

Hard stare

A fixed, intense stare with wide-open eyes can be a sign of aggression or a challenge. This is especially true if it's accompanied by a stiff body posture or raised hair. This could happen if your Doodle feels threatened or is guarding a resource.

Avoiding eye contact

If your Doodle is deliberately looking away or avoiding eye contact, it's often a sign of submission or anxiety. They might be feeling uncomfortable in a situation and are trying to show that they're not a threat. This could happen in the presence of a more dominant dog or when they're feeling overwhelmed.

Frequent blinking

Rapid blinking or squinting is often a sign of friendliness or an attempt to calm a situation. In dog language, it's like saying, "I come in peace." You might see this when your Doodle is greeting a friendly dog or trying to appease a person or animal they perceive as dominant.

Paws

Paw lifting

When a Doodle lifts one paw off the ground and holds it there, it often signals uncertainty or anticipation. It's like saying, "I'm not sure what's happening, but I'm ready for whatever comes next." This is especially common when they're waiting for a treat or a command. You might also see this if they're feeling slightly anxious about something in their environment.

Pawing at you

If your Doodle is using their paw to touch or gently scratch at you, they're likely seeking attention. It's their way of saying, "Hey, look at me!". This could mean they want to play, need to go outside, or just want some affection.

Stretching

When your Doodle stretches, especially if it's combined with a relaxed overall posture, it usually means they're comfortable and content. The "play bow" (front end down, rear end up) is a special kind of stretch that invites play. But a full-body stretch, often accompanied by a yawn, is a sign of a dog that feels safe and at ease in their environment.

Posture

Relaxed, wiggly body

A relaxed and comfortable Doodle will have a loose, open body posture and may even be a bit wiggly. You might see a slight swing in their hips as they walk, and their mouth may be slightly open with a relaxed tongue. This is the posture of a happy, contented dog who feels safe in their environment.

Stiff, tall stance

This is a defensive or fearful state. Your Doodle's weight might be shifted slightly forward, and you might notice the hair on their back standing up. This is their way of showing that they are on high alert and ready to protect themselves if needed. It's important to be cautious and safely de-escalate the situation if you see this posture.

Lowered body, maybe with tail tucked

This is a submissive posture indicating that your Doodle is intimidated or scared.  They are trying to make themselves appear smaller by lowering their body and even tucking their tail between their legs. You might also see them turn their head away or lick their lips frequently.  

Play bow (front end down, rear end up)

When a dog wants to engage in play, they will often lower their front end while keeping their back end up in the air. This is commonly seen during playtime with other dogs or even humans. It's an invitation to play and a sign that whatever comes next is all in good fun. You might see their tail wagging and a relaxed, open-mouthed expression along with this posture.

How to Respond to Your Doodle's Body Language

First, to encourage calm, friendly behavior positive reinforcement is key. Reward this behavior to show your Doodle that this is correct and encourage more of it!

If your Doodle's showing signs of fear or anxiety, don't force interactions. Give them space and use a calm, reassuring voice. And if you see signs of aggression, stay calm and remove your Doodle from the situation. You can always consult a private trainer for more specialized training.

Conclusion

Learning how to read your Doodle's body language is necessary for any Doodle owner. It allows you to understand their emotions, needs, and state of mind. The more you understand your Doodle's body language, the better you'll be able to respond to their needs making for a healthier and stronger bond all around.

Comment below and let me know what body language cues you've noticed in your Doodle!