Although dogs may not be able to “talk” like humans do, they are able to communicate with each other quite effectively. Dogs primarily use body language to get their point across to each other but are adept at communicating vocally and with scents.
It is important for humans to understand how dogs communicate with each other since it can help you understand and communicate better with your furry loved one.
Why Do Dogs Communicate With Each Other?
Dogs communicate with each other for various reasons ranging from being social to conflict resolution. Remember, our dogs are social animals, but they descended from wolves that were pack animals.
Your dog’s ancestors had to form packs to hunt together, safeguard resources, and defend the group. They also had to avoid infighting so that the pack would remain healthy and be able to stay productive. These wolves had to develop a method of communication that would help ensure their survival.
These communication instincts that wolves developed remained in dogs as they were domesticated.
How Do Dogs Communicate With Each Other?
Whether it's through pheromones, a sharp bark, or even the way the tail is tucked, dogs have developed ways to communicate with each other utilizing just about all of their senses.
Body Language
Dogs have a range of body language that they use to communicate with each other. This communication is often subtle, and understanding it can help us to understand our canine companions better.
When a dog wants to be left alone, it might stand very still with its tail tucked and ears flat against its head while avoiding eye contact with other dogs. This communicates to other dogs that they are not interested in interacting or playing.
When a dog is happy, it might wag its tail and have its ears up and forward. They might also have a relaxed body stance, with their head high and eyes bright.
Finally, dogs use body language to show fear or aggression. In these cases, the dog may flatten their ears and body, draw the corners of their mouth back to show their teeth, and growl.
Vocal Communication
Our furry buddies use vocal communication to communicate with one another in various ways. They use a range of sounds to express emotions, share information, and interact with other animals.
One of the most common vocal cues that dogs use is their bark. Depending on the situation and how your dog feels, barks will have different meanings. A rapidly repeating bark can mean the dog is surprised or feels in distress, while slow repeating barking can show aggression.
Another cue to look out for is growling. While growling is usually aggressive behavior, a growl with a high pitch can just be a sign of surprise. Some dogs will growl while playing with others, but these growls will be higher in pitch.
Looking for the perfect treat to bring to your next OpenPark visit? Take a look at our Park FreshBites!
The Nose Knows
Dogs have some of the most sensitive noses in the animal kingdom. Their sensitivity to smells is why they’re called in for jobs like finding survivors in a disaster or to smell for dangerous substances at the airport. It is also why dogs are adept at picking up olfactory cues from other animals through pheromones.
Dog pheromones are natural chemicals produced by dogs that affect their behavior and communication. They are released through the dog’s skin, urine, and saliva and are used to mark territory and signal danger. Pheromones have been studied extensively in the canine world and can have both positive and negative effects.
Pheromones released from a dog’s skin or sweat glands can indicate a dog’s emotional state or general health. These pheromones can also be used as a way for a dog to communicate with other dogs. When a dog is stressed, for example, it may release pheromones that tell other dogs that it is in need of help or comfort.
Other pheromones released from a dog’s urine and saliva are used to mark territory. By urinating or defecating on an object, a dog can indicate to other dogs that the area is his or her territory. Urine and saliva pheromones can also be used to attract a mate.
Why is Socialization so Important for Our Dogs?
Just like people, some dogs are better at communication than other dogs. If you feel your dog is falling behind in communicating with other dogs, you don’t have to worry too much. Although some breeds are better at others than communicating, most of it just comes down to practice.
Dogs that have not been socialized properly may have a much more difficult time communicating with other dogs. This could cause dogs to be inappropriately aggressive and even scared when interacting with other dogs since they cannot understand them.
Socialization for dogs, whether puppies or older dogs, should be done where they feel comfortable. By providing a controlled but fun environment for your dog, you will take them to a space where they feel safe and confident enough to start socializing with other dogs. That way, not only will they get their playtime and exercise, but they will start socializing and maybe even making a new best friend at OpenPark.
OpenPark creates a community not only for the dog but also for their owners that is welcoming and safe. Making sure your dog is at ease will allow them to put its best paw forward when socializing with other dogs. Make sure you bring some treats and water for your dog.
Making sure your dog is socialized also helps reduce anxiety and increase their confidence when encountering new people, animals, and environments. Socialization is also important for dogs who are kept in kennels or shelters, as it can help them to adjust to different environments.
Looking for the best environment to socialize your dog in? Come to OpenPark!
Final Thoughts
Dogs do understand and communicate with each other, and that is why it is important to their health and well-being that they be socialized properly. Provide a safe and fun environment for your fur babies so that they can comfortably learn to communicate with other dogs.