Image Quiz: Canine Body Language

Reading canine body language accurately is important for patient health and comfort, veterinary team safety, and proper client education and consultation.^1-3 Because dogs cannot talk, veterinary professionals must rely on interpretations of the animals’ body language cues for communication.^1,2,4 Clues such as proximity preference, food acceptance, postures, and expressions improve understanding of patient emotions. The more relaxed a patient is, the more likely an interaction will be safe and successful.^1,3 Increased levels of anxiety, fear, and stress are associated with increased handling challenges and decreased team safety.² Use these photos and images to review a variety of expressions, postures, and positions associated with different canine emotional states.