Growling: If a dog growls during playtime, it's a sign of discomfort and a potential precursor to biting. Pay attention to this warning sign and back off to ensure safety.
Tail Talk: A dog's tail position reflects its mood. A raised or arched tail may indicate aggression, while a relaxed dog typically has its tail hanging down near its heels.
Previous Biting History: Dogs with a history of aggression or biting require caution. Signs like growling, snapping, or teeth-baring should be noted to prevent potential harm.
Stalking Behavior: A dog displaying low head, stiff posture, and intense stare might be exhibiting predatory behavior. This could lead to aggression if the dog feels threatened.
Raised Hackles: Raised hackles along a dog's back indicate excitement, anxiety, or aggression. It's an involuntary response and a signal that the dog may be on edge.
Tense Body Language: Stiffness, tucked tail, and pressed lips signify fear in dogs. They may resort to biting if pushed further, focusing solely on the source of their stress.
Dominating Posture: A dog adopting a dominant posture with locked eyes, stiff body, and raised hackles may be attempting to intimidate.
Intense Staring: Intense staring from a dog can signal discomfort or threat. Avoid direct eye contact and give the dog space to alleviate tension.
Mating: Male dogs may display aggression during mating, especially when a female is in heat.
Protecting Territory: Approaching a dog's territory can trigger aggression, especially if the owner is absent.