How Dogs "Talk": A Veterinarian Explains Canine Communication

Dogs absolutely communicate with one another using a variety of vocalizations, body language, and scent cues.

Barking can signal excitement, alertness, or serve as a warning, while whining is often a sign of submission, anxiety, or a request for attention. Howling is commonly used for long-distance communication, bonding, or responding to specific sounds, and growling can be a warning or a sign of discomfort—though in some contexts, it may also be playful.

Beyond vocalizations, dogs rely heavily on body language. Tail position and movement convey a range of emotions—a high, stiff wag can indicate alertness or aggression, while a relaxed, loose wag is usually a sign of friendliness. Ear positioning also plays a role, with forward ears signaling engagement and pinned-back ears indicating fear or submission. A dog’s posture can communicate dominance, confidence, or playfulness, all of which impact interactions with other dogs.

Scent is another crucial aspect of canine communication. Dogs gather information by sniffing each other, marking territory, and detecting emotional states through pheromones. This explains why two dogs meeting for the first time often engage in an extended sniffing session before interacting further.

Dogs also communicate with humans. They use vocalizations, body language, and eye contact to express their needs and emotions. Barking, whining, growling, and even sighing all serve as ways to get our attention or convey feelings. For instance, a wagging tail and excited jumps can indicate joy or excitement, whereas a tucked tail with pinned ears can indicate nervousness. Dogs also use physical contact, such as pawing, nudging, licking, or leaning, to express affection, seek comfort, or ask for attention.

How can we communicate back?

As pet parents, we can improve communication with dogs by using clear verbal cues, consistent body language, and positive reinforcement. Short, simple words like “sit,” “stay,” or “come” are easiest for dogs to understand. Our tone of voice plays a role—excited, happy tones reinforce positive behaviors, while a calm, firm voice is best for commands. Dogs respond well to confident, open body language, and rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play helps reinforce training.

Fun facts:

- Dogs can recognize human emotions and distinguish between happy and angry facial expressions.

- The direction of a dog’s tail wag is meaningful—a wag to the right typically signals positivity, while a wag to the left may indicate uncertainty.

- Dogs respond better to high-pitched, happy tones—“puppy talk” really works!

- Some breeds are more vocal—Huskies, Beagles, and Shepherds love to “talk,” while Basenjis don’t bark but produce a yodel-like sound.

Understanding how dogs communicate helps strengthen the bond between pet parents and their furry companions. Paying attention to their vocalizations, posture, and behavior can help us meet their needs more effectively—and build a stronger, more trusting relationship.

-Dr. Sarah