When trying to analyze an animal's body language, each signal must be taken in context. Other body language signals should be analyzed as well to form as complete as possible view of the animal's intent or emotional state. You can generally characterize signs in 3 categories: go, stop and yield.
The ear carriage of a dog can offer a great deal of information, but it can also be a confusing body language cue to interpret. That is why it is labeled a “yield” signal. When assessing ear carriage consider the context along with other body postures displayed by the individual dog. In general, the farther back the ears are pinned against the head, the more frightened the disposition of the dog.
The ear carriage of a dog can offer a great deal of information, but it can also be a confusing body language cue to interpret. That is why it is labeled a “yield” signal. When assessing ear carriage consider the context along with other body postures displayed by the individual dog. In general, the farther back the ears are pinned against the head, the more frightened the disposition of the dog.
This dog’s ears are mid way between being forward and being flattened against his head. The skin around his face is pulled back and looks taught. He is stressed.
This dog’s ears are held flat against her head, however she has a play face and a stick in her mouth. She is excited, but not fearful or stressed. Courtesy: Alanna Lowry DVM
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This dog's ears are held mid way between the back of her head and her eyes, but her face is relaxed. Her pupils are mildly dilated indicating that she is aroused. She is sitting calmly, but is slightly nervous about the camera.
This dog is holding his ears in a relaxed position. They are flaccid and his mouth is hanging open loosely. He is relaxed.
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