Dog Behavior: Defensive Threat Posture

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Questions and Answers

What does it indicate if a dog's ears are back?

The dog is in a defensive threat posture. (correct)

The dog is excited to see someone.

The dog is ready to attack.

The dog is feeling playful.

How should a person ideally approach a dog displaying a defensive threat posture?

Approach slowly and make eye contact.

Avoid any movement and stare at the dog.

Run towards the dog to show friendliness.

Maintain neutral stance with no eye contact. (correct)

Which of the following signs is NOT associated with a dog in a defensive threat posture?

Body position low and backward.

Tail wagging enthusiastically. (correct)

Hackles raised.

Pupils dilated.

What vocalization is likely to be heard from a dog in a defensive threat posture?

A low growl or snarl. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical behavior of a dog in a defensive threat posture?

The dog tries to move away and maintain distance. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common behavioral sign of active submission in dogs?

Ears down and tucked close to the head Signup and view all the answers

How might a dog in active submission use vocalization?

No vocalization at all Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following interactions is appropriate for a dog showing signs of active submission?

Remain neutral and calm, allowing the puppy to approach you Signup and view all the answers

What physical posture might a dog in active submission display?

Body lowered and back, possibly appearing to grovel Signup and view all the answers

What cue may indicate a dog is avoiding direct eye contact?

Eyes are narrow and squinty Signup and view all the answers

Which can be a rude greeting or a warning?

Muzzle Punch Signup and view all the answers

Which is not a calming signal?

Whale eye Signup and view all the answers

Ears perked up and forward, eyes scanning, body on a forward axis and tail straight up describes which body posture?

Alert or Aroused Signup and view all the answers

Calming signals help to decrease stress among dogs. True or False?

True Signup and view all the answers

Describe appropriate human body language when approaching a relaxed dog.

Slight curve on approach, not leaning over the dog, no direct prolonged eye contact, calm, remain neutral Signup and view all the answers

What body language is typically shown by a fearful dog?

Tail between the legs, body low and pushed back, lips drawn into a V shape Signup and view all the answers

What is the most appropriate way to approach a passively submissive puppy?

Lower yourself to the puppy's level and wait for it to come to you Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes distance decreasing signals?

Passive submission, play signals, active submission Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about calming signals in dogs is false?

Observing all calming signals at once is crucial for proper understanding Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes how to recognize a dog's fearful behavior?

Tucked tail, low body posture, and a V-shaped mouth Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are all considered warning signals in dogs?

Whale eye, freeze, flight, muzzle punch, hard stare, head flick, growl Signup and view all the answers

Is it true that dogs showing true aggression can be seen in all breeds?

True Signup and view all the answers

What best describes a Defensive Threat Posture in dogs?

Ears flat on the head, narrow eyes, dilated pupils, mouth in V shape, trembling Signup and view all the answers

Does a wagging tail always indicate that a dog is friendly?

False Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes behaviors that arise during emotional conflict as an outlet for energy?

Displacement Behaviours Signup and view all the answers

What does a dog in an offensive posture typically do with its ears?

Ears will be forward. Signup and view all the answers

How does the mouth of an offensive dog typically appear?

Mouth and lips form a C shape to expose teeth. Signup and view all the answers

What vocalization is commonly associated with a threatening dog in an offensive stance?

Snarl, low deep growl, or loud barking. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical body axis position of an offensive dog?

Body axis is upright and forward. Signup and view all the answers

How would the eyes of an offensive dog generally appear?

Narrow or staring challengingly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the tail position typical of an offensive dog?

Tail is up and over the back. Signup and view all the answers

What may happen to the hackles of a dog in an offensive posture?

Hackles may rise on the neck. Signup and view all the answers

How does an offensive dog's body typically feel?

Tense and braced. Signup and view all the answers

What behavior is typical of a dog displaying passive submission?

Eyes squinty or closed and tail tucked Signup and view all the answers

How should a person interact with a dog showing signs of passive submission?

Stay out of the dog's space and remain neutral Signup and view all the answers

What is a common vocalization associated with passive submission in dogs?

None or low, worried whining Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following terms best describes the dog's physical state in passive submission?

Lowered body and possibly rolling onto back Signup and view all the answers

Which reading resource provides insights into canine body language?

Coaching People to Train Their Dogs Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you feel uncomfortable with a dog?

Immediately stop working with the dog and put him away Signup and view all the answers

Which type of behavior is characterized by energy dissipation during emotional conflict?

Displacement Behavior Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the main purpose of personal grooming in dogs?

To maintain cleanliness and comfort Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of aggression in dogs?

The intent to do harm Signup and view all the answers

Which body posture is typically associated with passive submission in dogs?

Lying down and exposing the belly Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Defensive Threat Posture

Dogs exhibit defensive threat posture with ears pinned back, wide and staring eyes, and dilated pupils.
The mouth displays long lips in a V shape, often bared in a snarl, indicating a threat.
Body tension is high; weight is shifted back onto hind legs with a low orientation.
Hackles may rise, legs are braced, and the tail is typically tucked between the legs.
Vocalizations include snarls and low growls, signifying discomfort and readiness to retreat.

Proper Interaction with Defensive Dogs

Increase distance immediately; remain neutral without eye contact.
Position body sideways to minimize perceived threat; avoid direct confrontation.
Allow the dog to approach when it feels comfortable.

Active Submission

Ears are down and closely tucked; eyes squint with avoidance of direct gaze.
Mouth may be open or pulled back, sometimes attempting to lick as a submissive gesture.
Body is lowered, resembling grovelling, with a rapidly moving tail, often tucked.
Vocalizations may consist of a low, worried whine or are absent altogether.

Proper Interaction with Actively Submissive Dogs

Maintain a calm and neutral demeanor; allow the dog to approach at its own pace.
Avoid leaning over the dog to prevent adding stress.

Passive Submission

Ears are either back and tucked or out to the side, with eyes averted or squinting.
Body is lowered, often rolling onto its back, indicating submission.
Tail is tucked, and urination might occur due to overwhelming emotions.
Vocalizations are minimal, typically a low whine if any.

Proper Interaction with Passively Submissive Dogs

Do not approach; instead, give space as the dog may feel overwhelmed.
Lower yourself to the dog’s level without invading its space, adopting a neutral stance.
Understanding both your body language and the dog's is crucial for appropriate interaction.

Key Reading Materials

Canine Body Language, Brenda Aloff
Dog Language, Roger Abrantes
Coaching People to Train Their Dogs, Terry Ryan

Multiple Choice Questions

Recognize key behavior signals that distinguish fearful, defensively posturing, actively submissive, and passively submissive dogs.
Remember that passive submissive dogs require distance and a calm approach, while defensive dogs need space and non-threatening body language.
Understanding of warning signals, such as muzzle punches and whale eye, is essential for safe interactions.

Additional Concepts

Defensive behaviors include a range of signals like hard stares and growls meant to communicate discomfort.
True aggression involves an intent to cause harm, differing from protective or fearful responses.
Displacement behaviors emerge during emotional conflicts, serving as coping mechanisms.

Important Tips

Maintain relaxed and neutral body language when interacting with any type of dog.
Observe the specific signs of aggression, submission, or discomfort to adjust interactions appropriately.
The ability to read a dog's body language is vital for ensuring safety and fostering positive relationships.

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Description

Explore the defensive threat posture of dogs in this quiz. Learn about the physical and vocal cues that indicate a dog is feeling threatened or defensive. Understanding these signals is crucial for dog owners and trainers to manage interactions safely.