Free Resource
Dog Body Language Guide
Not sure if they are playing or fighting? Print this visual guide to understand green flags (play) vs. red flags (tension).
Indoor Dog Park
Quick Reference
Provided by IndoorDogPark.org
1. Posture & Stance
Playful (Green Flag)
Loose, wiggly body. Noticeable "play bows" (front end down, rear end up). Bouncy, exaggerated movements that switch back and forth.
Tense (Red Flag)
Stiff, rigid body with weight shifted forward. Suddenly freezing in place when approached by another dog.
2. Tail Position
Playful (Green Flag)
Broad, sweeping wags that often involve the entire rear end. Tail is held at a neutral or slightly elevated level.
Tense (Red Flag)
Tail tucked tight under the belly (fear), or stiffly flagged straight up and vibrating at the tip (over-arousal or aggression).
3. Facial Expressions
Playful (Green Flag)
Soft eyes (almond shaped), relaxed ears, and an open mouth (often looking like a "doggy smile" with the tongue lolling out).
Tense (Red Flag)
Hard staring ("whale eye" where the whites of the eyes show). Ears pinned completely flat back. Tight closed mouth or rapid lip licking.
4. Vocalizations
Playful (Green Flag)
High-pitched, exaggerated sneezes (this is a dog's way of saying "I'm just playing!"). Soft grunts, play growls, or bouncy barks.
Tense (Red Flag)
Low, continuous rumbling growl accompanied by a stiff body. Sharp, high-pitched yelps of pain or fear. Snarling with bared teeth.