Relaxed Body Language Signs

Soft, relaxed eyes

Jaw slightly open and lips relaxed

Ears relaxed (position will vary with breed)

Tense/Anxious Body Language Signs

“Whale eye”

Jaw and/or lips tight

Ears tense (position will vary with breed)

Whole body loose, muscles relaxed

Sitting on one hip

Laying down, head relaxed

Tail muscle relaxed and loose

Whole body tense/forward or tense/slumped

Sitting stiffly (+/- paw raise)

Laying down, tense

Tail tense

Other subtle body language signs of stress/anxiety

Lip licking: Normal if just eaten. Sign of stress at any other time.

Yawning: Normal if just woken up. Sign of tension at any other time.

Body shake: Normal if just bathed or brushed. Sign of tension at any other time.