How Dogs Communicate with Each Other

Chow Chow
When a dog at home meets a stranger dog, they often initially show nervousness, then use a series of body movements to communicate until they eventually become playmates. Dogs are social animals. In the absence of their own kind companions, dogs will also consider humans as members of their group.
1. Using scent marking
Leaving urine scent at strategic locations is a way to mark territory for other dogs, letting them know who left the mark and when they passed by. To avoid conflict, dogs have habitual submissive behaviors such as ears drooping, lifting one leg, exposing the belly, or tucking the tail between the legs. This Laekenois is indicating to humans and more dominant dogs that its behavior poses no threat by lying down and lifting a leg.
2. Learning about others through scent
Sniffing urine is very similar to shaking hands in human greetings. This helps dogs determine the other dog's gender and psychological state.
3. Meeting unfamiliar dogs
Dogs use a complex body language to avoid conflicts when meeting other dogs. Dogs spend their lives playing and tussling, especially as puppies. Shown is a Belgian Shepherd learning to assert its dominance. Some dogs may get overly excited and bite companions while playing.
4. Anxiety when left alone
Whining, barking, pacing anxiously, and destroying things are all signs of stress dogs exhibit when left alone.
5. Attracting playmates' attention
Bowing to a playmate is one of the most appealing body languages among dogs. Dogs generally use this “come play with me” signal to invite other dogs or people to chase or play together.