Body Language Breakdown (Weekly Series)

This week we’re focusing on the ears. A dog’s ears are one of the clearest indicators of how they are feeling in the moment, but they are also influenced by breed, structure, and natural carriage, so context always matters. Forward ears often indicate interest or engagement, especially when paired with a soft, relaxed body. Ears pinned back can suggest uncertainty, stress, or appeasement, but in some cases may also simply reflect excitement or movement. Ears that are constantly shifting or flicking can show that a dog is actively processing their environment and scanning for information. The key is not to read ears in isolation, but to look at them as part of the whole picture, including body posture, tail position, mouth, and overall energy. Next week we’ll break down another part of the body to help you better understand what your dog is communicating.