Dog Body Language - He's Showing Teeth!

A few of my clients have the belief that any showing teeth from a dog means that it is being aggresive. That is not true at all.

For example, if you are scratching your dog in his favorite spot, and his mouth is wide open ... That is one happy dog! That's what we refer to as the "doggie smile."

Showing teeth is also a warning. Sometimes dogs walk around displaying one canine tooth to each other. That's letting them know that if they cross the line, there will be a fight.

Also, some dogs smile in the same fashion when their owners return home. Both canines are showing, but look at the ears - They are back.

So learn your dog body language. And don't think that just because you see a dog's teeth, it is being an aggressive dog. It could be a smile!

If you are really concerned about it, let a professional have a look.