We are taught as children that a growling dog is something to be scared of — to back away slowly and give the dog space. With an unknown dog, this advice is still valid, especially for children. Never approach a growling dog you don’t know, under any circumstances.
However, dogs growl for more reasons than just defense, and many are great talkers (not barkers — talkers). Each type of growl has its own meaning, body language, and way to respond appropriately. Learning what your dog is ‘saying’ with each growl will help you understand them better.
The Mean or Offensive Growl
The Mean Growl is distinct, and if you ever find yourself on the wrong end of this warning, you’ll clearly understand what the dog is trying to communicate. The dog is on the defense, and his body language is intense, focused entirely on you. His ears are forward, and he is on his toes, leaning into the growl. His lips are severely curled, but his mouth is often partially closed. His hackles are raised, and his tail is up, arched over his back. Everything about his body is pointed in your direction, telling you, “Come any closer, and I will attack.” This dog is serious, and no one wants to be on the receiving end of this growl.
The best way to diffuse the situation is to slowly back away. Do not make eye contact, speak quietly in a calm, happy voice, and avoid any sudden movements. He may match your retreat step for step, but no matter how much you might want to, do not turn and run. Get out of the situation and find somewhere safe.
The Warning or Defensive Growl
A defensive dog is more hesitant and, in many ways, more dangerous than the offensive dog. This dog is fearful and unsure of his ability to protect himself, making him harder to predict.
His body language is pulled back compared to the offensive dog. His ears are flat and pointed back, his teeth are showing, but his lips are pulled severely back. He leans away from you, possibly at an angle, rather than facing you straight on. His hackles are up, but his tail may be down, at an odd angle, or tucked under his belly.
The defensive dog does not want a confrontation but may attack to show his strength in a bluff move (think of a cat trying to appear bigger in the face of danger). If he does attack, he will bite and run, not hold on. Again, backing away slowly is your best course of action, but keep an eye on him. This is the type of dog that may try a sneak attack if you turn your back. Face to face, he is unlikely to attack with force.
The Play Growl
Dogs also growl when playing with each other. If you’ve ever listened to a litter of puppies, it sounds like World War III. Growling is normal communication for dogs, and in a play situation, it’s similar to a human egging on the other during a pillow fight. It’s meant to encourage the desired behavior, not to be aggressive.
The body language of a play growl is alert but relaxed. The lips are loose, covering the teeth, ears are in their natural play position, hackles are down, and the tail is in its typical play position. This is not a serious situation unless you’re the toy!
Depending on your personal situation, you might want to discourage this growl behavior. For example, if you have children or their friends often visit, a play growl may scare a child who is not used to being around a dog. Additionally, if you have a large or giant breed, a play growl could seem much more intimidating than it would with a small dog.
The Talkie Growl
Some dogs communicate by barking, while others give you ‘the look’ and some use a growl to get your attention. In this case, the dog’s body language is neutral or suggestive of “follow me.” They are alert, but comfortable in their surroundings. In terms of doggy-human communication, this is usually worth paying attention to, as it often means they need something right away — like going outside, their water dish is empty, or perhaps the house is on fire. You know, just the essentials that they want you to take care of immediately, not in a few minutes.
Dogs growl for many reasons, and each growl has its own meaning. By learning to read your dog’s moods and body language, you’ll better understand what they are telling you. However, keep in mind that not all dogs communicate in the same way, so if an unknown dog is growling at you, always take it seriously — back away and do not approach again until the owner is present.
