1. **Tail Position**: A wagging tail can indicate excitement, but the position matters. A high, wagging tail often shows happiness, while a low or tucked tail may indicate fear or submission.
2. **Ears**: Erect ears can signify alertness or curiosity, while flattened ears against the head often suggest fear or aggression. Pay attention to the ear position during introductions.
3. **Body Posture**: A relaxed body posture with a loose stance indicates comfort, while a stiff, tense body can be a sign of anxiety or aggression. If a dog is leaning forward, it may be showing interest, while leaning back could indicate discomfort.
4. **Mouth**: A relaxed mouth with a slightly open jaw can show a dog is calm. Conversely, a closed mouth or a curled lip can indicate stress or aggression. Look for signs of yawning, which can indicate stress or a need to calm down.
5. **Eye Contact**: Soft, relaxed eyes indicate comfort, while hard, direct stares can be a sign of aggression. If a dog is avoiding eye contact, it may be feeling submissive or fearful.
6. **Play Bow**: If a dog lowers its front legs while keeping its rear end up, it’s a play bow. This is a clear invitation to play and a good sign that the dog is friendly.
7. **Sniffing**: Dogs often sniff each other as a way to gather information. This is normal behavior during introductions. Allowing them to sniff each other can help ease the tension.
**Tips for Successful Introductions**:
- Start in a neutral location where neither dog feels territorial.
- Keep both dogs on a leash initially to maintain control.
- Observe their body language closely and be ready to intervene if necessary.
- Give them time to acclimate to each other’s presence before forcing interaction.
- If you notice signs of stress, such as growling or snapping, it may be wise to separate them and try again later.
By paying attention to these body language cues, you can help ensure a safe and friendly introduction between dogs, promoting positive interactions and reducing the risk of aggression.
This answer doesn't make sense or isn't related to the question. Mark it as a probable hallucination of the AI model.