Signs of Arousal
These signs indicate that your dog is interested in something, or trying to decide on a course of action and is not receptive to attention (such as petting from a child) and include:
- ears forward
- mouth closed
- eyes intense
- body rolled forward
- body tense
- tail high (may or may not be wagging)
- low deliberate tail wag
This is the type of posture we see in a dog who wants to chase a squirrel, confront an intruder or is getting ready to chase a ball. He is intensely focused and ready for action. He does not want to be hugged or petted at this time. Teach children to leave a dog alone who is tense and focused like this.