Canine Ethology and Communication Flashcards

A dog yawns repeatedly while sitting at the vet's waiting room, though it is not tired. What is this most likely signaling?

Answer: Stress or appeasement

Yawning out of context is a calming signal indicating stress or an attempt to defuse tension.

What does a 'play bow' (front legs lowered, rear raised) most reliably communicate?

Answer: An invitation to play

The play bow is a meta-signal that frames following behaviors as non-serious play.

A dog turns its head away and licks its lips when a stranger leans over it. These are best described as:

Answer: Calming/appeasement signals

Lip-licking and head-turning are appeasement signals used to reduce perceived threat.

What does 'whale eye' (showing the whites of the eyes) typically indicate?

Answer: Stress, fear, or discomfort

Whale eye reveals tension and is a warning that the dog is uncomfortable.

A wagging tail held low and moving in a slow, wide sweep most likely communicates:

Answer: A relaxed, friendly mood

A low, loose, broad wag generally reflects a calm and friendly emotional state.

Ethologically, what is the primary function of canine scent-marking with urine?

Answer: Communicating identity and territory to other dogs

Scent-marking deposits chemical information about identity, status, and territory.

A dog freezes stiffly with a closed mouth and hard stare while guarding a bone. This posture signals:

Answer: Resource guarding and a warning

Stiff freezing with a hard stare is a clear warning to back away from a valued resource.