Canine Ethology and Communication Flashcards
7 cards from real Dog Training practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Canine Ethology and Communication flashcards as text
During play, dogs often perform 'self-handicapping.' What does this mean?
Answer: A stronger dog inhibits its strength to keep play fair
Self-handicapping is when a more capable dog moderates its force so play continues safely.
A dog displays a 'tongue flick' (quick flick of the tongue) when approached by a child. This usually signals:
Answer: Mild stress or discomfort
A brief tongue flick is a low-level stress signal warning of discomfort.
Why is a stiff, fast, high tail wag potentially a warning sign despite involving wagging?
Answer: Wagging shows arousal, and stiffness/height can signal tension or threat
Tail wagging indicates arousal, and a high stiff wag can accompany aggression rather than friendliness.
What is 'displacement behavior' in dogs, such as sudden scratching during training?
Answer: An out-of-context behavior expressing inner conflict or stress
Displacement behaviors are normal acts performed out of context to relieve internal conflict or stress.
When a dog 'splits' by walking between two interacting dogs or people, it is most likely:
Answer: Acting as a calming/peacemaking intervention
Splitting is a social behavior used to interrupt and defuse rising tension between others.
A dog that suddenly becomes very still and stops sniffing when a person reaches toward its food bowl is showing:
Answer: A freeze, an early resource-guarding warning
Freezing is a critical early warning that often precedes a growl or snap during guarding.
Why do dogs sniff each other's rear ends upon greeting?
Answer: To gather chemical information about identity and status
Anal and gland secretions carry detailed scent information dogs use to identify one another.