What form of communication may demonstrate happiness in dogs?

Prepare for the Fear Free Veterinary Certification Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready to pass your certification!

Happy tail wagging is a well-recognized sign of a dog's positive emotional state. When a dog wags its tail, especially when combined with other body language cues like relaxed ears and a soft expression, it typically indicates that the dog is feeling content, excited, or happy. Tail wagging can vary in speed and position; a high, broad wag often signifies a friendly and happy demeanor.

In contrast, other forms of communication such as low growling or snapping with teeth generally signal discomfort, aggression, or protective behavior rather than happiness. Barking loudly can indicate a range of emotions depending on the context, including excitement, anxiety, or a desire to alert. Therefore, while barking may sometimes accompany happiness, it is not exclusively a sign of that emotion as happy tail wagging is.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy