A Greyhounds neutral state of calm is ears back, so their first line of communication is their ears. Remember, dogs communicate in any number of ways.

• What does the tail look like? Is it tucked right under? Or is it wagging between legs in a frantic matter?

• What do the eyes and ears do? Have they fixated on something? Are they looking around as if to plan an escape? Are their eyes dilated? Or can you see the white of their eyes? Have the ears raised?

• Look at their mouth. Are they panting? Lip licking? Panting? Yawning excessively? Are teeth showing?

• How does their posture appear? Are they stiff? Are they pacing? Cowering or all of a sudden clingy? Is their hair standing up on their tail or upper body? Or have they expressed (pee or poo)?

• Can you hear any sounds? Are they growling? Whining, whimpering or barking unusually?

This is why observing your Greyhounds cues are important as you will get a better understanding of what they are trying to tell you. You will be able to recognise signs of stress or anxiety, which can used to predict behaviours and proactively help keep your Greyhound in their neutral state of calm – thus improving your relationship.

Missing these cues could result in unwanted behaviours – such as toileting in the house, growling, barking, digging, howling, not coming when called or unfortunately biting.

If you think your Greyhound is showing some of these cues and you need assistance – our team are here to support you.