How does the environment influence a dog's behaviour?

Behaviour doesn’t happen in a vacuum. The same signal can mean very different things depending on the situation. A dog who yawns while waking up is probably just sleepy, but a dog who yawns repeatedly in a busy environment may be feeling anxious. A tail wag in the middle of a joyful game is very different to a stiff, low wag when a stranger approaches. Always ask yourself: What’s happening in the environment? The Whole Body is also important to consider when trying to determine your dog’s emotional state. It’s easy to focus on a single part like the tail, ears, or face, but canine communication is a full-body affair. For example, a dog may appear relaxed at first glance because their tail is wagging, but a closer look might reveal tension in the body, weight shifted back, or pupils dilated, all signs that they may be feeling uncertain or anxious. Every dog is unique, shaped by their own learning history, experiences, health, and age. Some dogs might freeze when anxious, others might bark or pace. Some enjoy body contact, while others find close physical contact uncomfortable. By learning to notice the small details, how our dogs move, their body language, what vocalisations they make, and the situations they’re in, we can start to piece together the puzzle of how they’re feeling. Each piece of information helps us understand more about their emotional state. Understanding and meeting your dog’s emotional needs can have a big impact on their overall wellbeing. Dogs who feel seen and understood are more likely to feel secure, confident, and less anxious in everyday situations.