Which indicators should be observed before allowing a friendly greeting between dogs?

Which indicators should be observed before allowing a friendly greeting between dogs?

• A. Ears, tail, body tension, hackles, lip licking, yawning, and the overall distance and approach.
• B. Only the distance matters.
• C. Ears, tail, body tension, hackles, lip licking, yawning, and the overall distance and approach.
• D. Breed type determines greeting.

Answer: (C)

Reading dog body language before a greeting is essential to keep both dogs comfortable and safe. Look for a pattern of signals that show calm and openness rather than stress or aggression. Ears can indicate interest or tension, the tail posture reflects mood and confidence, and overall body tension reveals how relaxed or on-edge the dog is. Hackles raised can signal heightened arousal, while lip licking and yawning can be calming signals that suggest a dog is stressed rather than eager to engage. The distance between the dogs and how they move toward each other matters just as much as any single cue—approaching at a measured, respectful pace with both dogs showing relaxed bodies is a good sign. Because no single cue guarantees a friendly greeting, it’s the combination and context of all these signs that guide your decision. Breed type does not determine greeting; individual dogs will show different signals, so you watch the whole picture rather than relying on one factor.

Reading dog body language before a greeting is essential to keep both dogs comfortable and safe. Look for a pattern of signals that show calm and openness rather than stress or aggression. Ears can indicate interest or tension, the tail posture reflects mood and confidence, and overall body tension reveals how relaxed or on-edge the dog is. Hackles raised can signal heightened arousal, while lip licking and yawning can be calming signals that suggest a dog is stressed rather than eager to engage. The distance between the dogs and how they move toward each other matters just as much as any single cue—approaching at a measured, respectful pace with both dogs showing relaxed bodies is a good sign. Because no single cue guarantees a friendly greeting, it’s the combination and context of all these signs that guide your decision. Breed type does not determine greeting; individual dogs will show different signals, so you watch the whole picture rather than relying on one factor.