Dog Calming Signals: Meaning & Scientific Classification
What do calming signals in dogs mean?
Calming signals in dogs are body signals intended to regulate tension during social interactions. The term was coined by the Norwegian dog trainer Turid Rugaas (book "On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals," 2006). Rugaas described 30 signals that, based on her observations, dogs use to de-escalate conflicts or create distance—such as licking their lips, turning away, yawning, slowing down, or sniffing the ground.
A more technically accurate classification is that of stress and distancing signals. They indicate that a situation is unpleasant for the dog—whether they are actually intended to “appease others” or primarily serve as a means of self-regulation has not been conclusively established by science. The observation itself—that dogs display such signals—is well documented; their function, however, is somewhat controversial.
Background and Academic Context
In one of the most frequently cited studies on stress physiology in dogs, Beerda et al. (1998) demonstrated that behaviors such as lip-licking, yawning, pawing, and excessive sniffing correlate with elevated cortisol levels. These signals are thus measurably linked to physiological stress.
The communicative function requires a more nuanced interpretation. Mariti et al. (2017) studied lip-licking and head-turning during dog-dog encounters and found that these signals occur more frequently in potentially conflict-prone situations—an indication of a communicative function. Other researchers (Bradshaw & Rooney 2017) urge caution: Rugaas’s list is based on observation and has not been systematically validated experimentally.
In practice, the following applies: Whether a signal is intended to "calm" or "regulate internal stress"—in either case, it is an indication of stress and should be taken seriously.
Vitomalia-Position
We use Rugaas’s concept as a practical introduction to the topic of canine body language, but we also provide a scientific framework for it. In our interpretation, calming signals in dogs are primarily early warning signs of stress—their function as a form of targeted communication is plausible, but not proven in all cases.
We recommend: Take signals seriously, assess the situation, and create distance if necessary. We advise against: over-extending the concept without considering the context. Licking the lips after Eat is usually a sign of digestion, not communication.
When do calming signals become relevant?
These signals become relevant in virtually all socially stressful situations: during encounters with other dogs, when interacting with strangers, at the veterinarian’s office, during high-pressure training, in conflicts within multi-dog households, and in everyday family life with children. Those who can read these signals can intervene early—before subtle stress escalates into growling or snapping (see Aggression in Dogs).
Practical application
- Learn to observe: Film your dog in typical situations and watch the clips slowly. Many signals last less than a second.
- Consider the context: Licking one’s lips after Eat is not the same as licking one’s lips when a strange dog approaches.
- Recognizing clusters: Individual signals are often ambiguous. A cluster (licking lips + turning away + sniffing) is a clear sign of stress.
- Response: Increase the distance, reduce triggers. Do not force the dog to stay.
- Reduce training intensity: If you notice many signs of fatigue during training, it means the intensity is too high. Take a step back.
Common Mistakes and Myths
- "My dog is yawning—he's tired." Sometimes. In a socially stressful context, yawning is very likely a sign of stress (Beerda et al. 1998).
- "Calming signals work the same way with people as they do with dogs." Dogs display these signals regardless of who they're directed at, but people usually don't pick up on them. This is a common source of conflict in family and child-rearing situations.
- "If my dog isn't calming down, everything's fine." No. Some dogs suppress early warning signs (due to genetic predisposition or learned behavior) and escalate immediately. The absence of these signs is not a reason to let your guard down.
- "Rugaas has proven her point." She has established a practical approach, but has not published any scientific studies. Empirical validation is still pending in some cases.
State of the art in 2026
It is well established that stress signals in dogs are real, correlate with cortisol levels, and should be interpreted as indicators of stress (Beerda et al. 1998, Hedges 2014). The question of which signals serve a specific communicative purpose and which are related to self-regulation remains open. Early experimental studies (Mariti et al. 2017) suggest that individual signals serve a communicative function in dog-dog interactions. Whether this applies to dog-human communication remains an open question. Calming signals in dogs are a useful practical concept, but not a fully scientifically validated system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which calming cues are the most important?
Particularly relevant in everyday life: licking lips, turning away, freezing up, sniffing at inappropriate moments, pawing, and shaking off tension. These behaviors often occur in clusters.
Do all dogs show calming signals?
The range varies from dog to dog. Some dogs are very expressive, while others are more reserved. Breed, socialization, and learning experiences all influence their repertoire.
What about dogs that can't show their faces?
With brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs) or heavily coated breeds, facial expressions are harder to read. In these cases, pay even closer attention to body language and context.
Would it help if I gave a reassuring signal myself?
There is no reliable evidence that humans "mimicking dogs" (yawning, turning away) calms the dog. A better approach is to reduce triggers and create distance.
Related terms
Sources and further reading
- Beerda, B., Schilder, M. B. H., van Hooff, J. A. R. A. M., et al. (1998). Behavioural, saliva cortisol and heart rate responses to different types of stimuli in dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 58(3–4), 365–381.
- Mariti, C., Falaschi, C., Zilocchi, M., Carlone, B., Gazzano, A. (2017). Analysis of the intraspecific visual communication in the domestic dog (Canis familiaris): A pilot study on the case of calming signals. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 18, 49–55.
- Rugaas, T. (2006). On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals (2nd ed.). Dogwise Publishing, Wenatchee, WA.
- Hedges, S. (2014). Practical Canine Behaviour: For Veterinary Nurses and Technicians. CABI Publishing, Wallingford.
- Bradshaw, J. W. S., & Rooney, N. (2017). Dog Social Behavior and Communication. In: Serpell, J. (Ed.) The Domestic Dog (2nd ed.), Cambridge University Press, 133–159.