Fear or anxiety — Dogs

The story behind the answer

The dog shows fear or anxiety: its ears are pinned back, body lowered, tail tucked, and eyes wide with the whites visible (“whale eye”). The mouth may be closed tight or panting with the corners pulled back, and the dog leans or turns away—stress signals rather than play or aggression.

Dogs often offer “calming signals” before fight/flight, like lip-licking, yawning, freezing, and averting gaze. Recognizing these early cues prevents bites and builds trust. If you see them, don’t loom or reach over the head; turn sideways, give space, speak softly, and toss treats to create positive associations. Memory tip: FEAR = Flattened ears, Eye whites, Averted gaze, Retracted tail.