Dog Calming Signal #1: Head Turning

What is Head Spin?

Head turning is one of the most important and common calming signals that dogs use in everyday communication. This signal was identified by Norwegian dog behavior expert Turid Rugaas and is the first in a list of 30 calming signals.

How to recognize this signal?

The head-turn signal manifests itself in two main ways:

• The dog turns its head to the side - this can be a small movement or a complete turn of the head to the side
• Avoids direct gaze - the dog deliberately looks away from what causes tension or anxiety

Why do dogs do this?

Head tilt is a dog's way of saying, "I'm not a threat" or "Please calm down." It's a calming signal that dogs use to:

• To avoid conflict with another dog
• When feeling uncomfortable or tense
• Trying to calm another dog or person
• Responding to a too direct approach
• When someone looks at them too intensely

When can you notice this signal?

You can most often notice head tilt in the following situations:

• When another dog approaches too directly or too quickly
• When a person bends over a dog or looks directly into its eyes
• When taking a photo - the dog turns its head away from the camera
• In a veterinary clinic or other stressful environment
• Meeting a strange dog or person

How should you react?

If you notice your dog using the head-turn signal:

• Respect his feelings - the dog is trying to tell you that he feels uncomfortable
• Reduce pressure - distract yourself from what causes stress
• Use this signal yourself - turn your head to the side when you want to calm a stressed dog.
• Avoid direct gaze - look to the side, not directly into the dog's eyes

Practical advice

Head turning is a subtle but very important signal. Learning to recognize it will help you better understand your dog's emotions and help him feel more secure in various situations. Remember - it is not disobedience or ignoring, it is a dog's way of communicating and managing stress.

This post is the first in a series about 30 calming signals identified by Turid Rugaas. Follow our blog to learn about the other signals!