1. Observing Positive Body Language

Body language is one of the most reliable indicators of a dog’s feelings. When a dog is friendly toward other dogs, their body language will usually be relaxed and open, signaling their comfort and willingness to socialize.

1.1 Wagging Tail and Relaxed Posture

• Signs of Comfort: A relaxed, wagging tail is often a sign that a dog is in a friendly and approachable state. A neutral or slightly wagging tail indicates interest without aggression.
• Body at Ease: When dogs are friendly, their posture will be loose and non-threatening. They may stand tall or even lower their body slightly in a playful manner, indicating they’re comfortable and open to interaction.

1.2 Soft Ears and Calm Eyes

• Non-Aggressive Signals: Friendly dogs will usually have soft ears that are not pinned back, signaling calmness. Their eyes will be relaxed, without intense staring or squinting, which can be a sign of tension or aggression.
• Inviting Gaze: When a dog is friendly toward another dog, they often use a relaxed gaze to signal interest, without any signs of challenge or discomfort.

2. Playful Behavior During Interactions

Friendly dogs are often playful when interacting with other dogs. Playful behavior is a key sign that a dog is not only comfortable but also enjoys the company of other dogs.

2.1 Bouncing or Bowing

• Play Invitations: One of the most common ways dogs initiate play is by bowing — a stance where they lower their front legs while keeping their hind end up. This gesture invites the other dog to play and is often a sign of a friendly dog.
• Excited Play: Friendly dogs will often bounce, run, or engage in friendly chasing during interactions, demonstrating enthusiasm and interest in playtime.

2.2 Playful Barking or Exuberance

• Excitement and Fun: Friendly dogs often express excitement with playful barking, and they are likely to have a higher energy level during these interactions. This type of behavior indicates that the dog is happy, engaged, and enjoying the company of another dog.
• Non-Aggressive Tone: The barking of a friendly dog is typically high-pitched and not aggressive, and it’s often accompanied by tail wagging or playful movements.

3. Positive Socialization Experiences

A well-socialized dog is more likely to be friendly toward other dogs. Dogs that have had positive exposure to different breeds, environments, and situations during their early development are typically more adaptable and confident in their interactions.

3.1 Calm Behavior in New Environments

• Comfortable with Novelty: Dogs that are friendly toward other dogs often exhibit calm behavior even when encountering unfamiliar dogs or environments. They can handle new dogs at the dog park or during walks without becoming overly stressed or aggressive.
• Enjoying Group Play: Dogs that are comfortable with other dogs will generally enjoy group play and interactions in dog-friendly settings, indicating a friendly, confident personality.

3.2 Positive Experiences with Other Dogs

• Successful Past Interactions: If your dog has had successful experiences with other dogs in the past, they are more likely to approach new dogs with confidence. Positive past interactions foster a sense of trust and sociability.
• Friendly Greeting Behavior: A dog that has been socialized well will approach new dogs with a calm and friendly demeanor, often sniffing and wagging their tail without exhibiting dominant or fearful behaviors.

4. Signs of Comfort During Approaching

The way a dog behaves when another dog approaches can tell you a lot about their feelings. Friendly dogs will often signal that they are comfortable with the approaching dog and will behave accordingly.

4.1 Relaxed Approach and Tail Wagging

• Welcoming Signals: When your dog sees another dog, a friendly dog will typically approach with an upright, wagging tail and a calm demeanor. They won’t cower or try to escape; instead, they will move toward the other dog with a non-threatening attitude.
• Sniffing and Investigating: Sniffing is a natural behavior among dogs when meeting new dogs. A dog that is friendly will approach a new dog and sniff them in a relaxed, non-aggressive manner.

4.2 Calm and Non-Defensive Posture

• Open and Relaxed Body Language: When your dog is friendly toward another dog, their posture will remain open and non-defensive. They won’t appear tense or stiff, and their movements will be fluid rather than jerky or sudden.
• No Signs of Aggression: Friendly dogs will avoid growling, snapping, or baring their teeth, which are common signs of aggression. Instead, they will show relaxed body language as they meet other dogs.

5. Awareness of Play and Social Cues

Dogs are intuitive when it comes to reading social cues from other dogs. A dog that is friendly toward other dogs will be aware of the other dog’s cues and respond appropriately.

5.1 Recognizing Playful or Submissive Signals

• Understanding Play Signals: Friendly dogs are skilled at recognizing playful cues such as bowing or relaxed movements from other dogs. They respond in kind, often matching the energy level and play style.
• Respecting Boundaries: Dogs that are friendly toward other dogs also respect social boundaries, such as knowing when to back off if another dog shows disinterest or fear.

5.2 Adjusting Behavior to Avoid Conflict

• Reading Other Dogs’ Signals: Friendly dogs are adept at reading body language from other dogs and adjusting their behavior accordingly. If a dog signals that they want space or isn’t ready to interact, the friendly dog will respect these cues and avoid conflict.

6. Reassurance from the Owner or Handler

Dogs that are friendly toward other dogs often seek reassurance from their owners or handlers in new situations. This connection can help them stay calm and confident during interactions with other dogs.

6.1 Looking to Their Owner for Cues

• Trusting the Owner’s Lead: Friendly dogs often look to their owners for cues on how to behave in new situations. If their owner remains calm and encouraging, they will likely remain friendly and open to other dogs.
• Comfort from Familiarity: Dogs that are friendly toward other dogs will feel reassured by the presence of their owner, knowing they are in a safe environment and are free to interact confidently.

6.2 Positive Reinforcement During Interactions

• Rewarding Good Behavior: Owners can reinforce friendly behavior with praise or treats, which encourages their dog to continue being sociable with other dogs. Positive reinforcement helps maintain positive interactions with other dogs.

Conclusion: Recognizing Friendly Dogs

A dog that is friendly toward other dogs typically displays positive body language, enjoys playful interactions, and has been well-socialized. By recognizing these signs and providing supportive environments, you can help your dog develop and maintain friendly relationships with other dogs. Understanding how dogs communicate with each other helps ensure safe and enjoyable interactions, both for your dog and for others they meet.