What is a common sign of fear in dogs?

Tail tucking or cowering is a classic indicator of fear in dogs. When a dog feels threatened or scared, it may tuck its tail between its legs and adopt a crouched posture, often trying to make itself appear smaller to avoid confrontation. This body language is a clear signal that the dog is feeling anxious or fearful.

Other behaviors, such as barking loudly or jumping up excitedly, typically indicate excitement or a desire for interaction rather than fear. While wagging the tail vigorously may seem like a sign of happiness or excitement, it can be misleading, as tail wagging can also occur in fearful situations depending on the context and other body language cues.