What is the purpose of a "calming signal" in dog behavior?

The purpose of a "calming signal" in dog behavior is primarily to communicate that they mean no harm and to reduce tension in social interactions. These signals are behaviors dogs use to convey that they are feeling anxious, stressed, or threatened and that they wish to alleviate conflict. By displaying calming signals, such as yawning, licking their lips, turning their heads away, or lying down, dogs can signal to other animals and humans that they seek a peaceful outcome rather than confrontation. This behavior is crucial for maintaining social harmony within groups of dogs and between dogs and humans, especially in situations that could escalate to aggression. Recognizing and understanding these signals can enhance human-dog relationships and improve training practices.