Which of the following describes Baseline Posture in dogs?

• A. Tail up, head low, body stiff
• B. Normal body posture: tail down, head up, mouth relaxed, body not stiff
• C. Crouched and tensed
• D. Playful bow with wagging tail

Answer: (B)

Baseline Posture is a dog’s neutral, relaxed stance when nothing stressful or exciting is happening. It reflects comfort and a lack of immediate threat or arousal. The description that fits best is a normal, calm body: tail down, head up, mouth relaxed, and the body not stiff. This combination indicates the dog is at ease and attentive, not tense or reactive. Other postures signal states outside baseline: a stiff body with a tail up and head lowered points to heightened arousal or defensiveness, a crouched and tensed body suggests fear or guarding, and a playful bow with a wagging tail is a specific invitation to play, not a sustained neutral posture. Recognizing baseline helps you notice when a dog shifts toward stress, fear, or excitement, so you can respond in a way that keeps training and interactions safe and positive.