Which of the following is a displacement behavior?

• A. Barking
• B. Wagging tail
• C. Yawning, lip licking, scratching
• D. Jumping

Answer: (C)

Displacement behaviors are self-directed, incongruent actions dogs show when they’re dealing with conflicting drives or high arousal. They act as a coping mechanism to relieve tension, not as deliberate communication about the immediate situation. Yawning, lip licking, and scratching are classic examples—typically observed when a dog is stressed or uncertain during training or in a challenging social scene. These behaviors provide a low‑intensity way to release tension and occupy the dog without directly addressing the stimulus.

Barking is a purposeful vocal signal used to alert, warn, or communicate something to a person or another dog, rather than a self-soothing response. Wagging the tail is a broad signal of arousal or emotion that can accompany many intents, not specifically a self-soothing action. Jumping is an attention‑getting or greeting behavior aimed at influencing the handler, not a coping mechanism for internal conflict. So the combination of yawning, lip licking, and scratching best fits displacement behavior, signaling the dog is trying to cope with stress in the moment. When you see it, consider reducing arousal and guiding the dog to a calm alternative, like a sit or down on a mat.