10. The Full-Body “Shake-Off” After Tension

You have likely seen your dog perform a wet-dog shake when stepping out of a bath. However, dogs also execute this full-body shake while completely dry immediately following a tense event.

For instance, dogs frequently shake off after an awkward greeting with an unfamiliar canine or after you trim their nails. It serves as a physiological reset button to discharge residual muscular tension.

When you see a shake-off, celebrate it as a positive sign that your dog is actively decompressing. Give them a moment of quiet before introducing another activity.