Why you don't understand your dog's emotions

You might think that your dog clearly expresses its emotions to you through its gaze or posture.

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However, US research, published in the journal Anthrozoos, reveals that dog owners often misinterpret the true feelings of their four-legged friends.

Sitting comfortably at home, watching your dog, you might see them tilt their head, prick their ears and open their eyes wide. And all of that might lead you to believe that your dog is happy. But how can you be sure you're decoding their emotions correctly? What if, in reality, your own mood is influencing your perception?