Which of the following is a recognized stress signal in dogs?

• A. Drooling
• B. Tail Wagging
• C. Play bow
• D. Yawning

Answer: (D)

Yawning in dogs is a recognized stress signal used to communicate discomfort or anxiety and to help diffuse tension in a situation. It isn’t just tiredness; in stressful interactions a dog may yawn to calm itself and to signal to others that the current level of arousal is too high and that it would appreciate space or a pause. You might see it during introductions, when a dog is restrained, or when a handler is pushing for proximity. Observing this alongside other cues like avoiding eye contact, lip licking, or a stiff body strengthens the interpretation that the dog is stressed. By contrast, drooling can accompany various states such as anticipation or nausea; tail wagging is ambiguous and can indicate friendliness, arousal, or unease depending on the context; a play bow signals a desire to play, not stress. So yawning is the clear stress signal among these options.