What defines an 'appeasement gesture' in dogs?

An appeasement gesture in dogs is defined as a behavior intended to calm another dog, which often includes actions such as lowering the head and tail, as well as showing submission to reduce tension. These gestures are crucial in canine communication, as they help to convey non-threatening intentions and maintain social harmony within groups of dogs.

By demonstrating such behaviors, a dog is indicating that it does not intend to challenge or confront the other dog, thus helping to avoid conflict. Such gestures show sensitivity to the emotional state of other dogs and are part of the complex language that dogs use to navigate social interactions. Therefore, recognizing and understanding appeasement gestures is an essential aspect of canine behavior and can lead to improved interactions between dogs and between dogs and humans.