Which of the following is an appeasement body signal?

• A. Growl
• B. Turn away
• C. Stiff body
• D. Whale eye

Answer: (B)

Appeasement signals are ways a dog asks for space and to defuse tension without escalating things. Turning away fits this role perfectly: by shifting his gaze away and slightly retreating or presenting a softer, non-threatening posture, the dog communicates, “I don’t want trouble; please back off.” It’s a calm, conciliatory gesture that aims to reduce the other dog’s or person’s arousal so the situation can de-escalate.

In contrast, a growl is a boundary warning that signals potential threat if the other party doesn’t back off. A stiff body shows high arousal or readiness to defend itself, not a wish to avoid conflict. Whale eye—showing the whites of the eyes—often indicates fear or a defensive, cautious stance, which can precede aggression, not appeasement.