Which of the following is a distance increasing signal?

• A. Wagging tail
• B. Lip licking
• C. Barking softly
• D. Rolling over

Answer: (B)

Distance increasing signals are cues a dog uses to ask for space and to defuse potential conflict. Lip licking fits this role because it’s a calm, appeasement gesture that communicates “I’m not a threat” and helps reduce tension. When a dog sees lip licking, it often cues the other dog or person to back off or give space, effectively increasing distance.

Wagging the tail usually signals friendliness or excitement rather than a desire to create distance. Barking softly can be a warning or alert, but it’s not primarily about signaling to keep away. Rolling over is a submissive gesture that invites closeness or soft interaction rather than distance.