Which of the following is a fear signal?

• A. A dog huddled by the wall
• B. A dog running toward you with a wagging tail
• C. A dog barking happily
• D. A dog sniffing the air confidently

Answer: (A)

Fear signals in dogs often show as a desire to retreat and minimize exposure. When a dog is afraid, it may press itself against a wall or lie close to a corner, using the wall as a refuge and keeping its body tucked in to feel safer. This behavior—huddling by the wall—reflects a clear attempt to withdraw from whatever is threatening, signaling fear to others nearby.

In contrast, the other situations convey different emotional states: approaching you with a wagging tail usually signals curiosity or friendliness, not fear; barking happily is a positive, excited vocalization; sniffing the air confidently suggests curiosity and self-assuredness.