When we think of dogs, we usually envision our cuddly, warm furballs that never fail to brighten up the dreariest of our days. They’re friendly and trusting, and their smiles are some of the most precious things we can receive.

But no matter how behaved our beloved pets may be in our company, they may not be as comfortable with others as they are with their owners. It’s not surprising for a dog to tense up or attack when brought to an unfamiliar environment or exposed to noisy things.

With this in mind, you should take the time to understand what your dog is trying to tell you so you can avoid sudden aggression or fear issues. Read on for a few of the most common signs that not all in right in your pooch’s world.

(Photo by Francesca via Flickr Creative Commons)