[military working dog]Airman 1st Class Kristine Legate / US Air Force / DVIDS * Service dogs have become more common in recent years, especially among veterans looking for therapy animals or a companion. * Service dogs are specially trained, but they still have thoughts and feelings, and it's pretty easy to figure out what they're trying to tell you if you pay attention to a few important things. * Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. Over the last several years, we've seen a significant increase in the number of veterans looking to service and therapy animals to aid them through daily life. These faithful companions help vets navigate through various environments, provide crucial emotional support, and retrieve beers from the fridge (we wish). Now, before anything else, let's answer the important question: Yes, you can still pet these animals as long as the owner gives you permission. Since our little buddies have thoughts and emotions just like us, they need to find a way to relay information. After a while, humans pick up on the little personality quirks that our furry friends put out there, like tapping the water bowl with a paw when they're thirsty or standing next to the door when it's time to pee. These tiny messages are easy to pick up if you're paying attention, but some other messages are so subtle that you need to be a dog whisperer to understand. So, to help you out, we've compiled a brief list of those important messages. You're welcome, doggos. 1. A SLOW TAIL WAG. Dmitry Kostyukov/Getty We've all seen a happy puppy quickly wag their tail when excited to see their owner. On the contrary, when a pup's tail slows down, it's not because they're tired — it's because you confused the s--- out of them. They don't know what you want them to do. Slow down and be clear with your commands. 2. A TUCKED TAIL. US Army While humans show emotion using their eyes, a dog shows it through their tail. If your service animal tucks their tail between their legs, it's a sign that they're nervous and afraid of feeling pain. 3. EARS UP OR FORWARD. US Army Dogs carefully examine new environments. When they're settling in and paying close attention, they'll shift their ears up and forward. SEE THE REST OF THE STORY AT BUSINESS INSIDER SEE ALSO: * Monty Python's Black Knight was based on a guy from ancient Greece * Here's what other global powers have at stake the standoff between the US and Iran * 5 things to know about the Navy's plans for unmanned missile boats SEE ALSO: MONTY PYTHON'S BLACK KNIGHT WAS BASED ON A GUY FROM ANCIENT GREECE
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