June 16, 2025, 8:53 am | Read time: 4 minutes
As a dog owner, you may have come across this term: the T-position. It’s often interpreted on social media as a sign of dominance—but what does it really mean? PETBOOK consulted with dog trainer Katharina Marioth to find out: What does the T-position signify in dogs? When is it harmless, and when should owners intervene?
Anyone who deals with dog communication may have heard the term before. The T-position in dogs initially describes the position of two animals relative to each other. One stands in front of the other, limits it, and the two stand visually like the letter T.
Terms like dominance or aggression often come up in this context. But what is really behind it, and does the T-position also exist between dog and human, as some claim? Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains for PETBOOK what a true T-position is–and why it is indeed a part of aggressive behavior.
“A Frequently Misunderstood Topic
PETBOOK: Katharina, especially on social media, dog owners often come across the so-called T-position. What exactly is it and what does it have to do with dogs?
Katharina Marioth: “The T-position is an exciting and often misunderstood topic. It describes a body situation between two dogs: One dog stands frontally with its body center in front of another, so that–viewed from above–a T is formed. This behavior usually occurs in conflict situations and is part of what is called antagonistic behavior, a part of aggressive behavior. However, this does not automatically mean that the dog is aggressive–it is initially a completely normal means of communication, often for space limitation.”
How can I tell if it is really a T-position–or if the dog is just standing there?
“Good question! A true T-position is characterized by tension. Both dogs stand quietly, usually with closed mouths. The dog forming the top part of the ‘T’ often casts a slight sideways glance at the other. It is a threatening behavior, but it serves more to avoid conflict. Simply standing next to each other is not a T-position–even if this is often overinterpreted on social media.”
T-Position as Dominance Behavior?
And what about in everyday life–if a dog suddenly stands in front of a person, is that also a T-position?
“No, that should be viewed differently. If a dog just stands in front of you, it has nothing to do with the T-position. However, if it regularly blocks you, consciously limiting you, then it indicates a larger behavioral issue. At that point, you should seek professional support. The same applies if the dog frequently blocks other dogs.”
Some interpret the T-position as dominance behavior. What do you say to that?
“I often find this interpretation exaggerated. The dominance theory is outdated and has long been surpassed in modern professional circles. It’s more about how dogs communicate with each other–for example, to clarify: ‘This far and no further.’ It is a form of nonverbal coordination among dogs, not necessarily a power play.”
When should I intervene?
“If your dog regularly blocks–you or other dogs–you should definitely take a closer look. Then it’s time to have the behavior professionally analyzed. In general, if your dog behaves conspicuously often in a certain way, it’s always a good moment to consult an expert.”
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Significance of the T-Position in Dogs at a Glance
The T-position is a body language among dogs used in social or conflict situations.
Characteristics of the T-Position:
- One dog stands frontally (crosswise) in front of another–like the crossbar of a “T.”
- The dog forming the “T” usually looks slightly over at the other.
- Both dogs appear calm but tense.
- The mouths are closed, movements minimal.
- It is a threatening behavior to avoid conflict, not automatically aggression.
It Is Not a T-Position When:
- Dogs stand next to each other by chance.
- A dog only briefly stands in front of a person.
- No tension or communication is noticeable.
Meaning:
- Space limitation (“I don’t want you to go further”)
- Social clarification among males (e.g., hierarchy, sexual status)
- Communication instead of confrontation
You can see the entire interview with Katharina Marioth in the video.
About the Expert
Katharina Marioth is the founder of the brand Stadthundetraining and the KEML principle. She is a certified dog trainer and behavioral assessor for dangerous dogs in the state of Berlin. In her daily business, she works closely with veterinarians, scientists, and other specialists on the subject of dogs. With her knowledge and skills, she secured the title of Dog Trainer of the Year 2023 in the Sat.1 show “The Dog Trainer Champion.”