Many breeders agree that the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), commonly — and wrongly — referred to as the “pit bull,” has got to be one of the smartest breeds in existence. Not only are they remarkably strong and spirited, the other thing you’ll notice right away is how your APBT focuses on you like a laser. He’s eager to read your every emotional nuance, and to learn anything you have to teach him. (Of course, since he’s a smart APBT, he’s also constantly checking to see if you’re still top dog.)

Ever noticed how when you say something to your APBT, he tries so hard to understand? It’s like magic — you utter some words, and his ears prick up. He cocks his head, and swivels his neck in the direction of your voice. And as often as not, when you take him for a walk, his ears rotate all the way back like miniature extras from The Exorcist, just to catch what you’re doing.

He really wants to decipher your words, and know where you’re coming from. Not only does your APBT marshal his considerable mental resources in hopes of understanding you, he also tries to talk back. But can you read his body language? Part of being a good dog owner is recognizing that canine/human communication is a two-way street.

Experts have pretty much determined that all our domestic dogs stem not from jackals or coyotes or any mixture thereof, but from wolves. And our modern dogs, from the tiny Pug to the mighty Mastiff, still speak the same language. Here are a few simple tips to help you understand your APBT’s way of “speaking” a little better:

1. If he wags and lowers his head at your approach, this is your APBT showing submission. (Enjoy it while it lasts.)

2. Does your APBT yawn a lot? Typically, this indicates that he’s nervous. If on top of his yawns, he also drools and pants, then you might have an extremely nervous pup on your hands.

3. A severely (an overly) submissive dog of any breed will lower his body and tuck in his rear, possibly even rolling over or urinating slightly.

4. If your dog is exposing his teeth and shows raised hackles, a square posture, and a direct and challenging stare, then you’re seeing the aggressive behavior and an outright bid for dominance, though in some dogs this may serve as a cover for their fear.

5. The language for “play with me” is universal among the canine set. It’s that distinctive posture with the rear in the air and elbows on the ground. It even has a fitting name — it’s classically called the “play-bow” position.