[brytlea]

I was taught years ago, that a lifted paw is a sign of stress (something to watch out for when training—perhaps the dog is getting concerned because they don’t understand what you want for instance). But, probably different experts have different opinions on that stuff. I know if I read 10 books on dogs I will find they all differ in some things. Fascinating creatures, however.

[Vendome]

My dog High 5’s me and I luv it!

I know, you are talking about the other thing. Stress.

[allmendream]

Assuming a submissive posture is a sign of stress or not understanding what the alpha wants. When under stress the dog looks to the alpha to correct the situation. I think that is why (good) dog trainers emphasize that you let your dog know who is calling the shots; they are much happier that way because they live in a world that they are not really capable of understanding and thus need to look to you as to where to go and what to do and who needs getting bit (hopefully nobody).