Which of the following animal behaviors is likely a sign of submission?

Lifting legs or squatting is often associated with submissive behavior in animals, particularly in canines. This posture can indicate a lower status in a social hierarchy, as the animal may be showing deference to a more dominant individual. Such behaviors serve as non-verbal communication that indicate the animal is not a threat and is instead signaling its willingness to accept social rank and avoid confrontation.

In contrast, chasing other animals typically reflects dominance or playfulness rather than submission. Scratching the ground can be a way of marking territory or expressing anxiety, rather than a submission signal. Playing with objects is generally a playful behavior and does not convey submissiveness, but instead indicates curiosity or engagement with the environment. Thus, the lifting of legs or squatting is the most indicative of submission among the listed behaviors.