They growl, sneer and make every attempt to out show each other s fierceness. Usually, the lesser ranking wolf will give in before there is an actual encounter. To show subordination, the lesser ranking wolf will roll over on his or her back permitting the higher-ranking wolf to stand over them, reasserting their position as a more dominant animal. This behavior is more of a ritual than actual fighting and it almost never ends in serious injury. These dominance rules help to keep order within the pack and dissuade arguments before they escalate.
Wolves are, by nature, very shy creatures, avoiding all contact with humans if possible.
Most all of the beautiful photographs you see in books are taken at captive facilities. There are relatively few wildlife photographers who are afforded many opportunities to photograph wild wolves. Playful wolves will often bow and stretch out in front while swishing their tails and back ends up in the air. Anger or fear, may be shown by flattening their ears to their head and exposing their teeth, coupled with a low growl. Wolves have an excellent sense of smell.