I think it has to do with the flight or fight system in dog's as well as us humans when challenged by an opponent or put in a dangerous situation. Some refer to it as anxiety
It is the sign of a cur or that the dog is intimidated.
It is the sign the dog is amped, geeked-up, and wants to nail something.
It doesn't mean a damned thing, one way or the other.
I think it has to do with the flight or fight system in dog's as well as us humans when challenged by an opponent or put in a dangerous situation. Some refer to it as anxiety