Waggle, Waggle, Waggle

Have you ever wondered why we dogs wag our tails? I like to wag mine 'round and 'round, but not all of us wag the same way.

When we are relaxed our tails are normally carried either horizontal or slightly downward, and in some breeds it many be relatively close to the hind legs and then curling up and away. When we carry our tails in this position we are signaling we are calm and relaxed, not feeling threatened and ready to do whatever is asked of us. Dogs that have normally high positioned tails like many of the terrier breeds will have their tail slightly lower and the "over-the-back-tail" breeds will have a relaxed and slightly flattened curl to the tail.

When we move our tail into a more elevated or horizontal position it signals an interest in something that is happening, but not a worry or concern. Dogs in training that are very focused on learning something new often have a slightly horizontal tail that is gently wagging, a signal they are concentrating but still content. Often dogs approach other dogs with this slightly elevated or straightened tail signaling "I am willing to be friendly if you are, but I can also protect myself".

If your dog normally carries his or her down to level and he or she is feeling threatened, showing dominance or establishing that they are the boss dog, the tail will be carried as high as possible and the hair is often very puffed out, making the tail look bigger. The tail is not wagging but rather is held very rigid. Often the hair along the spine is also bristled which serves to make the dog look bigger and more aggressive. In some breeds such as the working dogs, the aggressive posture may result in a more dramatic bend or upward swing to the tail when they are in the dominant or protective posture.

Dogs that are showing a slight amount of submission tend to carry their tails down close to our back ends with little or no upward curl. The hair is very flat on the tail and there is usually a slight bit of wagging, especially towards the tip of the tail. In extreme submission the tail is literally tucked between our legs. In some breeds the tail may even curl around the underside of the body. A tail that is flat against the body can also signal that the dog is ill or feeling unsure of the situation or environment.

Our tail ends can tell you a lot about what are front ends are thinking ! ARF !