Dog Tails: What They’re Trying to Say
It’s a popular misconception that dogs wag their tails to show they’re joyful and friendly, but this isn’t always the case.
Although a wagging tail does not necessarily signify “Come pet me!” Dogs do employ their tails to communicate.
The position and motion of a dog’s tail serve as a form of communication. A dog’s tail posture shows its emotional condition.
Why do dogs wag their tails?
Dogs communicate by wagging their tails. They wag their tails to express their emotions, much like other types of body language. But do you know what it says when a dog’s tail wags?
Have you ever wondered what your dog is trying to communicate? Here are some of the most frequent tail positions and what they may indicate.
Straight and Stiff Tail – Alert
If your dog’s tail is held straight back, it might indicate that they are on the alert. This posture, especially with perked ears and a quiet posture, might indicate that they’ve heard or seen something that has sparked their interest or alarmed them.
Straight and Relaxed Tail – Unsettled
If your dog’s tail is motionless and horizontal or almost horizontal, it just signifies they’re paying attention to what’s happening around them. When you see this, you’re looking at an animal who doesn’t want to miss a single second of the action in front of them.
Tucked Tail – Afraid
When a dog’s tail is lower than neutral, it’s usually a sign of submission. They’re declaring that they’re not a danger. Tucking the tail between the legs sends a stronger sense of uneasiness or dread. They might be crouching, shrinking, licking their lips, or turning over.
Fast Wagging Tail – Happy and Excited
The wagging of a tail is always a good indication. It indicates that your pet is happy with something they’re doing! Wagging is likely to be accompanied by other joyful bodily motions. They may start tapping their toes. Alternatively, they may lose control and begin shaking their entire bottom half!
Slow Wag in a Raised Position Tail – Confused
Have you ever seen your dog gently wag its tail when it’s lifted a little? Often, this implies that they’re perplexed! A slanted look and perky ears can be combined with the tail posture. They’re completely oblivious to what’s going on! The good news is that they aren’t afraid or enraged. Once your pet has a better understanding of things, but for now, it’s entirely harmless.
Slow and Stiff Tail – Ready to fight
Suppose a dog’s wag is slow, and the rest of his body is motionless. In that case, it might indicate that he’s nervous, apprehensive, or insecure, or it could indicate impending aggressiveness.
Relaxed Tail – Chill
This is the normal default position for a contented dog that is simply enjoying life.
Dogs are unable to express their feelings to you through speech. Dogs’ tails convey what their barks and eyes can’t, and they often say more than humans realize. Knowing how to read their tail posture can help you better address their needs and get them out of awkward circumstances.
